Category: Uncategorized

When you’re looking to boost your home’s value, a lot of upgrades come to mind. But not every improvement will make you richer.

Many upgrades have a higher return on investment than others, depending on what’s already in the neighborhood and your own tastes. But a few key upgrades will increase your home’s value and your quality of life.

Kitchen

A kitchen remodel is a major investment, but it can increase your home’s value. Potential buyers won’t want to buy a home with an outdated or out-of-style kitchen.

A top kitchen upgrade is replacing dated appliances with modern stainless steel ones. They will stand out against the uniform cabinetry and look expensive, but will fit within any budget.

Resurfacing your countertops is another way to add new life to your kitchen without spending a fortune. You can choose to do this yourself, or bring in a professional.

Replacing old linoleum or vinyl flooring is also a quick and affordable way to give your kitchen a modern makeover. Reflooring can cost $3,000 to $15,000, but can pay off in the long run with a high ROI. You could even consider reflooring the entire home at once, to create continuity in your interior spaces.

Bathroom

Bathroom remodels are one of the best home improvements for increasing resale value. They are also the most popular projects for homeowners. Whether you are interested in adding a new vanity, toilet or more cabinets, this is a project that can add substantial value to your home.

Aside from the aesthetic changes you can make, consider ways to make your bathroom more environmentally friendly. Installing low-flow toilets, showerheads and faucets will help reduce your family’s water usage.

When it comes to a complete renovation, begin with the vanity and sink and then move on to the mirrors and cabinets. This is a good time to replace the lighting fixtures as well. It’s a good idea to call in an electrician for this task, especially if you have never worked with electrical wiring before. Then, install the toilet last to avoid chipping it while working around it. You’ll be amazed at how much of a difference even small upgrades can make to your home.

Basement

Despite its reputation as a dingy, damp storage area full of dust bunnies, the basement holds a lot of potential. Turn it into a cozy socializing space, family room or game room and you’ll likely add to your home’s resale value. Plus, compared to adding on, finishing the basement is a fairly inexpensive home improvement project.

Start by framing the walls to create a livable space. Don’t forget to insulate—it is much easier and less expensive to do before you hang drywall.

Depending on your planned use of the basement, consider adding a bathroom. This upgrade will require plumbing, electricity and flooring. It is also one of the most important upgrades you can make when it comes to resale value. Having an extra bathroom will be a huge selling point to buyers.

Exterior

While practical updates like a new roof or energy-efficient windows are the top of most homeowners’ wish lists, exterior upgrades are important for a number of reasons. They help preserve your property’s value, enhance curb appeal, and make a statement about your personal style.

Regardless of the specifics of your project, it’s important to start by creating a budget and padding it for unexpected expenses. Also, consider how your renovation will affect resale value. This will guide your choices later in the process.

For example, if you’re planning to sell your home in the future, it may not be worth spending money on a stone or wood-look facade that isn’t in keeping with current trends. It’s often best to stick with more neutral materials that will appeal to a wider range of potential buyers.

Harmony Home Improvement is a reliable and affordable home warranty company that provides homeowners with protection against unexpected appliance and system breakdowns. The company has an A+ rating with the BBB and works nationwide.

The Mnuks filed this action seeking a declaratory judgment modifying the easement agreements and other relief. Harmony Homes contends that the Mnuks’ claims are barred by the six-year statute of limitations for contract actions and that the easements should be terminated because they are impossible to build on due to the wetlands.

Color

Color can be a powerful force in your home renovation. The right color can make your home feel relaxing, welcoming, or energetic. The wrong color, however, can create a feeling of chaos and discord. Harmony Home Improvements is here to help you find the perfect balance of colors for your home remodeling project.

Our professional painting services can help you bring your vision to life. We use the highest quality paints and tools to ensure your paint job is done right. We will work with you to choose the best colors for your home and provide expert application to ensure a smooth, even coat of paint.

BuildZoom has not received any reviews for this contractor. You can be the first! Be alerted when reviews are posted for this contractor.

Texture

Adding texture to your home improvement projects is an easy way to create visual interest and add depth. Whether it’s wood planking on an accent wall or stone around the front door, incorporating these textures will give your project a more finished look. It’s also a great way to add visual interest to a smaller space. By combining several materials in your home improvement project, you can create a space that feels warm and inviting.

