Home improvement is an industry that encompasses the sale of building materials, appliances, and decor for home use, as well as the services of contractors, tradespeople, and other workers who help to build, install, or modify homes or their components. It’s a vast and varied business, one that includes everything from fixing a leaky faucet to adding a room addition or even changing the entire layout of a house. No matter the scale of a project, many homeowners need some guidance along the way.
Whether you’re trying to save money by DIYing a home repair or improving your home’s value to sell it, it’s important to plan and execute projects wisely. Many DIYers have limited experience, and taking on too big of a project could lead to injury or costly mistakes.
That’s why it pays to get expert advice before beginning any home improvement project. Hiring a professional can cost more up front, but it will save you time and potential heartache down the road.
A great resource for finding home improvement experts is Gale OneFile, which features more than 4.5 million articles on topics such as architectural techniques, tool and material selection, and zoning requirements. Plus, the site’s advanced search tools, Topic Finder and InterLink make finding what you need easier than ever.
The best home improvements are those that increase a house’s functionality without blowing up the budget. A new kitchen or bathroom are good examples of upgrades that will pay off down the line when it comes time to sell. Other popular options include repainting, refinishing wood floors, and installing a home security system.
But it’s important to remember that not every home improvement will add value. In fact, many remodeling projects don’t even recoup their costs, according to NerdWallet’s research. The key is to carefully choose projects that are in line with your lifestyle and the home’s overall style, rather than aiming for top-of-the-line features that will appeal only to a narrow segment of the market.
When it’s all said and done, a well-maintained and updated home is one that will provide years of comfort and enjoyment for its residents. Then, when the time comes to sell, it will be a welcoming and attractive option for prospective buyers.
But it’s crucial to plan carefully and stay within your budget to avoid costly mistakes. And as you complete each project, don’t forget to update your home insurance. After all, your renovations may raise the value of your house, and your old policy might not offer enough coverage. So plan your next home improvement with confidence—with the help of these expert tips. And don’t forget to shop around for the best home insurance rates!
