$3000

My wife and I sold our car today. The cash value is $3000. I suggested we put the payment towards our house to build up the equity in the home. She wasn't thrilled by the idea, but a house is usually a family's highest debt.

The long term choice is putting the money into the house, but the short term is buying something that leads to instant gratification. My wife would prefer a deck, fencing or another dog. I like the prospect of the deck, but does a deck add value to the house?

I did a Google search and found out that decks do add some value to homes. But, would that value be $3000? The simplest website I found was on MSNBC http://realestate.msn.com/article.aspx?cp-documentid=16613127.

While I do envision myself with a nice new deck and entertaining guests, we can always use equity down the road for an addition and a deck. We have a tough decision. Anyone out there have any ideas?