Home improvement is a process where you upgrade the interior or exterior of your home. This can be done in a number of ways. It could be an effort to make your house more comfortable, or it could involve a significant investment. Regardless of the reason for the improvement, there are several important tips to follow.
Financing options for home improvement
There are many home improvement financing options available to homeowners today. However, selecting a good one requires some planning and consideration. The best option is one that is flexible and efficient with easy to understand terms. It should also have a low interest rate and a payment schedule that will work for the borrower.
One of the most common forms of home improvement financing is a home equity loan. This type of loan does not require a high credit score. It is based on the value of the property after the improvements are completed. However, you must be aware of the requirements for this type of loan, as they can affect your credit score.
Contractor licensing
Home improvement contractors are required by law to be licensed in the state in which they intend to perform their work. Contractors in New Mexico, for example, are required to get a license from the local government. New York City is another example of a city that requires contractors to get licenses. The city’s department of licensing has a checklist that applicants must follow in order to obtain a license.
All contractors with more than one employee must have a current Workers’ Compensation Certificate of Insurance. The certificate must be endorsed by the Department of Labor. If an insurance certificate is expired, the contractor will be removed from the list of registered contractors. In Nevada, every contractor must have a license, except for smaller jobs that don’t exceed $1,000. The license fee is $300 and can be paid by check or money order. The application form is available here.
Costs
Costs of home improvement projects are rising, according to a study by Houzz. In the past year alone, home improvement spending grew by 15%. However, many of these projects have little to no effect on the resale value of the home. The goal should be to boost the resale value by the same amount of money that is spent on the project.
Many home improvement projects are deductible for tax purposes. The deduction is available for improvements that increase the resale value of the house. However, it is important to note that improvements must be made in the year of sale, so the project must be completed in time to qualify for a deduction. In addition, you must keep receipts as proof of expenses. Also, the deduction is limited to 30% of your overall budget.
Getting a loan
If you are planning to do a home improvement project, you need to find a way to finance it. While paying cash is always the best option, borrowing to complete a project is sometimes necessary. You should weigh the expense of borrowing against the costs of postponing the project. If you do need to borrow money for the home improvement, it is best to get it from the least expensive source possible. One good option is to use credit cards, but exercise caution with interest rates.
You may also look to get a loan from your local credit union or bank. The rates there are often competitive, and if you have good credit, you may be able to qualify for a loan. Check out their websites to compare starting rates and fees. Many online lenders also offer competitive rates to all types of borrowers. In addition, they are easier to get approval from.
Choosing a contractor
Before deciding on a home improvement contractor, be sure to check his or her credentials. Check for licenses, a sign that the contractor has taken the proper exams to be a contractor and understands building codes. An insured and bonded contractor offers a greater peace of mind.
You should also ask the contractor for references and look at his or her portfolio. While most contractors will display their portfolios on their website, you can also ask for more photos of their previous projects. This will give you an idea of how well-suited he or she is for your particular project.