Home improvement is a great way to make your house feel more like a home. It can also increase the value of your home and make it more appealing to potential buyers. However, there are some things to keep in mind when working on home improvements. One of the most important things is to always use caution. If you are not sure about a certain task, it is best to ask for help from someone who knows what they are doing. This will ensure that your home improvement projects are done correctly and safely.

Homeowners have been spending more on home improvements this year than last, with remodeling a kitchen or bathroom topping the list of most-wanted projects. Many homeowners are also planning to add a deck or fence to their homes. However, a significant number of them are staying put instead of moving up to another property because of historically high mortgage rates.

There are a few certainties in life: death, taxes and home repair or improvement projects. These can be costly and unavoidable, especially when they arise without warning in the form of a leaky roof or a cracked foundation. Homeowners may find themselves working on these projects to keep their house safe and functioning properly, or they might be doing it in hopes of increasing the home’s value when it comes time to sell.

When it comes to doing home improvements, the return on investment can vary widely. Some projects have an ROI of over 100%, while others barely recoup the cost at all. This is why it’s important to choose projects wisely and only spend money that you can afford to lose.

Generally, home improvements include any work that makes your home safer or more functional for you and your family. This could be as simple as refinishing your basement or replacing the front door, or it might be as complex as installing an entire new kitchen or bathroom. However, home improvements aren’t just about adding value to your home; they can also decrease your living costs. For example, installing a new energy-efficient heating system can save you money on your utility bills and reduce your carbon footprint.

The good news is that a majority of homeowners (75%) report that they are able to pay for most home repairs and improvements without having to tap into their savings or go into debt. This is a significant increase from the 76% of respondents who reported that they were able to do so in our September survey.

When it comes to paying for home improvements, the most important thing is to get a contract in writing before work begins. This should detail a timeline for the project to be completed, an agreed-upon price and a payment schedule. It should also include as many details about the project as possible, such as specific brands or types of materials to be used. You should avoid contractors that refuse to sign a written contract or don’t have their name, address and MHIC license preprinted on it.