A house truly becomes yours not when you sign the deed, but after you customize it to suit your lifestyle. Home improvement projects can increase your home’s functionality, happiness quotient, and value. Whether you’re updating your 80s kitchen or cleaning up the yard, our expert home improvement tips and hacks can help you rock your next DIY project.
Return on investment (ROI) is a big consideration for homeowners who plan to sell their homes in the future. But for many homeowners, the ROI of a renovation is more personal than financial—and it can be hard to put a price on things like a cozy living room or a clean basement.
Moreover, not all home improvements have a high ROI, especially when it comes to repairs. For instance, replacing a leaky roof or patching holes in drywall won’t add much value to your home. Only improvements that adapt your home to new uses or extend its lifespan qualify as ROI-worthy. For example, installing grab bars and handrails in your bathrooms can make it easier to navigate the home as you age.
Homeowners may be pulling back on major upgrades as they watch prices rise. But they still want to improve their home’s comfort and appeal, according to research from the National Association of Realtors and the Home Design Trends survey from Houzz. Plus, some improvements may qualify for tax credits. For example, installing smart smoke detectors that emit louder sounds or flash a light to warn you of a fire may qualify for the Home and Energy Efficiency Improvement Credit.