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Home Improvement was a runaway hit for ABC and thrust Tim Allen into stardom. Richard Karn was initially brought on board for a pilot as Tim’s sidekick, Al Borland.

He later went on to star in the Air Bud series and the Hulu show Ctrl as well as host Family Feud and PEN15. He is returning to the small screen 30 years after Home Improvement in History Channel’s new building competition series Assembly Required (working title).

Tim Allen

Tim Allen is a multifaceted talent who has built a successful career in film, television, comedy, and automotive marketing. His activism and philanthropic endeavors have also added depth to his persona. He has become an icon in the entertainment industry and a role model for many.

He was born in Denver, Colorado, on June 13, 1953, to Martha Katherine (Fox) and Gerald M. Dick. His father was killed in a car accident when he was 11 years old, an event that shaped his life forever.

On a dare, he began his comedy career in 1975 at the Comedy Castle in Royal Oak, Michigan. He attended Western Michigan University and worked as a student radio personality while pursuing a degree in television production.

He has starred in several blockbuster films and television series, including Home Improvement. He has also voiced Buzz Lightyear in several Disney animated movies. He has even made forays into documentary filmmaking, narrating Disney’s nature film Chimpanzee.

Richard Karn

Richard Karn is an American actor and game show host. He is best known for his role as Al Borland on the hit ABC sitcom Home Improvement and for hosting Family Feud and GSN’s Bingo America. He has also appeared in a number of off-Broadway and regional productions. He is a spokesperson for Wayne-Dalton garage doors and hosts the Richard Karn Celebrity Golf Classic in Seattle, which raises money for the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center and Seattle’s Overlake Hospital.

The actor has a long list of film and television appearances, including roles on Air Bud, Snow Buddies, Desperately Seeking Susan, and Last Man Standing. He currently recurs in the Hulu series Pen15 and has hosted several shows, including Family Feud. Karn is married to actress Tudi Roche and they have one son. He is a native of Seattle, Washington. His mother, Louise Wilson, was a painter and died of bone marrow cancer in 1983.

Earl Hindman

Although he only appeared in the final episode of Home Improvement in 1998, Jonathan Taylor Thomas, who played middle child Randy on the show, became a ’90s heartthrob. He left the show after that to focus on his academics and went on to a career in environmental studies.

Earl Hindman, who portrayed Wilson the neighbor whose face was obscured by a fence on the show, died in 2003 at age 61 from lung cancer. He was born in Bisbee, Arizona and began acting while he was in high school. He worked in regional and off-Broadway theater before settling in New York City, where he had a lengthy acting career on both TV and film.

Model Debbe Dunning replaced Anderson as Heidi, the Tool Time Girl, beginning in 1992 and staying until the end of the show’s run. She went on to appear in Baywatch and a few other TV shows, but has remained mostly out of the spotlight since then.

Pamela Richardson

Actress Patricia Richardson is best known for her role as Jill Taylor on the ’90s sitcom Home Improvement. She has also starred in several other television shows and has earned a net worth of $20 million. She has also appeared in theater and commercials.

After acting in a number of regional and Broadway theater productions, she began booking commercials for products like fabric softener and diapers. She soon booked TV ads for these products and found that they paid much better than the theatre.

Pamela was written during the Enlightenment, a period in history that was marked by new developments in science, philosophy, and culture. It is often considered to be a feminist work, as it rejects traditional views of women and promotes new roles for them. However, the novel’s emphasis on Pamela’s fear of losing her virtue and the poor treatment of her by Mr. B are also problematic for some feminists.

While HGTV shows make it seem like home improvements always yield a solid return on investment, the truth is that not all renovations add value. Especially during a pandemic, it’s important to focus on upgrades that increase functional square footage and bring your property in line with the neighborhood.

For instance, finishing a basement is one upgrade that typically yields a good ROI. Another is replacing your outdated appliances with energy-efficient ones.

