Home improvement is the practice of making repairs or improvements to a home. The term can also refer to a specific type of project, such as putting in a new kitchen or adding a deck. Some homeowners choose to make these projects themselves, while others hire contractors. There are many reasons to do home improvements, including enhancing aesthetics, increasing safety and security, or improving the functionality of the house.
With rock-bottom interest rates, low mortgage rates, and a tight supply of homes for sale, many homeowners are spending their money fixing up their houses. In fact, according to the Contractor Growth Network, there has been a surge in some types of home improvement work this year, such as deck construction and fence installation.
Regardless of the motivation, many homeowners are mindful of which home improvements will deliver the best return on investment when they sell. For example, sparkling bathroom renovations are a great way to increase your home’s value. However, major kitchen and basement remodeling typically doesn’t provide much of a return, according to a recent Cost vs. Value report from Zonda Media.
While it’s important to compare prices when choosing a contractor, never base your decision solely on price. It is equally important to consider a contractor’s level of experience, reputation, and ability to complete the job on time. In addition, you should check a contractor’s license and insurance before hiring them. Homeowners should also look for a contract with an arbitration clause, which protects the homeowner in the event of a dispute.