Home improvement describes the remodeling, altering, repairing, renovating, painting, changing the look of, or adding to residential and noncommercial property. Examples include painting, laying carpeting, installing or replacing flooring, window and door replacement, plumbing, electrical upgrades, rewiring outlets and switches, removing lead paint from a house built before 1978, and more.
While it is nice to add a little extra luxury to your home, not all renovation projects are worth the money or increase resale value. Rather than spending a fortune on marble countertops in your bathroom or adding a custom garage, homeowners should try to make improvements that will appeal to the majority of buyers in their area.
That way, when the time comes to sell, a good return on renovations can be earned. When considering what DIY renovations are a smart idea, consider the level of complexity involved and the specific knowledge needed to complete the project. Also, consider the amount of time spent on the project and how it may impact your day-to-day activities. And of course, remember to factor in any possible safety risks, such as tripping over a gas pipe or damaging the floor. If it seems like a lot of risk to take on, leave the job to the professionals. For small-scale improvements, a credit card with an introductory 0% APR period can offer a convenient, short-term financing option. If you do decide to finance a large home improvement project, consult a financial planner for advice and to explore available loan options.