Kitchen

One of the most common reasons homeowners remodel is to modernize their kitchens with state-of-the-art appliances or to update the style to reflect their tastes. Other factors that inspire a kitchen upgrade include improving energy efficiency, expanding storage space, or making the space more family-friendly.

Oftentimes, upgrading kitchen functionality requires a more substantial change to the existing layout such as adding a pantry or reconfiguring cabinetry. However, even smaller changes like painting cabinets or changing the hardware on them can refresh the look of your kitchen without changing the overall layout.

Another simple, low-cost way to upgrade your kitchen is with a new backsplash. There are so many options out there from patterned tile to faux shiplap or even brushed metals which all work beautifully with various kitchen styles.

Lastly, consider updating your lighting fixtures. It’s an easy way to brighten up a room and can make the biggest difference. You can also add cabinet lighting to organize your utensils and cookware.

Bathroom

Bathrooms are used daily and can really take a beating. Even a small remodel can make your home more comfortable and increase its value.

New fixtures and appliances can improve energy efficiency in your home, helping you save money on utilities. Adding low-flow shower heads, faucets, and toilets is one of the most common ways to go green and make your bathroom more efficient.

You can also use a remodel to make your bathroom more comfortable by increasing storage. New cabinets and vanities can create more space to keep your belongings organized and free from clutter.

A dated or outdated bathroom can be a real turn-off for potential buyers, making your home less valuable. Adding a second full bath to your home is one of the most cost-effective ways to add value to your property. It makes the home more comfortable and appealing for you and any future owners. It will also make it easier to sell your house in the future.

Living Area

A living area is the total floor space used for direct habitation by a building’s residents. It includes not only apartment areas but also corridors, lift lobbies and other technical rooms that serve the building but are not used for direct living purposes. It is important that the correct living area calculation is used, particularly when comparing different buildings or apartments.

In Home Designer, the Living Area label is automatically generated and reports the area of the current floor specified as a livable space. It is recalculated every time you add, remove, resize or redefine a room or other structural object. By default, interior type rooms are included in this calculation, while exterior and hybrid type rooms are not. You can control which types are included in this calculation by using the Room Specification dialog.

You can change the way Living Area is calculated in the General Plan Defaults dialog, selecting either to measure from the walls’ main layer (the outer structural layer) or their surface.

Bedroom

Your bedroom is a place to rest and relax, so it should feel inviting and warm. If your bedroom is not up to par, you may want to consider upgrading it with unique additions that make the space feel more authentically yours.

If buying new furniture isn’t in the budget, you can still upgrade your bedroom by editing what is currently there and rearranging how it is arranged. This can help to improve the flow of the room so that you don’t run into things in the middle of the night or find yourself tripping over items on your way to sleep.

Bedroom upgrades also include furniture, like replacing nightstands with a sleek armoire or adding a storage ottoman for a pop of color and extra functionality. Other upgrades include lighting, such as switching to LED bulbs, which are a cost-effective change that reduces energy consumption and creates a stunning vibe in your home. You can also add a dimmer switch to let you easily set the mood in your bedroom.

Harmony home improvements offers a tailored approach to real estate. They specialize in purchasing properties “as-is,” enabling homeowners to bypass time-consuming and costly renovations.

They also function as real estate investors, absorbing the financial burdens associated with repairs. Their streamlined sale process is especially beneficial for those who may have limited resources.

3. Create a Sanctuary

Depending on your needs and the activities you enjoy, a self-care space can be as simple as a reading chair and soft rug for meditation and yoga or as large as an artistic studio or home gym. Either way, the most important aspect is a personal narrative and flexibility to adapt the space to your ever-changing lifestyle.

When creating a personal oasis, try adding a few small touches that help you feel calm and happy, like an essential oil diffuser, a plant or a cozy blanket. Using natural lighting with a dimmer helps keep the mood soft and relaxing.

A home should not only be beautiful, but it should also support mental health. That’s why Harmony Home Buyers prioritizes putting people first. Their transparent dealings and open communication with sellers help to alleviate stress by circumventing the typically hefty expenses associated with home repairs and renovations.