Harmony Home Improvements Inc is a general contractor in Orillia. They specialize in roofing, siding, windows and decks. They have been in business for over 10 years and have a BuildZoom score of 109. They have worked on 33 projects in the past 3 years. They have a good reputation for completing work on time and within budget.

Lighting

Replacing your windows is an easy and effective way to improve your home’s resale value and curb appeal. Harmony Home Improvements offers a wide variety of window options that will complement any design style. Their superior craftsmanship and access to manufacturer-backed materials make them the smart choice for exterior remodeling.

Outdoor lighting is a critical element of security in a residential community. It can deter criminals by making it difficult for them to hide and provides a clearer view of your property. Bulkhead and porch lights equipped with low power compact fluorescent lamps are kinder to the environment and have lower operating costs than high-powered landscape lighting.

To set up your Lutron Caseta Lights and Serena Shades, select MENU on your Harmony touchscreen remote and navigate to Add/Edit Devices & Activities > DEVICES. Press and hold the icon next to a group name to toggle all devices on or off, and select a bulb to adjust brightness. You can also create an Activity that controls both lights and shades, automatically setting them to the same level each time you start the activity.

Space

The renovation of Harmony Hall at Penn State Beaver is nearly complete. This 4.8 million dollar project will convert six community bathrooms and additional hallway space into eight single-user, gender-neutral bathroom suites. In addition to the new bathrooms, plumbing, electrical and air handling improvements will be made. In addition, contactless card readers will be updated to work with mobile credentials.

Watch the episode featuring Harmony Senior Services on Designing Spaces on Lifetime. Tune in Monday, February 13 at 7:30 AM (check your local listings). You can also stream the show online by visiting Lifetime’s website or downloading their app.

Home improvement is a term used to describe projects that make your home more comfortable and attractive. These projects can also increase your home’s value and make it easier to sell.

Choosing the right contractor is vital for any home remodeling project. Be sure to check out a company’s references and check their license.

Home Depot

Home Depot is one of the largest home improvement retailers in the world. Its 2,274 stores offer a variety of products and services to do-it-yourselfers and professional contractors. It sells construction materials, lumber, floor and wall coverings, hardware, paint, and tools. It also offers facilities maintenance products and supplies through its Maintenance Warehouse and custom window treatments by its subsidiary National Blind & Wallpaper Factory.

Home Depot focuses on customer satisfaction and is committed to offering competitive prices. Its pricing strategy includes matching online competitors’ prices and running sales on select items. It also offers special financing deals for customers who cannot afford to pay for large projects in full. The company also promotes greener home improvement products and has made environmental protection a priority.

Lowe’s

Lowe’s offers a variety of home improvement services. They also sell products such as kitchen, bathroom, electrical, flooring and paint. They offer a variety of brands that are suited to different budgets and tastes. They also offer installation services that are covered by a double labor warranty.

Lowes is also expanding its selection of home decor items. Its CEO, Marvin Ellison, recently announced the launch of a new line called Origin21. The collection will be available at 2,000 Lowe’s stores and online.

The company is based in Wilkesboro, North Carolina, and is the second largest hardware chain worldwide. It focuses on serving building contractor businesses and do-it-yourself customers. It operates more than 400 stores in the United States and Canada. Each store targets new construction contractors, repair and remodeling contractors, and retail customers.

Kohl’s

Kohl’s is a retail company that offers a variety of services for customers. They have locations across the United States and are known for their high quality merchandise. They offer clothing, shoes, accessories, and home products.

They have a wide variety of products and often run promotional deals to attract shoppers. They also have a great return policy. Customers can return their items for up to 180 days.

Kohl’s is a family-owned company that was founded in 1927 by Polish immigrant Maxwell Kohl. It began as a corner grocery store in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and later branched out into a department store. It has a large range of goods, and its private brands make up over half of its revenue. Some of these include American Beauty, Apt. 9, Croft & Barrow, and So.

Mohawk Industries

Mohawk is one of the largest flooring manufacturers in the world. Its products include ceramic tile (floors and walls), carpet, rugs, laminate and sheet vinyl under some of the most recognizable brands in each market. Its innovative, fashionable products are designed to meet customers’ needs while preserving the environment and delivering long-term value.

Mohawk’s sustainable product line includes tiles with Reveal Imaging that replicate the look of wood panels, natural stone and more; StepWise slip-resistant flooring; and insulation boards made from recycled materials. The company also offers a variety of eco-friendly solutions to reduce energy consumption in new construction and renovation projects. Its products are sold through specialty retailers, home centers, distributors and builders. The company has 43,000 employees. View the full list of employees and business contact details.

