Home improvement is the process of improving the efficiency and beauty of a home. The term also refers to the practice of building additions to a property, or making repairs to existing structures. This includes plumbing, electrical work, roofing, and much more. Home improvement can be as simple as replacing an old doorknob or as complex as adding a whole new bathroom suite. Whether it is cosmetic or functional, improving one’s home can be very rewarding.
Home renovations surged during the pandemic, and according to a recent report from the National Association of Realtors (NAR), 86% of homeowners who completed a renovation reported greater satisfaction with their homes. But the best way to maximize the value of your upgrades is to make changes that are practical, rather than purely aesthetic.
Investing in the right home improvements can not only increase your comfort but can also save you money, improve security, and even offer tax benefits. But it is important to avoid pitfalls that may decrease your home’s value or result in costly mistakes.
For example, overly expensive upgrades like marble floors might seem appealing to you but aren’t likely to attract potential buyers. Similarly, turning your garage into a living space might add square footage to your home but it isn’t a high priority for most buyers. Homeowners are more interested in the low-cost, high-return fixes that can easily be done with a bit of DIY expertise. Deck construction is up 275%, and fence construction is up 144%.