4. Create a Shared Space

If you share a home with family or roommates, be sure to set boundaries for personal space and activities. This will help prevent conflict and frustration over who can use what spaces when, and how.

If possible, design multipurpose areas that can change with your lifestyle over time. This might include a workout area that can double as a playroom, or a laundry room that can also serve as a pantry.

Keep shared areas clean and clutter free. Clutter can make it difficult to find items and can be frustrating for everyone who uses the area. Donate or sell unused items and assign responsibilities for maintaining organized areas in your home. If you need help improving your home, Harmony Home Improvement offers roofing, siding, gutters, replacement windows, and additions.

5. Get Organized

A clean and organized home is essential to your overall sense of well-being. However, the task of sprucing up your space can be overwhelming and daunting. Vig recommends starting small and tackling one room at a time, while keeping the most important goal in mind. A key to organizing your home is creating a place for everything and storing things where they are used most often. This helps to keep the clutter at bay and also increases the likelihood that items will get put away. If you’re ready to make your home a better place to live, contact us at Harmony Home Improvement llc for kitchen and bathroom remodeling, windows, doors, roofing, and siding services.

Home improvement projects can increase the value of a home or simply make living in it better. The industry is booming, and there are plenty of customers to go around.

Some examples of home improvement companies include The Home Depot, Lowe’s Companies, Kohl’s, Williams-Sonoma, and Mohawk Industries. These firms are working hard to expand their businesses through strategic acquisitions and network expansion.

Leroy Merlin Studio

Leroy Merlin Studio offers a range of services, including a complete renovation of a studio. Their team of experts is available to help customers design their renovations and find the best products. Their expertise is based on the needs of each client and their lifestyle. They also offer free e-learning courses to teach people how to renovate their homes themselves.

Leroy Merlin Studio has a number of different ways to contact customer service, including through their Facebook page and Twitter account. They also have an application that allows customers to locate their nearest store. The company has also expanded its presence in the digital world by launching an online marketplace with a careful selection of specialized sellers. This new channel allows them to offer a broader range of products and services. They have a large customer base and are well-known in Europe. Leroy Merlin is currently one of the largest home improvement retailers in the world.

Woodbridge Home Solutions

Founded in 1989, Woodbridge Home Solutions offers a range of energy-efficient windows and doors, siding, kitchen cabinet refacing, and tub to shower conversions. Located in Dallas, Texas, the company serves homeowners throughout the state and South Central US. Private equity’s interest in the industry continues to grow with this acquisition, bringing Woodbridge into the Renovo portfolio alongside the likes of Dreamstyle Remodeling, Remodel USA, and Alure Home Improvements.

The company is a one-stop-shop for homeowners looking to improve their property’s value and curb appeal. Licensed and insured installation specialists provide high-quality replacement windows, patio doors, vinyl siding, and more. They also offer quick turnaround on bath and kitchen remodels. Woodbridge also specializes in specialty window types such as transoms and sidelites, which frame an entrance door and illuminate the entryway without compromising privacy and security. They are available in a variety of styles and designs, making them the perfect addition to any home. *Message and data rates may apply. Consent to receive texts is required. You may unsubscribe at any time.

Great Day Improvements

Great Day Improvements offers a wide range of renovation services, including sunrooms, Florida rooms, screen rooms, porch enclosures, patio doors, replacement windows and more. The company also installs shingle roofs, siding, and gutter systems for home improvements.

Headquartered in Macedonia, Ohio, Great Day Improvements is a vertically integrated direct-to-consumer provider of premium home improvement products. Its brand portfolio includes Patio Enclosures, Champion Windows and Home Exteriors, Universal Windows Direct, Stanek Windows, Apex Energy Solutions, Hartshorn Custom Contracting, Your Home Improvement Company, K-Designers, and The Bath Authority.

