Home improvement is a multibillion dollar industry that encompasses the sale of building materials, appliances and decor, as well as labor services to build, install, or modify homes and their contents. Home improvements are often made to improve the functionality, safety and appearance of a dwelling. In addition, the term home improvement is used to describe any improvement that adds value to a property and makes it more attractive to potential buyers or renters.
In the past, many homeowners have undertaken home improvement projects with the expectation that the resulting boost in their house’s value would help them pay off debt or make room for a family to grow. But despite the popularity of these projects, not all homeowners end up getting their money’s worth when it comes time to sell or trade-in their homes. In fact, some home improvements may even decrease the resale value of a home, especially if they are overly extravagant or don’t suit the tastes of prospective buyers.
As a result, it is important for homeowners to understand how to choose the right project for their needs and budget before making any home renovations. Fortunately, there are some simple tips that can help homeowners save both money and time when choosing home improvement projects.
One of the most common mistakes that homeowners make is choosing home improvement projects that aren’t likely to increase a house’s resale value. This is particularly true for those who undertake major kitchen or bathroom remodels, which only yield an average of a 69% return on investment when they go on the market, according to Cost vs. Value data from home remodeling loans provider RenoFi.
Another mistake that some homeowners make is over-improving their houses by making them much more expensive than the surrounding neighborhood’s houses. This can turn off prospective buyers, who will be unable or unwilling to pay for a premium over the average for the area.
Some other common mistakes that homeowners make include skipping necessary maintenance tasks, such as replacing worn doorknobs and cleaning out rain gutters. Additionally, a homeowner should avoid tackling too many projects at once, which can lead to overspending and not having enough funds left over for the final touches. Homeowners should also always speak with a real estate professional in their area before starting any major home improvement projects to learn more about which improvements are most likely to add value to their homes. Then, they can plan their budgets accordingly.