why fix up anything when we can't recoup costs?

[Bruce M.]

I'm not sure I get it...it seems that there are very few things we can do that actually add value to a fix up project. It seems painting gets the highest rate of return for the cost involved. So why are all these flipping sites and books having us upgrade bathrooms and kitchens and all sorts of stuff if we won't even recoup the costs of these projects? I've looked at many sites that show you what improvements provide the greatest return and there just aren't many improvements that bring in value. Cleaning up the place seems to be the best.

So is the only reason people do all these fixups is because they can't sell the places 'as is' ? What am I missing here . I know this may sound like a stupid question to most but I just don't understand.

Thanks

Bruce