Home improvement is the repair, remodeling, altering, restoring, modernizing, or adding to any residential building. This includes, but is not limited to:
Many homeowners embark on home improvement projects with the hope that the upgrades will add value to their property. However, not all home improvements are created equal. In fact, some projects can actually decrease a house’s resale value.
With the help of popular television home improvement shows, DIY (“do-it-yourself”) enthusiasts are gaining momentum in the home improvement market. Once a predominantly male-dominated domain, home improvement is now seen as a leisure activity that can be enjoyed by women and couples.
Choosing the right contractor for your home improvement project is crucial. When receiving estimates, homeowners should compare price, type of firm, reputation and experience. They should also request references and contact those references before hiring a contractor. In addition, homeowners should always check a contractor’s license and insurance before beginning a project. This information can be obtained from the New York City Department of Consumer Affairs and/or the Better Business Bureau in Suffolk, Nassau, Westchester, Putnam and Rockland counties.
A surging economy, record-low interest rates, and a desire to make a house feel more like a home are driving many homeowners to undertake renovations this year. According to Houzz, some of the most popular home improvement projects this year are a kitchen or bathroom remodel; deck construction; and fence installation.