Home Improvement Basics
Home improvement can be a fun and rewarding project, but it’s important to understand the basics of home repairs before you start. This will help you avoid making costly mistakes that could cost you your hard-earned money. Also, make sure to keep up with the maintenance required to maintain your home’s value and safety.
When it comes to making improvements, many homeowners are looking for projects that will add resale value to their house. The most popular home renovations include adding a new master suite, an additional bathroom, and kitchen upgrades. Other projects include installing a new deck or fence, replacing flooring, and updating the home’s exterior.
According to the American Housing Survey, homeowners spent $522 billion on home improvement projects last year. This is an increase of 7.2% from the previous two-year period. The average home improvement cost was $3,890.
These days, many people are reluctant to hire contractors because of concerns about the coronavirus pandemic. But if you do hire someone to work on your home, be sure they’re licensed and insured. It’s also a good idea to ask for references and check them. And don’t pay the full amount upfront.
One of the best ways to get your home looking nice again is to give it a fresh coat of paint. It will make it look bright and clean, which can help attract potential buyers. Also, it’s a good idea to replace worn out door and window screens, and paint or stain your deck or fence.
Another great way to make your home look better is to plant some flowers or shrubs, and weed or mulch around your yard. It’s a simple and inexpensive way to make your home more inviting, and it will add curb appeal.
Some homeowners may have the tendency to overspend on home improvement projects, especially if they choose high-end materials. But these upgrades may not increase your home’s value. For example, installing granite countertops is a costly upgrade, but you may not get the full value back when it’s time to sell your home.
In addition, a major repair can quickly derail your home improvement plans if you’re not prepared for it. For instance, a plumbing leak might lead to a rotted subfloor or roof shingles, and these unexpected issues can drive up the costs of your project.
If you’re considering a home improvement project, talk to a real estate agent in your area to learn what kinds of renovations are most likely to add value to your house. This will help you determine which projects are worth the cost, and which ones to skip. Also, be sure to update your home insurance as the value of your home goes up. You might find that your old policy doesn’t offer enough coverage. Also, be sure to talk with a financial planner about how to plan for the future and save money for unexpected expenses. This will help you stay on track to reach your retirement goals.