Williams-Sonoma

Williams-Sonoma is an American retail company that sells kitchenware and home furnishings. Its headquarters are located in San Francisco, California. It was founded by Charles E. Williams in 1956. Williams-Sonoma’s portfolio of brands includes Pottery Barn, Pottery Barn Kids, PBteen, West Elm, and Rejuvenation.

Each of the brand’s divisions has a unique focus. The flagship Williams-Sonoma catalog and store features professional-quality French cookware and accessories. Its stores also feature cooking classes and tastings.

After traveling in Europe, Chuck Williams decided to refashion his run-down hardware store into a destination for cookware and other housewares. He weeded out the traditional hardware supplies and began stocking the professional-quality French cookware that he had discovered overseas. The new store attracted a following of inquisitive epicures and the Williams-Sonoma empire was born.

If you are in need of HUD home improvement loans, there are a few options available to you. These loans are provided by the federal government and provide insurance that allows private lenders to offer loans to individuals with a lower credit score.

These loans can be used to finance a variety of property improvements, such as attic insulation and roof replacements. In order to qualify for this type of loan, you must meet the following requirements:

What is a HUD home?

HUD homes are foreclosed properties that the Department of Housing and Urban Development has taken over after the previous owners defaulted on their mortgage. They are then sold through bidding to the highest bidder.

The agency uses a regional “management and marketing” contractor to prepare the property for sale and market it. HUD gives first preference to owner-occupant buyers, so people who want to live in the home have a better chance of winning the bid. This helps to prevent real estate investors from driving up the price in a bidding war.

HUD also has special incentive programs for law enforcement officers, teachers, and firefighters that offer exceptionally low down payments and steep discounts. However, these homes are often sold as-is and require significant repairs, so a home inspection is recommended before making an offer. HUD also requires that buyers maintain residency for 36 months. This can be difficult for a person who is relocating for a job, like an officer moving from a city to a suburb.

What are the benefits of a HUD home?

Buying a HUD home can be a great way for first-time buyers or lower to middle income families to achieve homeownership. HUD handles all the paperwork, negotiations and transfers of ownership and ensures that buyers meet inspection and other qualifications. Buyers can also take advantage of a reduced closing cost package that includes title insurance, utility turn-on fees and winterization charges.

HUD is committed to affordable homeownership and offers special programs such as the One Dollar Program and Good Neighbor Next Door that allow owner-occupants to purchase homes for only $1 and the $100 Down Program, which waives the typical 3.5% down payment for teachers, firemen, police officers and emergency medical technicians.

Potential buyers need to enlist the services of a HUD-approved real estate agent and get all financial paperwork in order, including pre-approval for mortgage financing. Once the bid period ends, the highest qualified buyer will be notified and given a settlement date typically within 30 to 60 days.

What are the requirements for a HUD home?

The first step to buying a HUD home is to visit the HUD Homestore website and input search parameters. These include home type, city and state, buyer type, number of bedrooms and bathrooms, and more. Then, use the ‘Help’ option to find short videos and guides that explain how the site works.

Once you’ve found a home that meets your needs, order an inspection to guarantee the property is in good condition. Then, place your bid through a licensed real estate agent or broker. After the bidding period, HUD will select the highest bid and contact you to finalize mortgage financing.

The process for a HUD home can be long, so it’s important to start early. Make sure to get pre-approved for your mortgage, and keep your loan file up-to-date with current paycheck stubs, bank statements, and more. Also, be aware that the agency doesn’t cover closing costs, so you’ll need money to put down on the home.

What are the options for a HUD home?

HUD homes are sold “as is,” so buyers must be prepared to make substantial repairs or pay closing costs out of pocket. Buyers also must have financing lined up. A lender must be able to approve a mortgage and close on the property within 30 to 60 days.

Homebuyers can purchase HUD homes using conventional mortgages secured by Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac, or FHA loans for owner-occupant buyers and those with lower credit scores. Qualified veterans and current service members can use VA loans to buy HUD homes.

Anyone may bid on a HUD home, but preference is given to owner-occupants during the initial bidding period. After that, investors may submit offers. A real estate agent or broker must be approved by HUD to place bids, notify buyers of acceptance and assist in submitting sale documents.

