Home improvement is a multibillion dollar industry that includes the sale of building materials, appliances and decor to help people upgrade their living spaces. It also encompasses the services of contractors and tradespeople who perform renovations and remodeling projects on residential properties. The home improvement industry has experienced excellent growth results in recent years.
Some home improvements are more important than others, but all homeowners should consider their needs and budget when deciding which projects to tackle. For example, if you’re planning on selling your home in the near future, it might be wise to spend money improving your kitchen or bathroom, which will give buyers a good impression of your house and increase its value.
Other home improvements may improve your quality of life but won’t add much to the resale price, such as adding a deck or installing a new front door. It’s a good idea to consult with a real estate agent about what improvements will add the most value to your home and how long they are likely to remain appealing to buyers.
If you’re considering doing a major home improvement project, such as adding a new master suite, it’s important to get estimates from several different contractors. They will vary in their prices, but it’s also important to look at their experience, reputation and work history. Be wary of any contractor who offers a quote that’s too low or refuses to provide a detailed contract before beginning the work.
The home improvement industry has seen tremendous growth in recent years due to rising housing prices and an aging population that is financially equipped to undertake home renovations. In addition, many older homes are in need of basic upgrades to meet modern standards. Home improvement projects should be carefully planned and executed to ensure safety, quality and efficiency.
When selecting a contractor for a home improvement project, it is important to obtain references and verify the license and insurance coverage of the company. It is also advisable to choose a contractor who belongs to a professional association and/or has professional accreditation. Homeowners should avoid contractors who do not provide proof of liability and workers’ compensation insurance. It’s also a good idea to check with the Better Business Bureau before hiring any home improvement company.
While some home improvement projects will be costly, there are some that can be done at a lower cost and still yield a high return on investment, such as painting or replacing the front door. Other inexpensive fixes that will boost your resale value include updating your kitchen and bathrooms, landscaping and cleaning out rain gutters.
A contract for home improvement should contain a detailed description of the work to be performed, a payment schedule and a warranty that contains the terms and conditions of any applicable warranties. It should be signed by the consumer and the contractor before any work begins. In Maryland, the contract must have the contractor’s name, address and MHIC license number preprinted on it. It should also specify whether the work will be supervised by a licensed builder or will be self-performed by the homeowner.