The term “Home Improvement” covers a wide range of projects that improve the exterior and interior of a home. These projects can range from simple cosmetic changes to major remodeling, including adding new kitchens and bathrooms. If you’re planning to sell your home, you can even improve its value by making some changes yourself. Below are some tips for homeowners who want to make the most of the investment. Keep reading to learn more about how to choose the right home improvement project.
Costs
The rising cost of living is driving more people to spend on home improvement projects. Although kitchen and bathroom remodels are still the most popular projects, other home improvement activities include additions, outdoor living spaces, smart home installations, and homeschooling stations. Regardless of your skill level or desire to save money, home improvement can improve the overall look of your property. Here are some of the most common costs associated with home improvement projects. But before you start your next project, make sure you know the facts about these costs.
House remodeling costs vary greatly. For example, renovating a kitchen costs anywhere from $15,000 to $50,000. On the other hand, if you’re looking to remodel a bathroom, you should aim for a budget of at least two to five percent of the home’s value. Experts recommend spending between one and seven percent of the home’s value on home improvement projects. And if you’re remodeling your whole home, it’s best to keep the budget under twenty percent of its value. If you have a budget of $100,000 or more, you can plan for a full kitchen remodel, HVAC replacement, whole-house paint job, and even a gut-and-replacement.
Projects
Home improvement projects can be an excellent way to add aesthetic value to your home and increase its value. Some of these projects can be completed by yourself at a fraction of the cost of hiring a contractor. You can also take on these projects with the help of a friend or family member. It doesn’t matter whether you are a novice or an expert, home improvement projects can make your home more appealing and add a lot of value to your property.
Contractors involved
The word “contractor” is often used to describe anyone who carries out residential home improvement work. In reality, home improvement refers to the repair, maintenance, and restoration of residential real property, such as a house or yard. Some common home improvement tasks include installing a new roof, repaving a driveway, remodeling a kitchen, or installing a fence. Before completing any home improvement work, you should choose a contractor carefully. Licensed contractors are required to pass a test that covers home improvement law, business competency, and screening for serious criminal convictions.
Before hiring a contractor, make sure to have a list of the work that needs to be done. A written list helps you negotiate with the contractor and lock in a firm price. It also prevents surprises and catches unreliable contractors in the act. Check whether the contractor has proper insurance and licenses. If not, you could be liable for any injuries or damage to the property. In New York, home improvement contractors have among the highest complaint rates. In 2017, the city’s Department of Consumer Affairs issued $1.5 million in fines to contractors.