What is Home Improvement? Home improvement is a term used to describe projects that enhance the appearance of a home. This may involve interior or exterior renovations or improvements that improve the property. Whether you want to add a new bedroom or bathroom, improve your kitchen, or remodel your garage, home improvement projects are a great way to improve your living space. In some cases, you can even do some of the work yourself. You’ll be surprised to learn that it’s easier than you think.
Costs of home improvement projects
The number of home improvement projects has increased significantly over the past year. Increasing cost of living has led to increased home improvement activities. Home improvement spending is expected to increase by 19.7% annually by 2022, with the growth rate slowed to 15.1% in the second half of the decade. By the first quarter of 2022, the total amount of home improvement spending will reach $450 billion in the U.S. Despite the growth of remodeling, costs continue to rise, so it is important to keep a close eye on these costs.
While these costs may seem low, they are often significant. These costs can include hazardous materials, general contractor markup, and sales tax on materials. Additionally, local building departments often require permit fees and inspections for projects, and can add up to a substantial portion of the total cost. Fortunately, there are several ways to reduce these costs and get a good deal. First, use a FREE home improvement project hiring guide to estimate the cost of hiring a contractor.
Contractors’ license requirements
If you plan to conduct home improvement projects, you’ll have to check the state licensing requirements. You can’t just go into a home improvement store and pick out a license. In Pennsylvania, a home improvement contractor who does more than $5,000 a year must register with the Attorney General’s Office to get a license. Similarly, in Rhode Island, home improvement contractors must register with the Contractors’ Registration and Licensing Board and take at least five hours of pre-license education. And, of course, proof of liability insurance is required.
Most states require home improvement contractors to obtain a license before they can work on residential projects. A contractor in Georgia must obtain a Construction Supervisor license to do residential projects over $2,500, while a contractor in Connecticut must hold a General Contractor license. Massachusetts’ Construction Supervisor License is issued by the Office of Public Safety and Inspections. The state also requires a home improvement contractor to have a Certificate of Competency to work in the state.
Do-it-yourself options
Whether you’re a seasoned DIYer or a first-timer, you’ve likely bungled a home improvement project. According to a recent survey, 4 out of 10 homeowners have botched a project and a third have said that a television home improvement show has influenced their decision. Young House Love’s Sherry Petersik suggests that you weigh the risks of DIY projects before beginning one. For example, if you mess up your bedroom paint job, you will likely have to repaint it, so why not hire someone to do the job?
Tax implications
Some improvements can have tax benefits. These include improvements that make the home more accessible or functional for elderly or infirm people. Landscaping projects can boost the value of a home and can be deductible, too. Plumbing additions, such as a new water heater or septic tank, can also reduce taxable income. The IRS has a list of qualified improvements. However, garden-variety projects may not qualify for tax deductions.
Before undertaking a home improvement project, it is essential to understand the tax implications of these expenses. Home improvement can cost thousands of dollars, so it is essential to have a clear idea of the tax implications of your expenses. Consult a tax expert before you start work. It is much easier to prepare for your taxes before the project begins, rather than frantically searching for receipts. And don’t forget to keep track of your expenses as they occur, rather than waiting until tax time to collect them.