A home improvement contractor is a professional who renovates homes. A reliable home improvement contractor is critical to the success of your remodeling project.

Before you hire a contractor, ask for references and recommendations from friends or family members. It is also helpful to get quotes from multiple contractors.

According to Westchester law, all home improvement contractors must be licensed. Getting a license is an important step for consumers and contractors alike.

Ask for Referrals

Many contractors advertise on home improvement referral sites, like Angieslist and Houzz. These sites generate a lot of traffic, but they can take awhile to convert into sales. This is why it is important to delight customers and encourage them to write reviews and recommendations.

Getting referrals is one of the most effective ways to find a quality contractor. Ask your family and friends if they have used a contractor and what their experience was like. If you are looking for a specific type of project, ask if they have done anything similar in the past.

Additionally, check out how a contractor is rated on home improvement referral sites. Some sites charge users to use the service, while others allow contractors to pay for a premium listing and appear higher in search results.

Do Your Research

The contractor you choose can make or break your project. That’s why you need to take the time to find a responsible professional.

One important question to ask is, “How often do your projects finish on time?” You may not get a percentage-type answer, but an honest contractor will be able to tell you whether or not they’ve completed work on schedule in the past.

You’ll also want to check their reviews online and in the newspaper. Depending on your location, some contractors are required to have licenses or alternative credentials. Any that don’t should be avoided. Likewise, contractors who overpromise or ask for payment upfront should also be avoided. These are red flags that indicate they’re unreliable or careless with your project. They’re likely to leave you with a substandard finished product or worse, fail to complete the project at all.

Get at Least 3 Quotes

Before hiring a contractor for your project, you should ask them to provide price estimates (quotes). An estimate is an approximate cost for the work based on the contractor’s experience and skill.

Then do a bit of research online about each contractor and company you’re considering. Compare their reviews and ratings, before and after photos, years of experience, licenses and areas of expertise.

You should always get at least three bids for any home improvement project, no matter how large or small. This allows you to compare prices and quality side-by-side, and ensures that you’re getting the best possible value for your money. Be sure to tell each contractor you’re getting quotes from other businesses so they’re able to competitively quote. This will also help you find the right contractor for your project.

Ask for Proof of Insurance

The last thing you want is to have someone work on your home and then be held liable for any damage they cause. This is why it is important to always ask to see proof of insurance. A good contractor will have no problem faxing you or emailing you a certificate of insurance (COI). When you receive it, carefully review it to make sure that all the information is correct. You can also look at the insurance types and limits section to ensure that all the coverage you requested is included.

You should also make sure that any contractors or subcontractors who will be working on your home have general liability and workers’ compensation coverage as well. If they don’t, then any damages caused by them could end up costing you a lot of money.

Get a Written Contract

When choosing a home improvement contractor, get written estimates that are itemized and detailed. This will allow you to compare the different bids. If one is substantially higher than others, ask for an explanation. In many cases, there may be a reason for the difference that isn’t immediately obvious.

Ideally, the contract will include details of the work to be performed as well as a payment schedule. It should also describe inspection provisions as well as the responsibilities of both parties for obtaining local residential construction permits and paying any associated fees. Any deposits should be placed in a designated escrow account. The contract should also state that a consumer may cancel the contract within three business days after signing. This will give you a little peace of mind should problems arise during the project.

A home remodeling company focuses on kitchen, bathroom and whole house remodels and renovation. They also offer a full range of plans, interior design and construction services for your project.

Full-service remodelers will focus on your project until it’s finished. Unlike contractors who juggle jobs, they will dedicate a team to your project.

1. Experience

Whether you want to transform your home into your dream living space or raise its value before selling, you need the right contractor to work with. This is why the experience level of a remodel company should be one of your key considerations.

Unlike general contractors, who may have shallow skillsets and rely on subcontracting expertise, remodeling companies have in-house specialists who can help you with the design, planning, budgeting, permitting, and construction processes of your project. The head of the remodeling company may even have professional designations and accreditations such as a Certified Kitchen Designer or Certified Aging in Place Specialist.

Additionally, full-service renovation companies are a master at managing multistage remodeling and renovation projects. Having experienced project managers checking in on your project on a regular basis ensures that the job stays on track and avoids costly mistakes like overlapping work periods. In contrast, a general contractor often has trouble managing juggling multiple jobs at once and may have to rework your timeline if they aren’t able to complete a task on time.

