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Whether you want to boost your home’s resale value or simply freshen up the interior, do-it-yourself projects are a great way to make quick changes. However, it can be difficult to know which projects will provide the best return on your time and money investment. Over-improving your property can actually decrease its resale value, so it’s important to focus on improvements that bring your home in line with similar homes on the market in your area.

If you are new to DIY renovations, it is a good idea to start with some simple upgrades and work your way up to more complex projects as you gain the skills and confidence to complete them. This way, you can see how well a project goes and get a feel for what kind of DIYs you enjoy.

One of the most cost-effective ways to improve a room is to refresh its color scheme with a coat of paint. It’s an easy project that can be completed in just a day and doesn’t require any extensive tools or professional help.

Other easy and effective home improvement projects include replacing outdated hardware such as door knobs or cabinet pulls. It’s a cheap and easy way to modernize an entire room in just an afternoon. Another budget-friendly update is adding more storage space to a room. For example, a kitchen pantry is an excellent upgrade that can hold canned goods and other frequently used items. Or, a blank wall can be transformed into a handy shelving unit that can hold books, bins and other decorative items.

In addition to a more stylish and functional living space, these projects will boost your mood by giving you the satisfaction of an accomplishment in just a day. These projects are especially helpful for homeowners who struggle to find the time and resources to keep up with basic home maintenance tasks.

Home improvement is a popular way for homeowners to improve their living environment. It can involve making repairs or renovating existing structures or additions to the property. Some of the most common home improvements include painting, landscaping and remodeling rooms. Other improvements may include installing a pool, adding a deck or upgrading a kitchen or bathroom.

Choosing the right home improvement project is not always easy. There are many factors to consider, including how much the project will cost and whether or not it will add value to the home. While it is nice to make a profit on your investment, it is important to keep in mind that there are some projects that will not increase your home’s value and may even decrease it.

It’s a good idea to talk with a professional before starting any home improvement projects. This can help to prevent costly mistakes and ensure that the project is completed properly. A professional will be able to provide advice on the best type of project for your home and recommend quality products. They can also assist you with the permitting process. They will be able to give you an estimate on the project’s cost and provide recommendations on how to save money during the renovation process.

The average homeowner will undertake several home improvement projects each year, according to HIRI’s 2023 Quarterly Homeowner Project Activity and Sentiment Tracker. The most frequent project type is remodeling the kitchen or bath, followed by painting projects and upgrading the home’s electrical and plumbing systems. The majority of homeowners report that they plan to complete at least one of these projects in the next 12 months.

When selecting a contractor to work on your home, be sure to check that they have a valid license and insurance coverage. It is also a good idea to ask for references and check the business’s reputation before hiring them. There are also a number of websites that act as aggregators for home improvement services and can offer you quotes from multiple contractors at once.

If you’re planning to sell your home in the near future, it’s a good idea to focus on home improvement projects that will appeal to prospective buyers. Conventional wisdom holds that kitchens and bathrooms sell homes, so these are some of the most popular upgrades to consider. However, be careful not to go overboard — there’s a fine line between adding value and going over the top with the design.

In the end, home improvement projects should be about improving your family’s comfort and enjoyment of the house. However, if you’re looking to maximize your return on investment, be sure to consider the potential return on a new roof or major kitchen or bathroom remodel. With a little research, you can select the right projects to meet your specific needs and achieve your desired look.

As homeowners plan remodeling projects that will transform their houses, they may need the help of local home improvement contractors. Choosing a contractor is similar to hiring a new employee for a business, so it’s important that the homeowner carefully narrows down candidates and uses tried-and-true methods to do so. This includes examining portfolios, checking licensing and listening to referrals. Using contractor review websites is another great way to find information about contractors and the quality of their work, pricing and customer service.

Local contractors may be able to offer lower prices due to their industry connections. They can also ensure the construction project meets all building and codes requirements. Additionally, a good general contractor can provide a network of professionals for specific tasks like plumbing and electrical work.

