Wow, that's a pleasant surprise. My house appraised for about $40,000 more than I thought it would. 3,000 more dollars and it would have been twice what I paid for it seven years ago; not a bad return. Although I do know that it's only worth that much if someone is willing to pay for it.

I've started the list of things to do with the money I'm pulling out. In the master bedroom: walk-in closet; bathroom door (and a wall for it to hang in); hardwood floors; new furniture and paint. Upstairs: fix wall (drywall tape is funky); paint; new carpeting; furniture. Outside: Trex front porch; gardener. I probably only have enough money for two of those things...doesn't hurt to dream.