Home improvement is the process of renovating or making additions to one’s home. It can be done for a variety of reasons, including increasing the home’s value, preparing for sale or simply updating the look and feel of a room. Home improvements can be as simple as adding trim to the windows or as complex as a full kitchen remodel. Many homeowners take on DIY projects, while others hire professionals. When choosing a contractor, it is important to be clear on what work needs to be done and to get multiple bids. This will help to prevent contractors from overcharging or performing unnecessary work. It is also wise to check with local building and codes offices to determine if a permit is required for the project.
In a time when economic conditions are so uncertain, experts say many consumers will focus on making repairs and sprucing up their current homes instead of purchasing new ones. “Homeowners are looking to protect the investments they’ve made in their homes by making repairs and upgrades,” Anderson says. And, with rock-bottom interest rates, home improvement costs have become very attractive.
Other popular home improvement projects include upgrading kitchen appliances and installing smart thermostats to cut energy costs. Experts also expect to see more updates that make a house more resilient in the face of natural disasters, such as raising properties located in flood zones or replacing windows in coastal communities with hurricane-resistant options.