Before interviewing potential contractors, a homeowner should prepare a wish list that is clear and thorough. This will make it easier to compare quotes and prevent misunderstandings between the homeowner and contractor. It can also help weed out unscrupulous contractors who try to convince the homeowner to have additional work done that isn’t necessary or desirable. In addition, the list should include any materials and finishes that are desired.

Once the homeowner has a shortlist of potential contractors, it’s time to start checking references. Homeowners should ask for a list of 10 or more jobs with the names, addresses and telephone numbers of the customers. They should also check that the contractors have proper licensing and insurance. Licensing laws vary by state and locality, so the homeowner should call their state or local consumer protection office to learn what credentials are required in their area.

The next step is to ask each contractor for a written estimate that includes a description of the work to be done, the estimated completion date, and the price. The homeowner should ask for explanations of any discrepancies between estimates. They should also inquire about any extra charges, such as debris removal or permits, that are not included in the original quote.

Homeowners should also ask each contractor for a copy of their current liability and worker’s compensation insurance policies. This will ensure that the contractor and any subcontractors are covered in case they get injured or property is damaged during the project. The homeowner should cross off any contractor that can’t or won’t provide proof of insurance, as well as those who stall or seem hesitant when asked for it.

When choosing a local contractor, it’s important to choose one with a positive reputation. The Better Business Bureau (BBB) can help by providing a list of accredited companies in the local area. It’s also a good idea to ask friends and neighbors for recommendations. The BBB also recommends visiting a company’s website to learn about their services, history and customer feedback.

The final step is to compare quotes and select a contractor. The homeowner should also discuss expectations for the job with the contractor, including payment terms and a detailed schedule. The contractor should also explain what types of permits and inspections will be needed.

If you’re planning a major renovation project for your home, it’s crucial to get all the details in writing. A well-written contract between you and the contractor can prevent misunderstandings, disputes and expensive surprises down the road. A construction lawyer can help you make sure the contract includes key sections, such as a detailed description of work to be performed, payment schedules and how changes will be handled.

The first section of a home renovation contract should detail the work to be done, including what will be demolished or constructed, the type and color of materials and fixtures to be used, any additional fees and the total price of the project. This should also include the estimated completion date, as well as a process for addressing any changes in scope of work.

This section should also clearly state who is responsible for obtaining necessary licenses and permits, if required. This is important because large-scale renovations often uncover hidden problems that need to be addressed before the job can proceed. This could involve obtaining new building permits or addressing structural issues. It’s also important to determine who will remove and dispose of the debris from the job site.

In this section you should specify the terms for how the contractor will be paid, including whether a payment plan is available and what completed milestones should warrant an installment payment. For example, a common practice is to have payments pegged to city inspections and approvals for early project milestones like foundation and framing, as well as later milestones such as rough plumbing and electrical work, drywall and carpentry. The final payment should always be at least 10 percent of the total cost and should only be made when the “punch list” is complete and to your satisfaction.

Insurance and Liability: This section specifies any required insurance coverage, such as general liability and workers’ compensation, as well as any exemptions or limitations to these requirements. It should also specify the extent to which the contractor’s work will be guaranteed or warrantied, and how any claims or disputes are to be resolved.

There are many other components to a home renovation contract, but these three are particularly critical. If you’re not comfortable reading and interpreting this kind of legal document, or if a dispute arises during or after the project, a construction litigation attorney can represent your interests in a lawsuit or other resolution to the issue. These attorneys have extensive experience in negotiating and litigating construction and renovation projects, and can provide you with the information you need to protect your rights. Contact us for a free consultation today.

Doing it yourself can be a lot of fun, but when you’re renovating your home and working with expensive materials, it makes sense to hire a general contractor to manage the project. However, you should do your research before hiring a general contractor for your home remodel, as there are good and bad ones out there.

The first thing you should ask is what type of work they specialize in. While many general contractors offer a wide range of services, others have specific specialties such as plumbing or electrical. If you’re looking for a general contractor who has a specialization in your area of need, it can be worth the extra cost to make sure they have the expertise and knowledge you require.

