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Remodeling school
It took a year, but Erika and Greg Tansey got the house they wanted, doubled its value and gained some hard-won insight into the rules of renovation along the way. By Sarah Max, Money Magazine
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BY THE NUMBERS
The finish line
The final remodeling cost, with landscaping, came to $280,000 for a total of $726,000. "We had a crazy year but we love our house," says Erika. And they've made money, at least on paper. Based on comparables, local real estate agent Trista Nelson values the house at $980,000.

We wouldn't have been able to afford a house nearly so nice if we hadn't remodeled," says Greg. He and Erika are now planning their next project: a relaxing family vacation.
Five teardowns Houses don't have to be falling down to be candidates for tearing down. (more)
Million dollar homes Our quarterly look at what 6 zeros will get you. (more)
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