Home improvement is any work that improves the quality of a residential property or its physical surroundings. This can include anything from installing a new roof or repairing a faulty driveway to improving a kitchen or bathroom.
Homeowners spend a significant amount of money on home improvements. While some homeowners do it as a way to increase the value of their homes, many more homeowners do it because they want their home to be comfortable and enjoyable for them and their families.
Whether you’re looking to update your kitchen or upgrade your bath, there are plenty of ways to do it without spending a fortune. Some of the most affordable DIY projects to consider are painting, re-grouting tile, and power washing the outside of your house.
Remodeling your kitchen or bathroom is one of the most popular home improvement projects for homeowners across the country, according to a 2021 American Housing Survey by NerdWallet. This is because updating rooms is a great way to bring your home up to date with today’s trends and features.
In addition to improving your kitchen or bathroom, many homeowners also take the time to make other changes in their homes. For example, they may decide to replace the flooring or add a backyard deck and patio.
For the best results, however, you should consult with a professional before committing to any remodeling project. A reputable contractor should be licensed and insured, and have experience working on similar projects.
You can find local, national and regional contractors through several sources. Aggregators typically bundle services and offer competitive prices for homeowners. Ask around to see if any of your friends or neighbors have used these contractors in the past and get references from them.
Before you hire a contractor, make sure they’re licensed and insured in the state where you live. This is to ensure that they’re following the law, and it also means you won’t have to worry about paying for damages if something goes wrong.
If you’re not sure who to hire, check out the Better Business Bureau or your city or county building department. They usually have a list of licensed and insured contractors in your area.
A contractor should provide you with a written contract that includes the work they will be doing, the estimated cost and a payment schedule. The contract should also include a timeline and specific details about the materials they plan to use.
Some contractors require a deposit or a partial payment upfront, while others have flexible payment terms that can be negotiated. You should never pay the full price upfront, and always establish a payment schedule that is reasonable to you.
A reputable contractor should be able to answer your questions about the project, give you a quote for the work, and complete the job on time. They should be able to provide you with a list of all required inspections and certificates of occupancy. You should also be able to meet the contractor face-to-face to discuss the details of your project.