It’s also important to ask potential GCs about their experience and how long they’ve been in business. The longer they’ve been in business, the more likely they are to be competent and dependable. You should also check to make sure they have all the necessary licenses and permits to do your renovation, as well as workers’ compensation insurance for any injuries that may occur during the work process. Be wary of a contractor who doesn’t provide this information willingly or quickly; it could be a red flag.

Another question you should ask potential GCs is how they handle emergency situations during a project. Unexpected expenses are inevitable during any remodel, and it’s important to find a contractor who has a plan for dealing with them in a professional manner and keeping the costs down as much as possible. You should also ask potential GCs what their typical timeline is for projects, and if there are any factors that would affect the project schedule.

One of the most important aspects of any construction project is communication. Good GCs are highly communicative and will keep you updated every step of the way. They should also be responsive to any questions or concerns you have during the project, and they should always be clear on what they will do to address those issues.

When you’re interviewing potential GCs, don’t forget to ask them for a portfolio of their past work. This will give you a good idea of their style and craftsmanship, as well as how their work looks before, during, and after project completion. You should also ask them to explain how they manage a project timeline and what steps are involved in each phase of the work.

Lastly, it’s essential to find out whether or not your potential GC has any affiliations with other companies or contractors. These can cause delays in the project, so it’s important to ensure that you are hiring someone who will be dedicated to your renovation.

If you’re ready to start your remodel journey, the experienced team at Sweeten can connect you with a trusted general contractor that fits your project needs and budget. We take the stress out of the home renovation process by personally matching homeowners with top-rated professionals, while offering expert guidance and support at no additional cost.

Home Improvement fans are pretty giddy over the news that Tim Allen is working on a new pilot. The original ABC sitcom ran from 1991 to 1999, and Allen is now back on the lot where it all started for a new project. Last week, the actor shared a photo on X of himself smiling with a placard from the original show behind him.

The caption read, “Shot the new pilot last Friday here on the Disney lot where it all began.” It’s been quite a few years since Allen filmed on this same lot for his last series LAST MAN STANDING which ended in 2021. But this time around, he’s back as the star of the new comedy SHIFTING GEARS which will air on ABC in Fall 2024.

During the course of eight seasons, viewers watched the Taylor family grow, chuckled at Tim’s cable show Tool Time, and loved his mild-mannered assistant Al Borland (Richard Karn). The cast also included a camera-shy neighbor Wilson played by the late Earl Hindman, and his sage advice was often heard. It was a hugely popular show, and even though it never reached the heights of other ’90s sitcoms like Friends or Seinfeld, it still managed to find an audience of 34 million people per episode.

Jill Taylor was portrayed by actress Patricia Richardson, who some (okay, me) consider to be the best sitcom mom ever. She was married to the perpetually hapless Tim, and he looked up to her in many ways. Despite some strife on the set, the pair forged a close friendship, and the love between them was clear to all.

The show also featured a slew of talented supporting actors, including Richard

Karn, Casey Sander as the Taylors’ younger daughter Heidi, and the always-fun Debbe Dunning as the Tool Time girl. They even got together for a TV special called Home Improvement: A User’s Guide in 2003 (with the terminally ill Hindman doing voice-overs as the sage neighbor Wilson). But now, Richardson is calling BS on rumors of a revival. In an interview for the Back to the Best podcast, she says that a reboot is not happening without her involvement.

Do-it-yourself (DIY) home improvement projects are a great way to express your creativity, enhance your living space and potentially add value to your property. While DIY projects can be gratifying and save you money, it is important for beginners to understand the risks involved, especially when dealing with power tools and electricity. In addition, it is helpful for beginner homeowners to know which projects require a professional’s touch. This article will explore ten diy home improvement projects for beginners that are both cost-effective and offer a high return on investment.

