Upgrades to your first floor

These small changes could add resale value to your home, and make you happier.

4 of 11

4. Living room: Hide the TV

The more TV you watch, found researchers at Rutgers and the University of Illinois, the more you overestimate the affluence of other people -- with the result that you become less happy. Conceal the screen in a cabinet (or mount it on the wall behind a sliding panel) and you'll be less likely to turn it on.

Cost: About $500 for a pro to build a sliding panel

NEXT: Living room: Let the sun in

Last updated March 26 2010: 3:36 PM ET

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