Home improvement is any work done on a home to improve its comfort, appearance or functionality. It can be as simple as painting a room or as complex as replacing the roof or installing a new kitchen. Regardless of the size or scope, it is important to find a qualified contractor for any home improvements. Homeowners should always check the contractor’s license and insurance and perform a background check and business references before hiring. Some homeowners also use online aggregators to bundle offers from different home improvement contractors.
The most popular home improvement projects include bathroom renovations, adding new windows and upgrading the kitchen. However, many people also look to improve their yard or driveways. Some projects are more likely to increase a property’s resale value than others. Neglected maintenance tasks can be discovered by potential buyers and may lower a home’s sale price or even deter them from making an offer altogether.
Some home improvements can qualify for a tax deduction. This includes installing accessibility features like grab bars and handrails, or replacing tubs with walk-in showers. Other upgrades, such as smart monitoring systems that can alert you to water leaks and other problems, may also be eligible.
In addition, improving a home’s energy efficiency is another way to increase its resale value. This can be accomplished by installing new insulation or replacement windows, which will save on heating and cooling costs. The climate change trend is expected to drive more home improvement projects, as Americans will need to make their homes more resilient against extreme weather variations and other natural disasters.