Call it the Big Bang Theory of home improvement: It's not always the high-cost projects that yield the best value

Yes, you can remodel your kitchen, add a room, put in a Jacuzzi or completely upgrade all your bathrooms. Those projects certainly will add value to your home. But longtime Realtors know that it's the little things that improve curb appeal and enhance first impressions -- how about a nice coat of paint? -- that pay off the most for home owners. My story for U-T San Diego's Home & Garden section: http://www.utsandiego.com/news/2013/apr/11/big-bang-theory/