What Is Home Improvement?
Home improvement refers to work that is done on a residential property, with the goal of increasing its value and comfort. This includes maintenance and repair, as well as projects that improve the outside of a house or add space by adding on an addition. Some examples of home improvements include installing a new roof, putting in a new kitchen or bathroom and putting up a fence.
A home renovation is a big financial commitment, so it’s smart to save up a chunk of cash for the project. This can take longer than using a credit card, but it’s the safest way to make a major upgrade. You should also check to see if your project qualifies for any rebates or discounts offered by local or federal government programs.
While a sparkling bathroom overhaul and an updated kitchen can boost your resale value, other high-profile home upgrades—like a master suite or an extra bedroom—typically don’t deliver a great return on investment, according to the latest Cost vs. Value report from Zonda.
To make sure you’re getting the best possible value for your money, talk to a real estate agent before starting any work. They’ll be able to give you tips on which renovations will add the most value and which ones to avoid. They’ll also be able to recommend contractors with the most experience in your area. Before hiring any contractors, you should always check their credentials and business references to ensure they’re licensed and insured. In addition, homeowners should look for a contract that has their name and MHIC license number preprinted on it.