In 2024, the company boosted its offerings by acquiring Hpawindows and Your Home Improvement Company. Both companies have been serving homeowners in the Northern US for more than two decades, specializing in windows, doors, roofing, and bathroom remodeling services. Their customer-first approach and commitment to excellence, expertise, responsibility, and value set them apart from other home improvement companies. In addition, the company’s recognition on industry lists, such as Remodeling Magazine’s 550 and Qualified Remodeler’s Top 500 List, further enhances its brand reputation.

HUD home improvement loans can be a great way to save money on essential upgrades. These government-backed loans can be easier to qualify for than traditional mortgages.

The best home improvement loans for you will depend on your credit score and the type of renovation you need. Read more about hud home improvement loans at NerdWallet.

203(k) Loans

If you want to purchase a home in need of significant renovations, consider using a 203(k) loan. These loans bundle the cost of a mortgage with the costs of improvements, and you only have to put down as little as 3.5% down. This allows you to make renovations that aren’t possible with a regular rehab loan, and it also means that your loan payments will be based on the total value of the property once the work is completed.

FHA 203(k) loans are available for both new construction and existing properties. They offer a more flexible mortgage with less red tape than standard loan programs. The 203(k) program is designed to finance the repair and renovation of single-family homes, including structural repairs such as foundations or roofs, room additions, modernization of kitchens and bathrooms, and projects that increase energy efficiency and climate resilience.

There are two 203(k) loan options: the standard 203(k) and the limited 203(k). The limited product caters to minor remodeling and non-structural repairs, with a timeline for completion that’s typically less than 6 months, and no consultant requirement. The standard 203(k) loan is designed for more extensive renovations, and requires the services of an FHA-approved consultant to oversee project planning, contractor selection, and draw inspections.

The FHA has recently made several updates to the 203(k) program, which are expected to enhance its effectiveness and flexibility. These include: increasing the maximum allowable renovation cost on the limited product; adding a contingency reserve to both products, allowing for up to 20% of total project costs to be financed; and increasing the allowable fees that consultants can levy on homeowners – a first update to these fees since 1995.

For more information about these updates, talk to your trusted mortgage professional. They’ll be able to help you find the right option for your home improvement needs, and give you tips on how best to approach the 203(k) process.

Title I Loans

HUD offers a number of home improvement programs. These include Title 1 loans, streamlined 203(k) loans and 203(k) refinances. Each type of loan can cover different types of renovation projects. For example, Title 1 loans can cover exterior painting and roof repairs. Unlike 203(k) loans, these loans don’t require a minimum loan amount and they can be used for single-family homes.

In order to qualify for a Title I loan, you’ll need to meet certain requirements. These include a good credit history and the ability to repay the loan on time. In addition, you’ll need to provide the lender with proof of income and employment. You’ll also need to have a debt-to-income ratio below 45%.

To apply for a Title I loan, you’ll want to start by searching the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s (HUD) list of approved lenders. You can find a lender in your area by entering your zip code into the search tool on the HUD website. Once you’ve found a lender, you’ll need to submit a complete application. You’ll need to provide the lender with an itemized list of the work that you plan to do to your property, as well as a description of any related expenses such as engineering or architectural fees, title, permit and appraisal fees.

A Title I home improvement loan is a great option for homeowners who are looking to make major repairs or upgrades but don’t have enough equity in their home to use a mortgage or home equity line of credit. You can use the loan for a variety of repairs and renovations, including adding a new bathroom or kitchen, installing an accessible shower or a stairlift, adding a porch or deck and making energy-efficient upgrades. You can even use the money to repair a sagging foundation or replace an old roof. In some cases, you may be able to borrow up to $25,000 for your renovation project.

If you are thinking about doing home improvements, you should consider hiring a licensed contractor. They should have extensive experience and references from past projects. They should also be bonded and insured.

Large-scale projects like kitchen remodels, room additions and swimming pools often require a general contractor. They have networks of vendors with better pricing than you would get at a local hardware store and they know how to navigate the permit process.

