Home improvement, or home renovation, is the process of improving the interior or exterior of a house. The term can also refer to the remodeling or repairing of commercial buildings or to nonpermanent construction, such as fences and landscaping. Home improvement can be done for a variety of reasons, including adding or improving on the existing structure, making it energy-efficient, or simply updating the look and feel. The home improvement industry, which encompasses the sale of building materials, appliances and decor for the purpose of remodeling, has seen excellent growth results in recent years.
For many homeowners, upgrading their homes is a top priority. It’s an opportunity to improve the look and feel of their residence while possibly increasing its value. Those interested in tackling a home improvement project may be confused about where to start. Fortunately, there are a multitude of do-it-yourself (DIY) projects that can be accomplished with minimal time and money.
A quick way to increase your home’s curb appeal is by sprucing up the landscaping. This simple, cost-effective project can instantly make your house look newer and fresher. Moreover, if you’re planning to sell your home in the near future, a well-kept yard and some colorful flowers are essential for attracting buyers.
While home improvements can be great investments, it’s important to choose wisely. Some projects may actually lower your home’s resale value, or even result in costly mistakes. For example, installing an exotic light fixture may please you, but it’s unlikely to impress prospective buyers. Therefore, it’s best to stick to the basics and select more neutral fixtures.
Some of the most popular projects homeowners undertake include sparkling bathroom overhauls and kitchen remodels. Unfortunately, these projects rarely return their full investment, according to the latest Cost vs. Value report by Zonda Media.
A common mistake people make when it comes to home improvements is choosing the wrong contractors. Make sure you do your research and check with friends and neighbors for recommendations, and always request references before hiring a contractor. Additionally, if you’re thinking of selling your home in the near future, speak with a real estate professional before undertaking any major renovations.
Lastly, don’t go into debt to finance your home improvement project. That’s a bad idea for a number of reasons, not the least of which is that you don’t own all those shiny new upgrades—the bank does. Instead, opt for a credit card with an introductory 0% APR offer to finance your mini-makeovers and save on interest charges.
From fixing a leaky roof to refreshing the paint on your front door, there are countless ways to enhance your home’s appearance without blowing your budget. But before you get out your hammer, be sure to read this article for tips on navigating the world of DIY home improvements.