Home Improvement – Make Your House More Functional and Increase Its Value

Home improvement is a popular way to update your home’s look and increase its value. Many projects offer a high return on investment, but you must weigh your priorities. The best home improvements make your house more functional and enjoyable to live in. Other reasons to renovate include safety and comfort issues, but be careful not to go overboard. A remodel that doesn’t fit the style of your neighborhood or is too expensive may not add value.

A recent survey from Zonda shows that some of the most popular home improvement projects this year were kitchen and bathroom renovations, along with adding a new room or refinishing a basement. Despite higher building material costs, more homeowners are planning to renovate this year than in previous years. This trend could continue if housing prices stay high and mortgage rates remain low.

In addition to making your home more functional, the right improvements can help you save money on taxes. In most states, the labor costs for most home improvement projects are tax-exempt if you can prove that the work qualifies as a capital improvement. Check with your local tax department for more information.

Regardless of the scope of your project, it’s important to choose the right contractor for the job. While price is a factor, you should also consider the contractor’s reputation, business references and experience. In addition, be sure to obtain quotes from several contractors before selecting one. Then, compare each contractor’s pricing, quality of work, insurance and licenses.