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Generally speaking, improvements that increase the market value of a property will increase the appraiser's estimated market value.  The following are typical improvement that will increase the estimated value of your property:

• Added rooms or garages
• Substantial moderization of kitchens or baths
• Central air conditioning
• Fireplaces
• Decks
• Extensive remodeling

New paint, professionally done neutral decor, and landscaping are often cited as ways to increase your listing price if you are selling.  I've seen it happen.  Although it may not effect the appraised price of your home, it doesn't hurt. 

Remember, if you are remodeling or fixing up the house for resale, keep things neutral.  This may insure that a greater number of people will like the new rooms, etc.  If you plan on staying for awhile, go ahead and paint that bathroom red!  

Some improvements don't necessarily add to your homes value.  New water heater, roof, porches or steps, plumbing or electrical.  Homes are supposed to have these in working order.  Again, however, a combination of these all done at once can be attractive to a buyer and can improve the price you get for a home you are selling.