2. Reputation

A good home remodel company should have a solid reputation, both online and in the community. Look for reviews on websites like Google and Yelp. It’s important to look at both positive and negative reviews, as well as how long the home remodeling company has been in business.

The best renovation contractors also have a strong portfolio of previous projects to show their work and expertise. Ask the company if you can go on a job walk, which is a great way to see how they run their business. Whether they are using zippered plastic to seal off the work area or providing daily clean up, it’s an indicator of how professional they are.

It’s also a good idea to check with the Better Business Bureau, which provides reviews that are independent of payment. However, the BBB does take a fee to be accredited, so make sure you read the fine print of their rating.

3. Insurance

Home remodeling can add to the value of a house and make it more functional. However, it may also necessitate changing or increasing a homeowner’s insurance policy to accommodate the project. This is particularly true for projects that increase the replacement cost (or price of rebuilding a home) or cause the homeowner to be away from the property during construction.

A full-service remodel company will have a professional liability policy that is specifically tailored for home renovation work and will list the homeowner as an additional insured. In contrast, many smaller contractors will buy a general contractor’s policy that only meets minimum state law requirements and is often full of exclusions.

A remodeling company should have builder’s risk coverage that offers protection for building materials stolen or destroyed while the project is in progress. Medical payments coverage is also essential for homeowners to have if someone gets hurt during the renovation. Depending on the type of work, some remodeling projects can increase a homeowner’s insurance premium while others decrease it.

4. Customer Service

A successful home renovation business is dependent on customer satisfaction. It is the underlying force that keeps customers coming back for more and also spreads positive praise through word-of-mouth and referrals to potential new clients. The best residential remodeling companies prioritize providing world-class service, and they will always be ready to provide solutions in order to keep the project on track. This can be accomplished by using a website with contact forms where leads can submit their information and basic details about their home remodel needs. This information can be used to generate initial leads, and it is crucial for a home remodel company to follow up with these leads promptly.

Whether you’re flipping a house for profit or just want to make a few cosmetic upgrades, simple home renovations can add value without the hassle and expense of major construction. Just be sure to start small and complete projects as you go.

The most important project to tackle first is any that will protect your home from the elements and prevent future damage. These include roof repair, foundation work and addressing water infiltration.

Paint

A fresh coat of paint is one of the easiest home renovations that can transform a room. Whether you opt for a bold color or a warm neutral, a good quality paint job is an inexpensive way to give your home a facelift.

If you’re not a DIYer, you can hire painters to get the job done quickly. When creating a budget for your project, get quotes from multiple contractors to ensure you’re getting accurate pricing information.

If you have dated built-ins, you may think the best option is to rip them out and replace them with something more modern. However, if they’re sturdy and in decent shape, a simple paint job can make them look like new. Plus, they’re a lot cheaper than replacing them! Upgrading your house numbers to a more contemporary design is another great way to boost curb appeal without spending much. A brushed nickel digit or wood plaque is a stylish choice.

Wallpaper

Wallpaper is a great way to add pattern and color to walls. It’s also easy to hang and can be easily removed and replaced, which is ideal if you want to try out a new design trend. Paint, on the other hand, takes more time and requires professional help to make sure that your walls are even and free of cracks.

Traditional wallpapers are difficult to maintain, especially in rooms that get direct sunlight. They tend to fade over time, and can be hard to replace if damaged because dye lots can vary. They’re also not a good choice for humid rooms like kitchens and bathrooms.

Modern wallpapers are made of different materials, including fabric, woven, and grass cloth options. Some are even designed to withstand moisture and can be used in areas of the home that may experience dampness or condensation. They’re also easier to clean than paint because they can be wiped down with a damp cloth or sponge.

Add Shelves

Adding shelves to a nook or alcove can provide much needed storage without breaking the bank. This simple DIY project can also add a fresh look to your home that may seem outdated or drab.

A good way to keep costs down is to use a standard piece of plywood. Make sure to secure the back support into at least 2 wall studs and each side support into 1 stud. Then cut a piece of 2×2 for the front frame of each shelf. This should be a little wider than the shelf itself. Screw this into place and then attach the shelf.

Some of the simplest pseudo renovations can have the biggest impact. For example, belt straps hung on a nail can transform shelving into a rustic display space. See the full tutorial here. Or give your wall a unique, bohemian look with this wooden circle hanger, which is made out of quilting hoops. This is a great DIY for hanging planters or other thin objects.

