Home Improvement – Boosting Your Home’s Value
Home improvement is the repair, maintenance, restoration or improvement of residential real property. Examples include installing a new roof, painting, resurfacing the driveway, remodeling the kitchen or bathroom, putting in a pool or building a deck. In some states, a contractor who performs a home improvement contract may be required to pass a background check and/or an exam on construction skills.
A few key upgrades can significantly boost your home’s value. A kitchen and bath renovation is a good place to start, as well as adding square footage with a basement remodel or an additional bedroom. Be sure to consult a real estate expert in your area before starting any major projects, though. Buyer preferences vary widely from market to market, and you don’t want to overspend on a project that won’t pay off come sale time.
The cost of materials is a big concern for homeowners planning home improvements. Other top hurdles include disruption to everyday life, difficulty finding pros and time constraints. A homeowner’s budget should always leave room for unexpected expenses, so it is a good idea to talk with a financial planner or real estate pro before beginning any project.
A reputable contractor should provide a written estimate and contract for the home improvement work. It should state the price and payment schedule, as well as a description of the work to be performed. In addition, a contract should include the name, address and MHIC license number of the contractor, as well as an arbitration clause.