Home improvement is a term used to describe upgrades and renovations that are made to an existing residential dwelling. This includes both interior and exterior improvements. The improvements can be as minor as updating bathroom and kitchen fixtures to as major as adding rooms or extending the house.
This industry consists of contractors, retailers who sell building materials and suppliers to help make improvements. It also includes the laborers who perform those improvements. Home improvement is a multibillion dollar industry that benefited greatly during the COVID-19 pandemic with homeowners investing in home renovations and repairs. The industry will begin to slow down in 2024, however, due to continuing economic and housing market issues.
Most improvements are completed by professional contractors, but many can be done by the homeowner themselves. The costs of some home improvement projects can be high, but the payoff in terms of increased comfort and safety can be worth it for many people. Moreover, these projects often increase the value of the property, making them an excellent investment option.
A popular way to improve the look of a home is to paint or stain its surfaces. Other popular improvements include replacing flooring, refinishing woodwork, installing new fixtures and appliances, adding landscaping, and constructing decks and fences. Homeowners often hire professionals to do these tasks, but those who are skilled with tools can save money by completing the work themselves.
Homeowners typically invest in home improvements to make their living spaces more comfortable and safe. The return on investment for these projects can vary significantly, however. It is important to understand how much a project will add to your home’s value before beginning it.
Remodeling projects that add living space are the most popular with homeowners, according to the National Association of Realtors. They are also the most likely to increase a home’s resale value. This type of project is usually done to accommodate a growing family.
One way to ensure that your home improvement project will increase its value is by choosing materials and finishes that are in line with other homes in the neighborhood. Another way to protect your investment is by hiring a licensed contractor. This ensures that the contractor has the necessary qualifications and insurance to complete the work.
In addition, it is a good idea to avoid over-improving your home. It can be difficult to recoup the cost of expensive upgrades when you sell the house. For this reason, it is best to invest in improvements that are more practical and will appeal to a wide range of buyers.
