Home improvement is a popular hobby and activity that involves renovating or improving the function and look of one’s living space. Almost all homeowners will complete some form of home improvement at one point or another. Many people renovate their homes with the intent of increasing resale value or to make the home more enjoyable for themselves and their families. However, not all renovations are created equal and jumping into a project without a budget or plan can lead to overspending and even going into debt.
Home improvements can include a variety of construction related activities such as carpentry, electrical work, drywall repair or installation, plumbing, and roofing. These activities are commonly referred to as DIY (do it yourself) home improvement. Many home owners engage in DIY projects to save money on professional fees and also to learn new skills that can be applied to future DIY or other projects around the house. In addition, a large industry of home improvement retail stores exists to meet the needs of DIY enthusiasts.
The most common and easiest home improvement projects include replacing windows, painting, carpet cleaning, gutter replacement or landscaping. Other projects that will increase your home’s energy efficiency and possibly lower your utility bills are replacing old furnace or air conditioning units, adding insulation and installing solar panels. A few things to avoid when completing your own home improvement projects are: