Home improvement is the remodeling, repair, renovation, or modernization of a residential or noncommercial property. It can also refer to the addition of rooms or structures, such as an attic or garage. Home improvement can be done by a variety of individuals, including professional contractors and do-it-yourselfers. Some home improvement projects are relatively inexpensive and can add value to a home, such as a fresh coat of paint or re-grouting tile. Others are more expensive and may have a higher ROI, such as installing energy-efficient appliances or adding insulation.
It’s important to keep in mind that although a home improvement project may increase the value of a home, it doesn’t necessarily mean you’ll make a profit or even recoup your investment. In fact, most of the time, you’ll lose money. The reason for this is that buyers tend to focus on what they want and not what you think they’ll like. For this reason, you should only undertake a home improvement that will improve your personal enjoyment or the function of your home.
Of course, there are some home improvements that simply can’t wait, such as a leaky roof or clogged gutters. These are important to do for safety reasons and should be completed immediately before they worsen or cause further damage. And, of course, certain maintenance tasks are inevitable, such as replacing worn doorknobs or cleaning out rain gutters. If you find yourself short of cash to complete a home improvement, it is possible to obtain financing. Many lenders offer unsecured loans, such as a personal loan or credit card, to help you meet your needs. In addition, if you have equity in your home, you may be able to get a secured loan such as a second mortgage or a home equity line of credit (HELOC).