Home improvement is any work done on a house to make it better, such as remodeling an outdated kitchen or adding a bathroom. It also includes gardening, lawn care, painting, resurfacing pavement and driveways, installing fences, decks, and porches, and any other work that makes your house more comfortable and attractive.
Many homeowners spend thousands of dollars upgrading their homes in the hopes that it will add value when they sell. However, the resale value of your home can be significantly affected by the type of renovations you choose, so it is important to understand what kinds of improvements will add value before diving in with your sledgehammer.
According to the contractor search website Home Advisor, some of the most popular projects homeowners are undertaking include sparkling bathroom overhauls, basement remodels, and kitchen makeovers. Unfortunately, these large-scale renovations tend to offer the lowest return on investment when it comes to listing your home for sale.
On the other hand, smaller-scale DIY projects can have a huge impact on the value of your house. Painting, re-grouting tile, and power washing the exterior of your home are inexpensive and easy ways to improve your home’s curb appeal. Before hiring a contractor, be sure to get multiple estimates and make a list of the work you need done. This will help you negotiate prices, prevent misunderstandings, and ferret out unscrupulous contractors who may try to add on extra work that isn’t necessarily necessary. Also, remember to update your home insurance policy after making any major upgrades.