Home improvement is the remodeling, repair, alteration or improvement of a residential or noncommercial property. This includes, but is not limited to, painting, refinishing, staining or varnishing wood surfaces; adding molding or trim; installing doors or windows; replacing or repairing flooring, carpeting or wall coverings; installing electrical devices, plumbing fixtures and appliances; and making any other changes to a dwelling or to land adjoining or adjacent thereto.
A few things are certain in life: death, taxes and a clogged drain or roof leak that just can’t be put off. If you’re a homeowner, these and other unexpected repairs can force you to tackle home renovation projects. Or, perhaps you’re looking for ways to improve your house to better fit your lifestyle or increase its resale value.
Whatever your motivation, it’s important to balance cost recovery and homeowner happiness. Here are some of the best and worst home improvements based on their impact on both.