I see two interesting thing happening in this economy. First, buyers want to get the most house for their money (that never changes) even if it needs some cosmetic work. Second, homeowners are improving their space because they plan to stay a little longer; and they don't want to over improve ahead of the market.

Here is one place to get bang-for-your-buck...the fireplace.

http://animoto.com/play/s753AKG2azTtIfuhAduExA

Redoing the firplace not only... Show more