Home improvement, also known as home renovation or remodeling, is the process of improving the interior and exterior of a house. These projects can include remodeling or adding to rooms, upgrading the kitchen and bathroom, refinishing wood floors, adding carpeting, putting in a swimming pool, installing a new roof, or replacing the driveway. Home improvements are often done for aesthetic reasons, but can be for utility and comfort as well.
Many home improvement projects are relatively inexpensive and can add significant value to a house. However, not all projects are created equal. To maximize your resale value, choose upgrades that are popular in your area and within your price range. For example, a luxurious marble bath won’t appeal to most buyers and may not add the amount you invested back to your home’s selling price.
Before hiring a contractor to perform any work on your home, obtain at least three estimates and check references. You should also require a written contract with the project details, including the work to be performed, the materials to be used, and the approximate dates when the work will begin and be substantially completed. Also, be sure to review any warranties offered by the contractor. In addition, most states require that contractors pass a background check and have liability insurance before they can work on a home improvement project. In some cases, homeowners can do some of the work themselves if they are comfortable using power tools and working with electrical and plumbing systems.