Home improvement is a popular hobby that involves doing projects to improve the interior and exterior of a house. It’s also an important way to keep a house looking its best, which can help to make it more attractive to potential buyers.
Whether you’re remodeling your home or just doing some minor maintenance, it’s always a good idea to do it on a budget. This will ensure that you don’t spend more than you can afford to and can still reap some benefits from the renovation, such as an increased resale value and better energy efficiency.
The home improvement industry has grown over the years as Americans have become increasingly more interested in their homes and the ways they can be improved. This trend has been driven by a number of factors, including government mortgage insurance programs for returning veterans and the popularity of television home improvement shows such as Bob Vila’s This Old House.
A home equity loan is a great option for homeowners who want to take on a big renovation project. These loans allow you to borrow against the value of your home and pay it back over 5-30 year terms.
These kinds of loans can be helpful for homeowners who have a large amount of home equity to invest, but they should only be used for renovations that won’t negatively affect the value of your home and are within your budget.
If you’re planning to sell your home soon, be sure to get advice from a real estate professional before making any high-end upgrades. For example, an expensive backyard hot tub may look cool, but it could actually hurt your resale value since the pool is likely to stand out from the rest of the neighborhood.
Painting is an inexpensive and relatively easy home improvement that can have a huge impact on the overall appeal of your home. It’s especially beneficial if you plan to sell your home in the future, as neutral shades are always in demand by prospective buyers.
Crown molding is another inexpensive and surprisingly easy home improvement that can add depth and character to a room. It’s a great DIY project that requires a little woodworking skill and the right tools, but it can be completed in no time.
Cleaning up your fireplace is another simple, yet effective, home improvement project that can be accomplished quickly and inexpensively. The first step is to wipe away any accumulated soot and creosote. Then, using a damp rag and a special cleaning solution, scrub the brick.
Replacing your windows is another affordable, yet impactful way to upgrade your home’s appearance and comfort. New vinyl windows can be a good way to increase your home’s resale value and reduce energy costs, as they are more efficient at reducing heat transfer into and out of your house.
Getting rid of trees that are too messy or invasive is also a home improvement project that can negatively affect your home’s resale price. Trees like oak, female Ginkgo biloba and sweet gum can make your home appear dirty and out of place, says Dave Beasley, a real estate agent at Beasley Realty Group in Denver.