Home improvement is the process of modifying or repairing residential property to improve its comfort, appearance or efficiency. It encompasses a wide range of projects, including painting, decorating, installing new fixtures, flooring or appliances, improving air conditioning and heating systems, adding porches, decks, garages, landscaping and more. This industry also includes the sale of building materials and services performed by contractors or handymen.
Home remodeling is often seen as a good way to increase the value of a home; however, not all improvements are created equal. Some add significantly more to a home’s resale value than others. Some homeowners also find that doing home improvement projects themselves increases the satisfaction and enjoyment they get from their homes.
According to Houzz, home remodeling has become a popular activity during the COVID-19 pandemic with many Americans reviving their passion for renovating. In 2022, a survey conducted by the National Association of Realtors found that after finishing one project, 86% of homeowners were motivated to further enhance their properties.
While there is no one-size-fits-all home improvement, experts recommend starting with projects that will deliver the greatest financial return. In general, kitchen and bathroom remodels, energy efficient windows, roof repairs, and adding insulation are high-impact projects that pay off when it comes time to sell a home.
The most important step in any home improvement project is to determine the goals of the renovation and how much you can afford to spend. Creating a budget and shopping around for quotes from reputable contractors are the best ways to keep your costs down. It is recommended that you do not hire any contractor without verifying their license and insurance. If hiring someone for a big project, consider working with an aggregator that matches service providers to customers.
While it may be tempting to wing it during a renovation, this approach can lead to costly mistakes that can derail your project and blow your budget. It is essential to set clear, non-negotiables for your renovation before beginning work. This will help you avoid splurges that may not add value to your home, such as upgrading to the highest-end appliances or fixtures.
The eighth season of Home Improvement aired in 1998, and the series ended after Jonathan Taylor Thomas left for an environmental studies program in Costa Rica. He did not appear in the final episode, but was portrayed by archived footage for promotional purposes. Tim Allen, Richard Karn and Debbe Dunning all reprised their roles in a TV special titled Tim Allen Presents: A User’s Guide to Home Improvement in 2003 (a terminally ill Earl Hindman did voice-overs for Wilson). The special also included behind-the-scenes glimpses of the show’s cast and crew. The special is available for purchase on DVD.