Home improvement is the repair, maintenance, restoration or improvement of residential real property, such as installing a new roof, repaving a driveway or remodeling a kitchen or bathroom. Home improvement projects can also include outdoor improvements such as landscaping or building a deck. A home renovation is often a complex and time-consuming project, but can increase the value of the house when done properly.
Certainties in life: death, taxes and, for homeowners, the need to complete a number of home repair and improvement projects. The results are often gratifying, but sometimes disappointing (like finding out your plumbing leak caused rotting in the subfloor or your new siding is hiding shoddy work) and expensive. The good news: Most homeowners are able to pay for their projects without tapping into savings, going into debt or making sacrifices. And according to our September survey, three-fourths of homeowners say they stick to the budget they set for their home repair/improvement projects.
But many homeowners are still reluctant to allow home improvement professionals into their homes due to safety concerns during the pandemic. And some aren’t sure what improvements will make their homes more valuable when it comes time to sell. That’s why it’s important to speak with a local real estate professional to learn more about specific renovations that may add value to your home.