Despite a slow market and a slight decrease in the resale value of most remodeling projects, the smartest home improvement investments may also be some of the least expensive. Results from the 2009 Remodeling Cost vs. Value Report show that small-scale exterior projects are the most profitable at resale. On a national level, eight out of the top 10 projects in terms of costs recouped were exterior replacement projects that cost less than $14,000.

The annual survey is conducted through a partnership with Remodeling Magazine and REALTOR® Magazine, and is based on value estimates provided by REALTORS® around the country. Read the full report.