Some homeowners sink money into improvements and remodeling because they love to see the fruits of their own labor while others do it simply to make their home the stuff of their dreams.

Then there are those with a profit motive. How can they put money into their home, enjoy the fruits of that expense and get their money back -- and maybe even more -- when they sell?

Simply put, some projects pay off  better than others and much of it depends on which part of the country you live in -- a result of many factors, including the cost of labor, the cost of materials, the general economy and that old standby, supply and demand.

An excellent source of data is the annual Cost vs. Value Report, from Remodeling magazine and Remodeling Online, comparing construction costs with resale value for 25 common remodeling projects in 60 U.S. markets.

Here is a summary of that report with the 25 midrange and upscale projects broken down into 10 geographic areas.

Home improvement costs	South Atlantic Mid-Atlantic New England East North Central East South Central West North Central West South Central Mountain Pacific
Range Project National average South Atlantic Midrange Master suite addition $94,331 $84,883 Bathroom remodel $12,918 $11,778 Major kitchen remodel $54,241 $50,860 Minor kitchen remodel $17,928 $17,095 Deck $14,728 $13,975 Family room addition $74,890 $67,797 Upscale Bathroom remodel $38,165 $35,212 Major kitchen remodel $107,973 $103,529