Housing Market Boosts Home Improvements (NAPSA)—It seems there’s no place like home to ride out a slumping housing market. That’s the word from trend watchers who say more homeowners are opting to stay put and make small improvements rather than sell, to make their homes more comfortable as they ride out the real estate market. This “feathering of the nest,” as Realtors call it, doesn’t just make your home a better place to be, it could make it more valuable as well. Indeed, homeowners who undergo a minor kitchen remodeling job see an average return of investment of 83 percent, while those who endure a major overhaul usually recoup just over 78 percent of their cash, according to Remodeling Magazine and REALTOR Magazine. So where should you focus your “feathering”? You might start by cooking up ideas in the kitchen. It’s one of the most frequently used rooms in the house, and new types of products and appliances let you make over the space without major modifications. For instance, something as simple as swapping out your current hardware can add flair to the kitchen. Replacing old drawer handles, along with cabinet hardware, faucets and even doorknobs, can be a quick way to addstyle and detail to a room. Pair the new hardware with a quick coat of paint and you’ve got an entirely fresh look. For a more dramatic effect, upgrade your full suite of major appliances. Viking Range Corporation offers an array of commercial-style products for the A kitchen makeover can be a quick way to add value and com- fort to your home. homethat will instantly give the kitchen a face-lift. The full Viking product line includes everything from a new Custom Series Range to make a particularly impressive statement, to a complete kitchen overhaul with the 30-inch wide range, convection microwave hood, dishwasher and freestanding refrigerator. You can easily create a new and improved kitchen without redoing countertops or cabinetry. Want to add a little more of your personal taste to your kitchen? Viking has also expanded its color palette. There are now 24 finishes to meet everyone’s personal taste. From Racing Red to Chocolate, your kitchen can make a statementof its own. For more information, visit www.vikingrange.com.
