Home improvement is the renovation of residential real estate, such as changing a kitchen or bathroom, adding an extension, or building a fence. Some projects are minor, such as painting a room or replacing light bulbs, while others are major, such as adding a new roof or remodeling a kitchen or bathroom. Some of these projects are DIY, but most require a professional contractor and specialized equipment.
Some homeowners may choose to renovate their homes for purely aesthetic reasons, while others do it to increase the value of their property or to make the house more suitable for their growing family. Still, other homeowners have no choice but to undertake a renovation due to an emergency, such as a leaking roof or flooded basement. Whatever the reason, a renovation is usually an expensive undertaking, so it’s important to be clear on your goals and plan carefully.
Television home improvement shows, such as Bob Vila’s This Old House and Fixer Upper, have helped to fuel interest in this industry. However, it is one thing to watch a TV show and another to actually complete a project. For many homeowners, the end result is not as satisfying as it looks on television. This is partly because many people overestimate how much it will cost to complete a project and then go into debt as a result.
The most popular home improvements include sparkling bathroom overhauls, a new garage door and kitchen renovations. But these types of upgrades rarely deliver the highest return on investment, according to a recent report from Zonda Media. In fact, a homeowner might only get back about 60% of their money on the average kitchen or basement remodel.
There are a few things that are certain in life: death, taxes and home renovations. No matter how much you try to avoid them, there are always tasks that need to be done, like repairing a leaky roof or unclogging a drain. While these projects aren’t the most fun, they must be completed to keep your home in good condition.
Other common home improvement projects that have a high ROI include adding a garage or workshop, updating the kitchen or bathroom and installing hardwood floors. It’s also a good idea to invest in energy-efficient appliances, as these will save you money on your utility bills. But before you decide on a project, be sure to discuss it with a professional and consider your options carefully. It is also important to hire a licensed and insured contractor. Those in the home improvement business are required to pass a background check and be screened for serious criminal convictions before they can work on your property. In addition, all contracts for home improvement must be written and signed before any work is performed. Ideally, the contract will contain an outline of the work to be performed, dates when it will begin and end, and the total contract price. It should also specify the type and brand of materials to be used.