The home improvement industry is booming. Sales of home improvement materials, appliances, decor, tradespeople, and remodeling services are higher than ten years ago. The industry is a big part of the global economy. The growing focus on home improvement reflects the values of western society, which is concerned with making homes both functional and visually appealing.
The cost of home improvement projects is rising dramatically. The average cost of a roof replacement was $7,674, and nearly 3.4 million homeowners performed this type of work in 2017. Landscape improvements averaged $2,497. The cost of home improvement materials has increased as inflation has pushed up costs. Home improvement retailers are taking advantage of the rising cost of construction materials and labor to boost their profits.
A well-planned home improvement project can increase your property value. Whether you want to replace cabinet hardware, update kitchen appliances, or build an addition, renovations can add value to your home and improve its marketability. Before beginning a renovation project, it’s a good idea to estimate the cost and see if you can afford the costs. This will make it less likely that you run out of money in the middle of the project.
When hiring a contractor, make sure you hire a reputable one. Check with friends and neighbors who have recently used a contractor to get a recommendation. You should also contact their former customers to see if they were happy with their results. Also, make sure the contractor is insured and licensed in the state in which you live. And be sure to negotiate a payment schedule with the contractor, which can include a small initial payment and an ongoing amount until the work is completed.