Home improvement is a term used to describe a wide range of construction and maintenance activities, including home renovations, garden work, and garage maintenance and upgrades. These projects can improve the value of a property and make it more comfortable, safer or energy efficient.
Homeowners typically make home improvements for a variety of reasons, including personal preference and comfort, repairs or maintenance work, to increase the value of the property or for aesthetic reasons. They may also be done as a way to reduce energy costs and improve safety, especially when it comes to a property that is located in an area where the weather can be unpredictable.
Projects can be expensive, so it’s important to create a budget and stick to it. If you don’t have the money to pay cash, it may be a good idea to consider a home equity loan.
You’ll likely want to use a contractor for your home improvement projects, so be sure to select a reputable one with a track record of quality and customer satisfaction. Check their license and insurance, and look for references before hiring them.
Resale values can be affected by a variety of factors, so it’s important to make sure your renovations will appeal to a wide range of potential buyers. Don’t try to splurge on upgrades that don’t have much resale value, like high-end appliances and flooring, or extravagant light fixtures.
The 2021 American Housing Survey showed that homeowners spent $624 billion on home improvement projects during a two-year period, double the amount they spent in 2013, and more than triple what they spent in 2009. It also shows that the number of projects grew 44% during this time period, from 94 million to 134.8 million.