Paint

Repainting a room is one of the cheapest and most effective diy home improvement projects for beginners to undertake. Choose neutral colors that will appeal to a variety of potential buyers if you ever decide to sell your home in the future, and experiment with accent walls to make a room more interesting.

Kitchen Renovations

Installing a new backsplash or replacing cabinet hardware can instantly give your kitchen an updated look. Replacing a countertop is another easy and affordable diy home improvement project that can greatly improve your kitchen’s functionality and appearance.

Window Treatments

Adding custom window treatments can transform your living space without breaking the bank. This DIY project can be as simple or complex as you like, but it’s always best to start with a basic blind and midweight upholstery fabric that complements your color scheme.

Basement Finishing

Creating a finished basement is an excellent way to increase the livability and value of your property. Finishing a basement can increase storage space, provide additional living space and improve the appearance of your home’s exterior. However, it’s important to note that a basement remodel can be a complicated project and should only be completed by an experienced contractor.

Landscaping

Adding vibrantly colored flowers and other plants to your home’s exterior is a budget-friendly diy home improvement project that will boost your curb appeal. Choose perennials, which come back year after year, rather than annuals, which only last a single season, to get the most out of your landscaping investment.

Renovating Different Parts of Your Home

Replacing different parts of your home can be a challenging but rewarding diy home improvement project for beginners. If you are interested in renovating your bathroom, kitchen, or other rooms, it’s important to plan ahead and research the right materials and tools for your project. Additionally, it is important to prioritize safety and consider hiring professionals for projects that require specialized skills or heavy equipment.

While it may be tempting to see beautiful before-and-after photos on social media and want to immediately break down walls, starting small is a great way for beginners to build confidence in their diy skills. Begin with a smaller project, such as repainting a room or installing new light fixtures, and work your way up to larger projects. Choosing high-quality tools and supplies from Social Circle Ace Home Center will also help ensure you have the proper equipment to complete your DIY project successfully.

Home improvement is the process of improving the home, including maintenance and repair tasks. It also includes additions and changes to the home, such as installing a pool or replacing a kitchen window. Home improvements are often costly, so it is important to plan carefully before starting a project. Choosing the right projects can increase your home’s value and make it easier to sell in the future.

Many homeowners undertake home improvement projects to add value and appeal to potential buyers. These projects may include renovating the kitchen, adding an outdoor living space, or redoing a bathroom. While these projects are common, not all improve a home’s value. Some projects actually detract from a home’s value and can even reduce its marketability.

When making decisions about home improvements, consider how they will affect resale value and the quality of your life in the home. For example, installing a swimming pool or custom kitchen cabinets may not pay off if your neighborhood doesn’t appreciate these features or if you can’t afford to maintain them.

The home improvement is a broad term that covers any renovation, alteration, remodeling, repair, or replacement of the exterior, interior, or structure of a residential or non-commercial property. This can include anything from a new roof or gutters to a patio cover or swimming pool. It can also be an extension of a current living space, such as a sunroom or garage conversion.

For most homeowners, the home improvement is a labor of love that involves a significant time and financial commitment. While it can be fun and rewarding, the financial cost of home improvement can quickly escalate. This article will help homeowners avoid the most common home improvement mistakes that can be costly and provide tips for minimizing the impact of home improvement projects on a family’s budget.

The best way to increase the value of a home is through routine home maintenance and repairs. This is not only good for the overall health of a home, but it also helps keep up with resale values and maintains a high level of livability. In addition, regular maintenance can identify small issues before they become a major problem and allows for the possibility of inexpensive fixes, such as replacing outdated light fixtures with more modern versions. However, some homeowners may also choose to complete more extensive projects to increase the aesthetics of their homes or prepare for a future sale. These projects can be expensive and require specialized skills.

Home improvement online is a huge industry that covers everything from advice and tips to full-scale home renovation projects. Popular platforms like Pinterest allow users to collect and share visual ideas, while others like Houzz connect homeowners with professionals for project assistance. The COVID lockdown and rising remote work trends have also fueled the DIY movement, allowing more consumers to take on home improvement projects that would typically require professional help.

