You may be considering home improvement, but what steps should you take before you start? These tips are designed to help you plan the project, determine costs, hire contractors, and maximize your investment. While most people believe that they are capable of undertaking a home improvement project, many people are unsure of their capabilities. Home Depot reassures its customers that they can do the project themselves. Home improvement television shows appeal to American homeowners who don’t have the time or the expertise to complete certain projects.
Planning
While the fourth quarter traditionally sees low activity levels, 76% of homeowners plan to undertake a home improvement project in 2020. This is tied with the highest planning rate in the survey’s history. This increase in Q4 activity may be a result of carryover demand from the housing market in 2020, or it could be related to the economy. Whatever the case, it’s still best to plan ahead so you can avoid major headaches down the line.
Depending on the size of your project, you may need the assistance of an architect or a designer. You can also work with design-build companies or an independent architectural designer to guide you through the process. Before beginning your project, be sure to have complete plans in order to obtain a building permit. Also, have a general idea of what kind of finish materials you want to use. Once you have a clear picture of the scope, you can proceed to the next step of the project.
Costs
Whether you are planning to add a new deck, install a wood floor, or replace the stair railings, you should budget for the costs of your home improvement project. You may not be able to cover every aspect of the project, but you should consider the general costs and estimate savings, which can give you the motivation to complete the job. Listed below are the costs of home improvement projects. A little research will go a long way!
Using surveys can help you estimate your home’s value. DIY home improvement projects can boost the value of your property. It can range from small bathroom updates to major kitchen makeovers. You may want to consult a contractor or realtor to help you plan your project. Investing in energy efficiency upgrades will save you money on utility costs. Energy-efficient upgrades can save you money on materials and also lower utility bills. Investing in better insulation and upgraded windows can make a difference in lowering your monthly utility bills.
Contractors
Before hiring a home improvement contractor, research their background and credentials. Ask them for proof of business licenses, and if necessary, check with the state licensing agency. You can also search for them through the Better Business Bureau or state’s Office of Public Safety and Inspections. Consumers should read reviews and check references. If the contractor has complaints, be wary and don’t hire them until you have verified their credentials. The best way to find out whether the contractor is trustworthy is to check with previous clients and check with local regulatory agencies.
The law requires that home improvement contractors provide written contracts to homeowners, which help protect both parties. This contract lays out the work to be done, the estimated cost, and payment dates. A contract is required by law if the price is $1,000 or more. If a contractor fails to provide a written contract, their registration may be suspended, fined, or even criminally prosecuted. Moreover, Connecticut requires that contractors sign contracts and invoice their clients in writing.
Return on investment
When it comes to calculating the return on investment of your home improvement projects, timing is of the essence. While luxury kitchen materials are popular with today’s homebuyers, they may not be appreciated by future buyers. Other renovations are based on current trends, while others may be merely cosmetic. For example, replacing the garage door or adding manufactured stone veneer may increase your home’s resale value, but they don’t add much in terms of functionality.
The ROI of a home improvement project measures how much money you spent on the project compared to the resale value of your home. Certain expenses increase the marketability of your home, while others have little or no impact on its resale value. In general, the goal is to increase the resale value of your home by at least as much as the project’s cost. The ROI of home improvement projects is a vital component of real estate investing.