Home improvement can be expensive, so it’s important to find ways to save money and keep your projects within your budget. From comparing quotes to taking advantage of credit card rewards, there are plenty of ways to cut costs and stay on track for your next big project.
While some home improvements can add value, others may actually decrease your property’s resale value. That’s why it’s important to carefully consider your plans for your house and choose upgrades that will meet both your personal preferences and resale needs.
In general, to be considered a home improvement, a project must either add value to the house or improve its ability to adapt to new uses. This includes things like converting a garage into a living space, turning an attic into a bedroom, and putting in walk-in showers for those with disabilities. But a few simple upgrades could qualify as well, such as installing smart smoke detectors to alert you of fires and upgrading your HVAC system with an energy-efficient upgrade.
If you’re unsure what your home improvement priorities should be, consult with an experienced real estate agent to learn which renovations will maximize the value of your property and get you the most bang for your buck. They can also help you identify potential pitfalls that might be difficult to spot yourself, such as the risk of over-customizing your home or running into problems with your upgrades that could cost more than expected.