Home Improvement – Boosting Your Home’s Value
Home improvement is the repair, maintenance or remodeling of residential real property. It includes kitchen and bathroom renovations, adding rooms or spaces and other changes to the existing living space. Home improvements can also include improving energy efficiency and increasing safety, repairing damage or simply making the home more attractive or livable.
A well-planned home improvement project can increase your comfort and enjoyment of your home while possibly boosting its value when it comes time to sell. But before you jump into a DIY project, it’s important to understand the difference between what types of projects will add value and those that won’t.
Getting the best possible returns on your home improvements means doing research and careful planning. And it’s always a good idea to get multiple estimates before hiring someone for any work. Price isn’t the only factor to consider, and contractors vary in their ability to finish a job on time and within budget.
There are a variety of home improvement contractors to choose from, and they range from national, regional or local chain stores with their own departments to independent firms that specialize in specific types of jobs. These firms typically have a permanent business location, stand behind their work and warranty it, and may be easier to find in an emergency. However, these firms can be more expensive than independent contractors. Regardless of which contractor you hire, the contract should clearly state the scope of the work and materials to be used.