Stonework Becomes a Real Estate Investment

Throughout our area the increase in custom stonework over the past several years can be directly related to the increase in the housing market. “Curb appeal” and “house flipping” have become two terms that go hand and hand and now “stonework” can be placed right in between.

Stonework, much like new hardwood floors, tiled bathrooms, renovated kitchens, upgraded utilities, and a new roof, has become a focal point in any real estate sale. The proof is in the listings themselves. If there is any stonework on the property it is always mentioned. When once it was swimming pools and treated decks that would catch the buyer’s attention, now its stone fireplaces and bluestone patios.

Traditionally, homeowners rarely recognized the direct relationship between stonework improvements and an investment because they have no plans of selling after having this work done. They would rather enjoy the craftsmanship for several years, if not for the rest of their lives. But keep in mind, the investment is still there no matter if they decided to sell in 2 years or 15 years.

It is no surprise that an upgrade to your home should bring more value during time of sale, but it is surprising that custom stonework holds its value much longer then other popular upgrades. As years go on, a new roof slowly becomes no longer new, and that furnace you got in 1997, yeah…10 years old already. But stonework however, will hold its value, as it becomes more weathered and seasoned. We can not say the same for the treated decking and shag carpeting.

Recently homeowners, contractors and other real estate investors have caught on to this relationship between stonework and a profitable investment as “stonework” improves “curb appeal” which ultimately results in a profitable “house flipping.”

The stonework/investment relationship is not “set in stone” but in my experience what you spend on stonework at your home will have a value of 1-1/2 to 2 times the construction cost during the time of sale. That’s a good investment on anything. Plus, you can enjoy your investment for years to come.

Forest Darder
Darder Stone Works
(845) 744-6642
Please visit our gallery at:
www.darderstoneworks.com