Do Your Research

It is essential to know what you want done before selecting a contractor. This will help to eliminate unscrupulous contractors who may try to convince you to have extra work done or over-charge you for materials. Write a list of all the work that you want to be done, and be as specific as possible. This will allow you to easily compare estimates from different contractors and make a well-informed decision.

A good general contractor will be able to work with you to ensure that the specifications of your project are met. They will also be familiar with local building codes and regulations.

Ask friends and neighbors for recommendations, and check out the online reviews of the home improvement contractors you are considering. It is important to find out if the contractor you choose has workers’ compensation and general liability insurance. This will protect you if an employee is injured on the job or damage occurs to your property.

Get Referrals

Referral services are one of the best ways for contractors to get new business. They typically pay a fee to the contractor for each lead they deliver, often based on per month or geographic region.

Asking previous clients for referrals is one of the most effective ways to generate new connections, and the vast majority of people trust friend recommendations – especially when it comes to home improvement projects. Keeping projects on budget and schedule, as well as maintaining professional communication with clients during and after the project is also essential in generating good client feedback.

A renovation company can further promote their reputation and encourage positive reviews through their website or social media channels. Sharing practical tips and ideas on social media, as well as offering contests for customers who make referrals can also help a renovation business stand out from competitors. Additionally, investing in equipment like the RB4000 raisable, drivable container and CR8400 compact mobile crane can streamline work on jobsites and keep them cleaner and safer, which are all factors homeowners notice and appreciate.

Check Their Insurance

Home improvement contractors must have a license to perform work on your home and liability insurance to protect you in the event of property damage. You should request estimates from several different contractors to compare them apples-to-apples. If an estimate seems significantly lower than others, it could be a sign of inaccurate or incomplete work.

Make sure the contract is clear about the scope of the work and includes a detailed timeline for completion, payment schedule, and other important information. You should also ask how the contractor will handle “change-orders,” which are requests for additional work that didn’t originally appear in the bid.

A good home improvement contractor will be able to provide an accurate timeline for the project and will be willing to adjust it accordingly as the project progresses. They should also be able to communicate clearly with you and your insurance adjuster. If you find that a contractor isn’t responsive, it may be time to move on.

Check Their Credentials

It is important to do your homework and verify the contractor’s credentials and licenses. This will ensure a smooth project and help protect you from scams and frauds.

A reputable contractor will be licensed and insured, and will have references from previous clients to provide proof of their quality of work and professionalism. They will also be able to provide you with a detailed contract that includes a project timeline and payment schedule. They will also be able to tell you where your payments will go and make sure they are kept in an escrow account until the job is substantially complete.

A good contractor will always be aware of local and industry codes, and will obtain all necessary permits for your renovation project. They will understand OSHA regulations and will maintain a safe work environment, which helps prevent accidents and damages to your property. In addition, a good contractor will know how to save you money on materials and supplies through wholesale pricing or vendor accounts.

We remodel our homes for a variety of reasons. It might be an epiphany that avocado green and harvest gold are no longer in style or a realization that we don’t have enough storage space for all of our stuff.

If you are considering remodeling your home, it’s important to choose a contractor carefully. Here are some tips to help you do so.

Design-Build Firms

Homeowners have the option of working with a design-build firm that can handle both the architecture and construction phases of their home remodel. This streamlined process is often more cost efficient than working with a designer and general contractor separately.

Design-build firms should be held accountable for their timelines and budgets, says Mickley. He explains that when changes are made to the original scope of work, it can cause back and forth between architects and general contractors—which can delay the project for weeks. With a design-build firm, however, those revisions will be evaluated in real-time and costs will be updated accordingly.

Tambi Kat, principal of a New York City-based design-build company called Bolster, emphasizes the importance of transparent pricing, financial guarantees, and an efficient design-build process. His team is dedicated to eliminating the risks associated with major home renovations, ensuring clients pay no unexpected costs and projects are completed two weeks early on average. For example, Bolster recently renovated a Manhattan brownstone to include a contemporary kitchen and a new open floor plan.

