Home improvement is the repair, altering, painting, reworking, renovating, or modernizing of the interior or exterior of a residential or noncommercial building. It includes, but is not limited to, installation, replacement, or repair of air conditioning units, heating equipment, ventilating systems, gutters, shingles, siding, insulation, and swimming pools.
Amid the coronavirus pandemic, homeowners have renewed their interest in home improvement projects. While many of these projects are cosmetic in nature, some can add a good amount of value to a house. Others, however, can make a house less attractive to potential buyers.
According to the National Association of Realtors, in 2023, renovations will be primarily focused on making repairs and improving livability. The NAR also says that homeowners will be motivated to remodel due to wanting a better looking, more functional home.
When choosing a contractor for your project, you should choose a licensed and insured company that carries worker’s compensation and liability insurance. In addition, the contractor should be able to provide you with a copy of their license and business references. Lastly, you should never pay more than 1/3 of the contract price upfront and always make payments on time.
Some of the categories that are surging the most during this time are outside improvements like landscaping and fence construction. Anderson says this may be because people are feeling anxious and want a comforting investment to do something with their homes. Many of these projects are inexpensive and can be done by a homeowner themselves.