Home improvement is a broad term that encompasses any work done to upgrade the interior or exterior of your house. It could include installing new appliances, repairing a leaky toilet or replacing rotting wood. It can also mean taking on garden work or garage maintenance/additions.
Most homeowners are considering a home improvement project in the coming two years, according to our latest NerdWallet survey. Many are considering small projects, like painting a room or updating light fixtures, while others are thinking about large-scale renovations such as refinishing kitchen cabinets and adding a bathroom.
In the past six years, home improvement spending has grown more than 50 percent and aging homeowners are driving that trend. This is because people are living longer and want to maintain the quality of their homes as they age.
During that time, the average cost of all home improvement projects was $4,838. That’s up from $3,902 in the previous survey period and $1,424 during the same time in 2010.
The national average cost of all home improvement projects was $4,838 during the 2021 American Housing Survey. This figure is based on interviews with a random sample of homeowner households from May 3 through Sept. 30, 2021.
Homeowners are mainly looking to improve their energy efficiency, which can be costly. Installing a programmable thermostat and smart lighting systems can help reduce utility bills, while upgrading an HVAC system can boost your property’s value.
Replacing carpeting, flooring, paneling and ceiling tiles is another popular home improvement project that can be accomplished for a relatively inexpensive price. But be sure to choose a quality product that will last for a long time.
Crown molding is a cheap and easy way to add character to your home. These decorative strips are available in a variety of colors and materials, and they can be purchased at any home improvement store. They can be installed with a nail gun or power drill and can be painted to match your existing walls.
It’s important to find a reputable contractor when you need to do home improvement. Ask for references and make sure they’re licensed in the state you live in. Check for a Better Business Bureau rating and insurance information.
Consider using a home equity line of credit (HELOC) or other type of loan for major remodeling projects, if you have enough equity to qualify. This financing option is typically a little more complicated than a traditional personal loan, but it can be helpful for high-value projects or if you need a lump sum to complete the project.
Before you start a home improvement project, be sure to get a detailed contract. This should have a timeline of when the work will begin and when it will be completed, as well as a payment schedule. It should also include a description of the work and the materials to be used.
Lastly, be sure to know where your payments are going and make sure your contractor puts the money in an escrow account until the job is substantially complete. This can be an added peace of mind and ensure that you won’t have to worry about where your money is going.