Home improvement involves a wide range of projects, including renovating, remodeling and repairing the exterior and interior of your house, and can also include making additions and improving the energy efficiency of your home. Many home improvement projects are easy enough to do yourself and will add value to your home if you are planning to sell.
However, if you are going to hire contractors, it is important to find reputable and reliable professionals. Be sure to compare the price, experience and reputation of each contractor. You should also consider the level of communication and how they will respond to your questions and concerns.
When selecting a contractor for a home improvement project, it is important to get several estimates. The estimates should be written and detailed, including a timeline for the work to be completed, a payment schedule (including any down payments and incremental payments) and as many specifics about the job as possible (e.g., type and brand of materials to be used). The contract should also specify that the contractor will withhold final payment until all required inspections and certificates of occupancy are obtained.
According to the Joint Center for Housing Studies of Harvard University, homeowner spending on home improvement projects has been on the rise in recent years. This article will explore trends, statistics and industry predictions for this booming sector of the economy.
The American Housing Survey (AHS) collects data from homeowners on a variety of home improvement projects. AHS interviewers ask respondents to report what improvements they have made to their homes in the past two years. This data is helpful because it gives an indication of what renovations are popular among homeowners.
Some common home improvement projects include replacing outdated appliances, painting, re-grouting tile and power washing the outside of your home. Although these upgrades are not as dramatic as a new kitchen or bathroom, they can still add a significant amount of value to your home.
Many people also choose to improve their home in order to make it more functional for their family. This may include adding a laundry room, an extra bedroom or even a pool. In general, these improvements are a good idea as long as they don’t decrease the usable space in your home or increase your maintenance costs.
If you are considering a major home improvement, it is a good idea to talk to a realtor in your area about which projects will be worth the investment. They can also provide you with tips on choosing quality contractors and help you avoid costly mistakes. Remember, a well-planned project can save you time and money in the long run.