Home improvement is a common hobby for many homeowners, and it can be a way to increase the value of one’s property. The practice can include anything from painting a room to completing a full-scale renovation. Some projects can be as simple as replacing a broken faucet, while others may require the expertise of a licensed contractor. Regardless of the scope of the work, any home improvement project can be a useful and satisfying experience.
In the past, home improvement primarily referred to remodeling or repairs that improved the look or function of a dwelling. More recently, the term has come to encompass a much wider range of activities. The most common activities fall into two broad categories: maintenance and repair, and modernization or upgrading. The latter is often done to keep a house up-to-date or in line with the homeowner’s desired vision for their living space.
According to the American Housing Survey, which interviews homeowners every other year, home improvement spending has increased over recent years. This is in part due to the pandemic, which resulted in people staying at home more and completing projects they might have put off otherwise. The survey also finds that people are more satisfied with their homes, with 84% saying they enjoy spending time there.
When considering any home improvement projects, it’s important to consider the return on investment. This is usually expressed as a percentage and is calculated by researching similar properties and sales prices. The higher the ROI, the more money you’ll recoup on your investment. It’s also important to keep in mind that some improvements are less likely to add value. This is particularly true if they are very personalized and don’t fit in with the style of other houses in the neighborhood.
For example, adding an in-ground pool might not make sense if most other homes in your neighborhood have above-ground pools. In addition, you might want to consult with a real estate agent before beginning any large-scale home improvement projects to ensure they’ll be worth it in the long run.
Another important consideration is the cost of the project and how it will be paid for. There are a number of options for financing home improvement projects, including personal loans and credit cards. If the project is more extensive and will require substantial financing, a mortgage or home equity loan might be a better option.
There are also a number of online resources for finding contractors and advice on DIY projects. In the past, home improvement was viewed as a male-dominated activity, but with the advent of shows like Trading Spaces and the rise of women in the workforce, this perception has changed. Today, both men and women participate in home improvement and have access to a wide variety of products, tools, and advice.