Home improvement is a popular pastime for many people. A well-manicured lawn, a few flowerbeds and a few shrubs can instantly improve the look of your home. Other projects, like adding a deck or putting in a fence, are relatively inexpensive. However, some projects, such as installing a new bathroom or converting a garage into a living space, can be costly. And some renovations, if not carefully planned, can decrease the resale value of your home.
Home Improvement: A Guide to Renovating Your Property
Despite the current economic slowdown, homeowners are still undertaking many home improvement projects. Some are even putting in swimming pools and recording studios, according to a recent survey by Angi, a contractor search service and house renovation website. While a few of these projects may boost your home’s appeal, they are not always worth the money.
The popularity of home improvement shows on television has helped fuel interest in DIY projects. These programs sparked a desire to re-create homes featured in the shows, such as the picturesque farmhouse on “Fixer Upper” or the classic home of Bob Vila on “This Old House.” During the 1950s and 1960s, the cultural phenomenon of suburbanization contributed to a growing fascination with the idea of “home sweet home.” Homeowners were encouraged by government mortgage insurance programs for veterans to buy suburban houses and make improvements, including kitchen remodeling, basement finishing and bathroom upgrades, as part of a plan to create a sense of family togetherness in the suburbs.
After World War II, the rise of consumer electronics and affordable materials helped increase interest in home improvement. The development of home improvement retail stores such as Home Depot and Lowe’s further fueled this trend. In addition, the development of large builders such as Levitt and Sons influenced the construction of more homes in the suburbs.
Today, there are countless home improvement shows and magazines available, as well as numerous books on the subject. These resources provide inspiration and ideas for anyone who wants to renovate their home. They can also help a homeowner determine whether a specific home improvement project is a good investment.
The most common and affordable home improvements are those that can be easily accomplished with minimal skills and tools. Installing a new front door, for example, is an easy and cheap way to upgrade your home’s appearance. Other simple improvements include trimming bushes and removing weeds from around trees, shrubs and flowers. A fresh coat of paint is another simple but effective home improvement.
When planning a home improvement, keep in mind that the more customized a renovation is to a specific owner’s needs and tastes, the less likely it will have a positive impact on resale value. For instance, a homeowner who spends a lot of money to put in a recording studio will probably not get the full amount back when they sell the house because a young family is unlikely to be interested in a home music production facility.