Home improvement, in general terms, is any renovation, repair, alteration, remodeling, conversion, or modernization of a residential structure or the land it occupies. The term may also refer to a particular room or area within the structure, such as a kitchen remodel or bathroom upgrade. It may also refer to the construction, erection, or replacement of driveways, swimming pools, patios, landscaping, fences, porches, garages, fallout shelters, basements, and similar projects.
While many professional remodeling projects stopped during the pandemic, DIY renovations surged. People were spending more time at home due to Covid lockdowns and were eager to modify their living spaces. Moreover, the satisfaction they found with their upgraded homes was high.
However, homeowners must be cautious about the types of projects they choose to undertake. It’s a good idea to stick with simple, cost-effective upgrades that improve energy efficiency and save money. This includes installing smart thermostats, upgrading old appliances to newer models with higher efficiency ratings, and adding insulation to your home.
Another thing to consider is how your improvements will impact resale value. If you spend a lot of money improving your home, you want to ensure that it will appeal to the largest number of buyers. For instance, a house with an overly customized or eccentric pool or a neon-lit sign is unlikely to interest most potential buyers and could decrease your home’s value. Therefore, homeowners should choose renovations that fit with the overall style of their neighborhood and the local property market.