General Contractors

Licensed general contractors (GCs) are the lead professionals on major construction and remodeling projects. They manage teams of subcontractors that handle the specialized aspects of each project and secure all permits.

GCs may take on a fixed price project or work under a cost-plus contract. Typically, they collect quotes from several qualified specialized subcontractors and add their own overhead costs to submit a quote. They then perform the work for that amount, and any additional savings become additional profit for the GC.

Reputable GCs have solid relationships with vendors and subcontractors and can negotiate a better price for materials and labor. They provide quality workmanship that exceeds clients’ expectations and respect their homes and belongings by outlines plans for maintaining cleanliness and minimizing disruptions throughout the renovation process.

Full-Service Remodelers

A full service remodeler employs a team of professionals dedicated to your project until it’s finished. This approach not only ensures that your renovation is done right the first time, but it also speeds up completion times because the team doesn’t have to wait for a subcontractor to finish their work.

Another benefit of working with a full-service firm is that they’re familiar with local zoning laws and permits. This means that they can help you avoid costly mistakes that could delay your renovation or result in an expensive permit fine.

If you’re looking for a home remodeler that’s familiar with your neighborhood, share your project details with us now. We’ll match you with highly-rated local pros and provide quotes so you can compare.

What to Look for in a Remodeling Contractor

The right remodeling contractor will work with you to make sure that the scope of your project, timeline, and payment schedule are all clearly defined. They should also provide a detailed cost estimate that includes any unanticipated occurrences that might affect the budget.

Be sure to ask about their company’s experience and references. A reputable contractor will be happy to share testimonials and a portfolio of previous projects. Look for photos of completed rooms that include close-ups as well as a wide view of each space.

You should also discuss the company’s warranty. Find out what the length of the warranty is and whether it covers labor as well as materials. Also, find out if they can offer a fixed-price contract. This ensures that you’ll know exactly what the project costs are before it begins. If a home remodeler is reluctant to discuss these details, it might be time to consider other options.

Simple home renovations are great for making your home feel new without spending a lot of money. They can also make your house more appealing to potential buyers if you plan on selling it in the future.

Make sure to budget for any extra costs that may arise during your renovation. Your location and the scope of the work will impact permit fees and other expenses.

Kitchen

A kitchen overhaul can dramatically impact a home’s value, but it can also be incredibly costly. If you’re ready for a change but don’t have the budget to revamp your entire floor plan, consider updating only your cabinet doors or installing a new backsplash. These small touches go a long way, appearance-wise, and will limit the need for future maintenance.

In this farmhouse kitchen, DIY homeowner Claire Zinnicker carved out new windows and painted the walls white to brighten the space. She also added salvaged wood open shelving, combining a mix of old and new to create an inviting vibe.

If you’re looking for a more substantial upgrade, consider swapping out your sink hardware and faucet. These affordable items are a great opportunity to add a splash of personality. Try opting for warmer-toned finishes, such as brass, and coordinating your hardware to the rest of your décor. You can also splurge on a custom backsplash that showcases your unique style.

Bathroom

Many homeowners start a bathroom remodel with big plans like swapping out the vanity or installing tile flooring, but small changes can make a noticeable impact for less money. Painting the room is one of the least expensive upgrades and can make even a small bathroom feel larger. If you’re going the DIY route, be sure to purchase paint that is moisture-hardy and formulated for bathrooms.

Alternatively, consider a new tub or shower curtain to add a fresh look that doesn’t break the bank. Swapping out the sink faucet can also instantly improve a bathroom’s style.

Before starting a remodel, take “before” pictures and clear out the space for work to begin. Also, make sure to have alternative bathing arrangements in place while work is underway. And finally, be sure to mark the location of electrical wiring and plumbing pipes so you don’t accidentally damage them.

Living Room

Whether you’re binging Mare of Easttown or hosting an epic game of Settlers of Catan, the living room is the heart of the home. Simple updates can make it feel like a whole new space.

Installing crown molding is a classic home improvement project that adds elegance to any room, especially in the living room. Many styles are available, and many are affordable. You don’t even need to remove existing flooring for this budget-friendly project.

