Americans will spend nearly $233 billion on home remodeling this year, according to the National Association of Home Builders’ 2007 industry forecast.

That represents a 1.9 percent increase from the record $228 billion spent in 2006, according to U.S. Census Bureau estimates.

All home remodeling projects are not equal. Which projects are the best ones for those looking for a solid return on their investment and higher profits come selling day? Here are some ways to add value to your home.

• A home office remodel.

Home offices are becoming less of a luxury and more of a necessity with more people telecommuting. The number of Americans that work from home is in the millions and that number has continued to grow every year. With many companies cutting costs and becoming more aware of their carbon footprints, telecommuting has become a viable solution for many in the working world. Makins sure that your home office has a state-of-the-art space for potential teleworkers is a surefire way to increase your home’s value.

• Renovate or add a family room.

With open floor plans becoming more in demand, a family room is an excellent way to make existing homes more like new construction. Rembember, it’s a good idea to keep in mind what homes in your area are like. People like to purchase homes that blend with other homes around them. Chances are you’ll find many of your neighbors are investing in family rooms as well.

• Replace the roof.

The roof is one of the first impressions people have of a home. Make sure yours passes the test by replacing an old roof. You also change the character of your home by looking into architecturally-styled roofing tiles.

• Landscape your yard.

Along the same lines of thinking as the roof, landscaping can give a great – or not so great – first impression. Backyard landscaping can transform ordinary spaces into incredible entertaining areas by including elegant water features and lush plants. Consider your area’s climate. If you live in an area that receives temperate weather year-round, you’ll find that your landscaped yard adds value to your home and increases your living space.

• Replace old windows.

Thirty percent of a home’s energy is lost through its windows. Replacing old wondows with energy-efficient versions signals to home buyers that you really care about the house and reflects the quality of the house as a whole. Plus, who doesn’t like to save money on energy bills?

• Paint, paint, paint

Enough said. But remember to hire a professional if you need help and keep the colors neutral if you’re looking to sell. Nothing looks worse than a poorly-done paint job in bright fuchsia.

• Remodel your kitchen.

Small changes can result in big value. Upgrading appliances, door handles and painting tired walls can add new life to your kitchen, and add value to your home. The general rule when doing a remodel is not to overdo it. That is unless it’s a kitchen. Kitchens sell a home, and in this case, size does matter. But a kitchen remodel is a long-term ivestment; you’ll see payback 10 years down the road. And know you limits when it comes to DIYers. Sometimes doing it yourself can save money, but always bring in a professional for the big jobs.

• Remodel or add a bathroom.

A bathroom remodel can often mean simply making the most of your current space by upgrading fixtures, flooring and lighting. Have a little more money in the budget? Adding a bathroom is a great way to add value to your home.

Is your only bathroom upstairs and not convenient for dinner guests? Often the area under a set of stairs is the perfect place for a powder room.

From the Enterprise (Alabama) Ledger