The best home improvement websites for DIY enthusiasts offer a combination of inspiration, practical advice, and community support. Many of these sites also provide comprehensive guides and step-by-step tutorials for a wide range of projects. They also feature interactive design tools that make it easy to test out different layouts and color schemes for a room. Some sites even offer expert advice on choosing the right materials for a project.

Some home improvement websites also offer a number of financial services to help homeowners with their projects. These can include financing options, which allow homeowners to pay for their projects over time without having to tap into their savings or go into debt. This can be particularly useful for those who are new to home improvement or have limited funds available to them.

In addition to offering financial services, some of the top home improvement websites also offer a variety of instructional resources for their customers. These can include how-to videos, detailed tutorials, and DIY articles that cover everything from painting to tiling. They also often include videos from reputable experts, which can give them an extra layer of credibility.

The home improvement website Bob Vila offers a wide range of articles and videos on various topics related to home improvements. They also offer a newsletter that keeps readers updated on the latest news and tips about home improvement. They also have a helpful blog that can help homeowners with their own projects.

Another great home improvement website is Family Handyman. They describe themselves as DIYers’ best friend, and they have a huge library of how-to videos, tutorials, and digital resource guides for just about any project you can think of. In addition, they have a large selection of tools and equipment that you can use for your home improvement project.

A final great home improvement site is CostHelper. This website helps you estimate the cost of a home improvement project so you can make the best decision about which type of work to do. This site has a database that allows you to select the type of job you need and then provides an overview of the process, including how much it should cost.

One of the most important things to do when designing a home improvement website is to understand your audience. This will allow you to tailor your content to their needs and preferences, which will increase your chances of turning them into satisfied customers. For example, you might want to include a contact page where people can leave their name and email address. This will make it easier for you to follow up with them and get a quote on their project.

Home upgrades are an excellent way to improve your home and increase its value. However, deciding whether to tackle diy home renovation projects or hire a professional contractor is an important decision. Ultimately, both have their pros and cons. Weighing the pros and cons of each will help you determine which route is best for you.

Cost Savings

The biggest advantage of DIY home improvement is the money you can save by doing the work yourself rather than hiring a professional contractor. You can also save on materials by purchasing items in bulk or from discount stores.

Gaining New Skills

Another benefit of DIY projects is learning a new skill. For example, if you’re thinking of installing a ceiling fan, it can be a great beginner-friendly project that builds up your confidence and knowledge. You can also learn how to troubleshoot problems as they arise. This can help you be better prepared for more complicated projects in the future.

Boosting Your Social Life

DIY projects are an excellent way to spend time with friends and family. Not only can they be fun, but they can also provide a sense of accomplishment. Moreover, these projects can be a great way to break up the monotony of everyday life. For instance, if you have old buddies that haven’t seen each other in awhile, consider bringing them together to complete a DIY project and rekindle your friendships.

Adding More Storage Space

Increasing the amount of storage space in your home can be beneficial for organization and efficiency. Whether you’re looking to add more closet or under-stair storage, there are many options that are inexpensive and easy to install. These upgrades can also be a great way to add a personalized touch to your home.

Bathroom Upgrades

If you’re planning to sell your home in the future, bathroom upgrades can have a big impact on your home’s value. Cosmetic improvements, such as painting the bathroom and replacing fixtures, are a good place to start when considering DIY projects. Other popular upgrades include tiling the shower walls and installing a new tub.

Kitchen Upgrades

Having an updated kitchen is one of the top things that can add to your home’s value. DIY projects, such as replacing light fixtures and faucets, painting cabinets, and upgrading the flooring, are simple ways to revamp your kitchen. You can also add a backsplash or replace your sink countertops for an added touch of style.

According to Remodeling Magazine’s annual Cost vs. Value report, some major projects can recoup your entire investment. Replacing your roof, garage door, and windows are examples of upgrades that can significantly boost your home’s value. However, if you’re not comfortable doing the work yourself, these projects may be better left to professionals.