Upgrading the Exterior

The exterior of your home tells potential buyers what to expect inside. It should be clean, welcoming and attractive. Exterior improvements make a big difference, and you don’t have to break the bank to do them.

A fresh coat of paint is a great way to refresh the look and feel of your house exterior. Pick a bold hue or a simple neutral – whatever your preference, the right color can change the whole vibe.

I’ve seen a number of drab listings where simply painting the front door in a rich color helped them stand out. You can do the same with the trim, shutters and porch railing.

Some exterior upgrades, such as a new roof or energy-efficient windows, are high on the wish list of prospective buyers and can add value to your home. But even small changes like adding seating outside can give a wow-worthy impact on your curb appeal and make your house more inviting.

Whether you’re thinking of selling your home or just want to make it more enjoyable, backyard improvements are an investment. But which projects really add value?

The best backyard upgrades are easy to install and complement your landscaping. Here are some great ideas to get you started. Adding stone pathways is a simple improvement that increases your outdoor usable space and looks beautiful.

Adding a Pool

If you have the space, adding a pool is a great way to add value and a backyard oasis for you and your guests. However, you should consider a few things before getting started.

First, you’ll need to decide where to place it. Your yard’s dimensions and terrain will determine how big a pool you can realistically fit in your backyard, along with if you’ll need fencing and/or a deck.

Creating a functional backyard can also help you sell your home faster, says Patel. That’s why he recommends investing in patio furniture, outdoor rugs, and lighting. You can even add a water fountain to enhance the look and feel of your yard. But just be sure to choose one that’s easy to maintain and safe for kids.

Adding a Fire Pit

Nothing enhances a backyard space like an outdoor fire pit. They’re perfect for gathering around for s’mores on a cool summer night or enjoying hot apple cider during the fall.

To keep the area surrounding a fire pit safe, make sure that it’s at least 10 feet away from structures or trees and clear of any low-hanging branches or other flammable material. It’s also a good idea to check your local ordinances to ensure that your fire pit meets safety requirements.

To give your outdoor space a stylish and polished look, install a fire pit paver. This paving material is easy to find in many different styles and materials that fit your desired aesthetics. For example, you can choose from concrete, brick, or stone to create a beautiful and functional backyard addition.

Adding a Deck

A deck is another backyard improvement that adds both function and value to your home. It’s important that your deck design blends seamlessly with the existing architecture of your house, but you also have a lot of flexibility in what size and location you want it to be.

A well-designed deck is an entertainment space that’s easy to move around, but it can also serve as a private space for relaxing after work or for hosting dinner parties. Adding a fire pit with either natural wood or propane is a great way to make the space feel inviting and secluded.

Basic landscaping is also an inexpensive way to spruce up your yard and boost your property’s value. Simple projects like trimming hedges, removing dead vegetation and replacing sprinkler heads are quick, easy to do and can have a big impact.

Adding Turf

Backyard improvements are a great way to add value to your home. They can increase your property’s resale value and improve your quality of life in the process.

Before installing your new turf, spray the area with weed killer to kill any existing grass and weeds. Next, use a rototiller to loosen the top layer of soil, and then level it to the desired elevation. If laying a class 2 road base, it is important to compact the material with a plate or jumping jack compactor and re-compact as needed.

Nail turf with common 60D nails about three to four inches apart around the perimeter and seams. Then, stretch the turf with a carpet kicker or knee-kicker to avoid dents or loose areas. Lastly, nail infill around the edges and in the center using landscape staples or nails.

Adding a Garden

A backyard garden does more than just add value to a home; it can be a great way to enjoy your time outside, and can also help you feel better. Studies show that spending at least two hours a week in nature can improve people’s overall well-being, so why not make the most of your outdoor space with a vegetable or flower garden?

You can choose from a variety of styles and sizes for your garden, from natural-looking ponds to more modern, precise designs. If you don’t want to do the work yourself, you can hire a professional landscape designer to create an efficient design plan that won’t break the bank. Synthetic grass is another low-maintenance option that will look beautiful year-round and eliminates the need for mowing, weeding, and expensive herbicides.

House upgrades can improve your home’s comfort and boost resale value. However, it’s important to choose the right upgrades.

A fresh coat of paint is one of the cheapest and most effective upgrades for your home. It revives older spaces, covers nicks and stains, and makes buyers feel like they’re touring a brand new home.

