Home improvement, also known as home renovation, is the process of remodeling or repairing a residential property to improve its function, comfort and aesthetics. This includes kitchens and bathrooms, but can also include flooring, painting and other fixtures and surfaces. Home improvements can be made in a variety of ways, from DIY projects to hiring professionals. A common home improvement project is installing a new roof, but other examples include adding an addition or building a deck. It can even be as simple as replacing a worn doorknob.

Some improvements, such as fixing electrical problems or repaving a driveway, can help prevent more serious damage to your home and save you money in the long run. Other improvements, like upgrading your kitchen or bathroom, may increase the value of your home and make it more appealing to potential buyers. However, it is important to keep in mind that your personal tastes and preferences are not necessarily shared by everyone.

It is a good idea to create a budget before starting any home improvement project. This will help you determine how much work you can realistically handle on your own, and will give you a better sense of how much you should spend. It is also a good idea to get estimates from several contractors before choosing one. This will allow you to find the best deal on materials and labor.

Another important consideration when making home improvements is safety. If you notice a problem, such as a leaking roof or drafty windows, it is important to fix it immediately to avoid more costly repairs in the future. Also, it is important to perform regular maintenance on your home to keep it in tip-top shape.

While some improvements, such as adding a pool or putting in a hot tub, can significantly increase your home’s value, it is important to remember that these are not necessarily projects that will return the highest percentage of their cost when you sell your home. Instead, focus on the updates that will appeal to the majority of buyers and are most likely to be recouped when you sell.

As a general rule, updating or modernizing your kitchen and bathroom will add the most value to your home. However, buyer preferences vary greatly from market to market, so be sure to focus on the trends in your area.