If you have older windows, a few simple curtains or valances can hide them and give the room an instant facelift. There are plenty of sew-it-yourself options, and materials for a 16 by 20-foot space can cost less than $1,000.

Traditionally, living rooms were more elegant spaces where you’d display artwork and fancy antiques. Today, with open floor plans blurring the lines between family, dining, and kitchen areas, the living room is more of a meeting spot for daily life.

Exterior

A well-researched and planned home exterior makeover can add a lot of value to your property. A new coat of paint or a front door with decorative trims can provide a high ROI when it comes time to sell your house.

An updated look to the exterior can also help you achieve your goals for a greener living environment and improved energy efficiency. New windows and doors in a variety of shapes, sizes and finishes can reduce the amount of heat your home loses while introducing natural light and a modern look.

Simple home renovations in the exterior can include a new porch railing, shutters and bushes or a well-designed landscaping project that complements your style and adds a touch of serenity to your backyard. A fountain or koi pond can become an eye-catching feature, and even an eco-friendly water feature like an artificial stream or waterfall can be a great way to bring your family together for fun and relaxation.

Yard improvements are one of the most cost-effective ways to add value to your home. The key is to choose the right improvements.

A well-maintained lawn, clean flower beds and simple hardscaping can all boost curb appeal without breaking the bank. Backyard ‘living rooms’ are another no-brainer backyard renovation that can pay off come time to sell.

1. Outdoor Kitchen and Living Area

One of the most popular and valuable backyard improvements is a professionally designed outdoor kitchen. This upgrade shows that a home is well cared for and makes it easier to entertain, which many potential buyers appreciate.

An upgraded outdoor kitchen is a great way to increase livable square footage and make entertaining more enjoyable for all family members and guests. It is also a selling point when it comes time to put the house on the market.

Backyard ‘living rooms’ can also improve usable space by adding shade, something that is especially important in warmer climates. This can be done with a patio cover or by incorporating an arbor with vines or eucalyptus wood. Landscape additions like these also add value and are easy to do on a budget.

2. Fire Pit

A backyard fire pit is a classic addition for any outdoor living space. It can be wood-burning or gas powered and adds a cozy atmosphere to your backyard for entertaining and relaxing. A well-maintained backyard fire pit can also increase a home’s value.

If you have a smaller yard, you can make the most of your space by installing a stone fire pit with built-in bench seating. Adding pavers and a flowerbed around your fire pit can help distinguish the area as a designated gathering spot.

If you have a wood-burning fire pit, save the ashes instead of throwing them away. Ash has dozens of practical uses, including being used as plant fertiliser in gardens and flowerbeds. It can also be sprinkled on sidewalks and driveways during the winter to melt ice and snow.

3. Deck

As the most visible feature of a backyard, a deck can significantly boost a home’s value. However, homeowners should always reference local building codes and homeowners’ associations to ensure a deck will meet and maintain their community’s standards when finished.

Decks are a great way to separate a yard and provide a spot for entertaining and relaxing. Decks can be surrounded by a lush plant border to add privacy and further define the space.

A simple way to refresh a deck is to paint it. Fresh stain or paint not only looks great, but it also helps protect against rot and moisture over time. Be sure to power wash and sand your deck before applying a new coat. Then, personalize your deck with furniture and accents in fun colors to match the rest of the garden.

4. Turf

In horticulture, turf refers to grass. Well-maintained lawns protect soil from water and wind erosion, absorb runoff, and reduce dust, noise, and heat irradiation. They also provide a natural habitat for wildlife and are valuable for recreational purposes.

When planting from seed, follow recommended rates and guard against overseeding. Keep newly planted areas uniformly moist until germination and emergence.

Backyard improvements like this don’t just increase your curb appeal – they add value to your home and can make it more likely that you’ll turn a profit when you sell. These backyard improvements will also help your family live healthier lives by encouraging outdoor physical activity. And, of course, they’ll make your home a beautiful place to entertain friends and loved ones.