1. Upgrade Your Lighting

Whether your daughter’s Under the Sea light fixture was perfectly adorable when she was three or the lights are just a bit too dated for where you live now, replacing them is an easy way to update and add value.

It’s also one of the most affordable home upgrades you can do to boost resale value and make your home look fresher and more modern.

And while you’re at it, if your switch and outlet cover plates are cracked, dingy, or otherwise old-fashioned (not to mention a safety hazard), swap them out for a set that is newer and more stylish. These little fixes are one of the most important ways to make your house look more up-to-date. And they’re a great way to make your house feel more inviting.

2. Add Plants

Whether you’re blessed with a green thumb or not, plants aren’t only easy to add but also “soothe moods and create a more calming environment,” says Kidd. You can easily upgrade the look of a light fixture by swapping out standard switches for dimmer versions, or simply bring in plants and houseplants in a variety of styles to make your space feel more lively. Try a hanging planter to add depth, or a macrame stand that will work with almost any potting.

3. Upgrade Your Cabinets

It’s not uncommon for new homeowners to have a list of home upgrades they want to complete but don’t have the budget for. Thankfully, there are some projects that can make a big impact without spending hundreds of dollars.

From updating hardware to refinishing with a stain, there are lots of ways you can upgrade your cabinets to feel more custom. If you’re handy, you can also rehang your cabinets higher and add storage underneath, like Anne Turner Carroll from Southern Living did in her kitchen. Another easy way to add an instant pop of color is by painting your cabinets. You can find tons of affordable paint options at your local big box store. Just remember to prime and use a quality paint that’s water-resistant for kitchens and bathrooms.

4. Refresh Your Flooring

Whether you’ve just moved into an older home, or you’re looking for ways to upgrade your current one, knowing what upgrades will make the biggest impact is key. And while a lot of these upgrades will boost your resale value, you don’t have to break the bank to get the most out of your space. One great example is refreshing your hardwood floors. While most homeowners think they have to sand and restain their floors to give them that new sheen, it’s actually easier (and cheaper) to buff the existing finish. This can be done with a buffer machine you can rent at a local tool rental store.

5. Add Storage

When it comes to upgrading your home, there’s a lot that you can do. But, the key is to do only what you can afford and manage, and prioritize projects that will benefit your lifestyle. Also, be sure to favor projects that you can do yourself, as this will save both money and time.

Adding storage to your house is an easy way to make it more organized and streamlined. This can help you declutter and live more comfortably in your home. Plus, it’s a great way to add value to your property! These upgrades are the perfect combination of practical updates that will better protect your home and increase energy efficiency, as well as aesthetic improvements that can boost your resale value. So, why wait to upgrade your house?

Home Improvement alum Zachery Ty Bryan, who played Tim Allen’s oldest son Brad Taylor, has been in trouble with the law multiple times over the years. Now, he’s allegedly been arrested again for domestic violence.

Eugene police tell TMZ they arrested the actor on Friday for felony assault in violation of an abuse prevention order.

Commercial

Zachary Ty Bryan, who played the oldest Taylor child Brad on Home Improvement, is the subject of a criminal investigation. He is accused of stealing money through an alleged cryptocurrency scheme. Tim Allen, who starred on the show with Bryan, is rooting for his co-star and says he hopes he’s able to get back on track soon. Bryan has also guest-starred on Smallville and as a high school baseball player using steroids made from meteor rock in Code Breakers. He is also a former professional wrestler.

Honoras Home Improvement Services, which operates under the name Havoc, is located in Zachary, Louisiana. The company was founded in 2013 and operates at one single location.

Industrial

Zachary Home Improvement is located in Zachary, Louisiana and provides industrial home improvement services. The company has been in business for over 13 years and is a single location organization. Honoras Home Improvement Services also does business as Havoc and has been doing business for approximately 13 years.

Whether you’re building a new home, remodeling a house or just need some minor repairs to your property, hiring the best local contractors is essential. Home improvement projects are always complex and require the right professional contractors to ensure they’re completed on schedule and on budget.

Choosing the best local contractor is easy with Houzz. Browse through photos, read reviews and compare prices to find the best general contractor for your home improvement project. A good general contractor will take care of the day-to-day tasks, handle scheduling and permits and keep you updated on progress throughout your project. They’ll also work with other professionals to bring your vision to life.