Home improvement is a process in which homeowners make repairs, remodels or renovations to their homes. It includes everything from minor cosmetic changes to large-scale remodeling projects that involve reworking entire sections of a property. It can be a great way to increase the value of your home.
When deciding on whether to undertake a project, it’s important to consider the benefits and drawbacks of different options. For instance, if you’re a first-time homeowner, it may be more cost-effective to hire a professional to handle the work. On the other hand, if you’re a seasoned DIYer with plenty of experience, then you might choose to do it yourself.
Choosing the Right Home Improvement Contractor
While home improvement contractors range widely in prices, their level of expertise and quality of workmanship can also vary. It’s important to choose a firm with a proven track record and good reputation. This will help ensure that you get the job done properly and that you don’t end up with a poorly executed project or a completed project that isn’t what you expected.
The 2021 American Housing Survey found that, on average, homeowners spent $624 billion on home repair and improvements in a two-year period. This represents a massive jump in spending, up from about $300 billion just a decade ago.
One reason why the amount of money spent on home repairs and improvements has jumped so significantly is that more Americans are staying put than buying new homes. The rising cost of mortgages, a downturn in the housing market and the increasing threat of disasters have made it difficult for many people to afford to move out of their current home.
A key home improvement trend in 2023 is repairing and renovating existing homes. This is not just about ensuring your house is safe and sound for you and your family to live in, but also about giving it a more appealing aesthetic.
For instance, adding a fresh coat of paint to a bathroom or kitchen can make it more enjoyable for you to live in. It can also make it more appealing to potential buyers if you decide to sell your house.
While some home improvements can be expensive and time-consuming, other projects – like painting or refinishing your hardwood floors – can be relatively inexpensive. And they’re a good way to add a fresh, clean feel to your home without breaking the bank.
Installing crown molding is another surprisingly affordable and easy DIY project that can add character to any room. All you need is a little woodworking skill and the right tools, as well as a nail gun to attach the decorative strips to the wall.
Re-grouting tile is another inexpensive and easy DIY project that can increase the look of your home. You can re-grout your own tile or purchase a kit from a home improvement store.
Replacing your windows is another surprisingly low-cost project that will have a big impact on your home’s appearance. The addition of new windows will improve your home’s energy efficiency and reduce your heating and cooling costs in the long run.