5. Patio

A backyard patio can add value to your home. It’s also a great way to make your home a better place for kids and families. It helps them learn to be healthy and active outdoors.

This patio features a new pergola and pool, creating a beautiful outdoor space to dine, relax, and spend time with family and friends. Streamlined patio furniture and modern fences establish a simple color palette that complements the back of the house. Pea gravel offers a low-maintenance alternative to grass, and a gas fire pit provides ambiance in the evenings.

Adding distinct zones in your backyard can help it appear larger, according to the Shoreline Pools landscaping team. Separate areas for dining and lounging allow you to use your yard more effectively.

Home upgrades don’t always require a large budget or team of contractors. Often it’s the little changes that elevate your home’s beauty or functionality.

Adding storage to your home and upgrading your light fixtures are simple but effective ways to add value. Other projects with great return on investment include finishing the basement and installing energy-efficient home appliances.

Paint the Front Door

The front door is the first thing people notice about your home, and painting it a vibrant hue can boost curb appeal. It’s also one of the most cost-effective and simple projects to take on over a weekend.

Before starting, remove any hardware like the doorknob or deadbolt lock. Then, wipe down the surface to remove any dust and grime. Next, sand the door lightly to roughen up the surface and prep it for paint.

Umana recommends using a high-quality exterior latex paint, rather than the cheap stuff you can find at Home Depot or Lowe’s. It’ll last longer and look better. Before committing to a color, tape some swatches to the door and view them at different times of day to see how they look in natural light.

Upgrade Your House Numbers

Having clearly displayed house numbers does more than just aid in finding your address; it enhances curb appeal as well. Choose number designs that complement your home’s architectural style, whether sleek and minimalist or ornate and detailed.

A common place to display your house numbers is on or near the front door. However, if this area isn’t visible from the road (or it doesn’t have enough space for your house numbers) try mounting them on a door frame, like Julian Porcino did here, or even your curb.

If you need help installing your new house numbers, a Tasker can do it for you. Get an estimate today!.

Power-Wash the Exterior

Over time, the weather and pollutants take a toll on your home’s exterior. A little power washing goes a long way in boosting curb appeal, priming surfaces for painting, preventing damage, and returning the surface to its original glory.

Before you get started, however, be sure to test any area for lead paint. The force of a power washer can dislodge and spread this hazardous material.

If you do find traces of lead paint, consult the proper cleaning instructions to remove it. Otherwise, the experts at Lowes provide a handy step-by-step guide for this easy house upgrade. It’s also a great idea to power wash your gutters. Without them, water could overflow and cause leakage or rot in the foundation. This is an important task that’s easy to overlook.

Refinish Your Hardwood Floors

Hardwood floors add a lot of value to a home and are attractive to potential buyers. If your hardwoods are looking a bit worn, however, refinishing or resurfacing can revive them and make the entire home look better.

Refinishing involves sanding the wood to remove years of wear and tear. Skilled refinishers can even repair some types of damage, such as deep scratches and dents, with stain or varnish.

Refinishing can be more expensive than replacing the hardwoods, but it’s still an easy house upgrade that pays off. A new coat of stain or varnish can refresh the look of the floor and protect it for years to come. Hardwood floors that are refinished are also more appealing to potential buyers, so you’ll get a good return on your investment when it comes time to sell.

Change Your Light Fixtures

Replacing your basic big-box store boob light fixtures with something a little more stylish can elevate the look of your home for a relatively inexpensive price. Then switch to dimmer switches and you can create different moods in any room for an even more impressive upgrade.

Before you disconnect any wires, use a non-contact voltage detector to make sure there’s no electricity flowing through the junction box (ceiling or wall). Once it’s safe to remove the old fixture, follow the new one’s instructions for connecting the electrical wires.

The black wire usually connects to the exposed screw in the junction box, and the white and copper pair of wires might either attach to a green grounding screw or a dedicated copper wire coming from the ceiling (depending on your fixture). Connect them as instructed.