Home improvement is one of the most popular ways to improve your house. The TV schedule is filled with shows like Fixer Upper and This Old House, encouraging people to get their hands dirty with a hammer and nails. But it’s important to understand which renovations will add value to your home and which will actually cost you more money than they’ll return in resale.
Overhauling surfaces underfoot and overhead was the most popular home improvement in 2017. Over 5.2 million homeowners replaced carpeting, flooring, paneling or ceiling tiles. This is an easy upgrade that can instantly brighten a room and freshen the entire look of your house.
A well-kept yard is a low-cost, high-impact home improvement that boosts curb appeal and may even increase your property’s appraised value. Adding a flowerbed, pruning shrubs and bushes, and planting new trees or bushes can instantly beautify your home and add value to your property.
Before you hire anyone to do any work on your home, always get multiple estimates from contractors that are licensed in your county or city. Contractors vary in price, reputation, experience and how long they have been in business. Check out each contractor’s license status, insurance coverage and references from past clients. You should also ask about warranties for materials and workmanship. You should have a written contract that includes a timeline for when the work will be performed and when it will be substantially completed. The contract should also contain a description of the work and the specific materials to be used.