Beams Painting

As the holidays approach, you may want to shift your focus away from electronics sales and towards home improvement deals that can save you money. From tin tiles to hammers, DIY supplies and landscaping, these bargains can help you save for future renovations.

If you’re thinking about remodeling a room or your whole house, researching multiple financing options is crucial. Find the best loan for home improvements by comparing rates, terms and qualifying requirements.

Black Friday

You might think of Black Friday as the time to score great deals on clothing, shoes and electronics, but you can also find many home improvement items on sale this holiday weekend. Wayfair, for example, offers early Black Friday deals on furniture, area rugs and lighting months in advance of the holiday shopping season. You can also take advantage of a number of buy one, get one free offers on home products from Barnes & Noble and BJs Wholesale Club.

The big home improvement stores like Lowe’s offer discounts on their usual line-up of products, from appliances and power tools to outdoor supplies and holiday decorations. Even everyday items, such as filters or cleaning products, tend to see the best prices of the year during the Black Friday event. For example, you can save on a RYOBI tool kit that includes drills, saws and other essential tools in a labeled case for just under $100.

Resale Stores

Home improvement projects can cost a fortune, but you can save big on materials and renovation items by shopping at resale stores like Habitat for Humanity ReStores. ReStores sell building materials, furniture and household goods for a fraction of retail price and generate profits to help families build strength, stability and self-reliance through affordable housing. You can also find great deals at thrift stores and by asking friends and neighbors who are remodeling if you can buy their leftover materials, such as tile or doors. Also check online classifieds, such as Craigslist or eBay. There may be an ad for the item you need right in your own community.

DIY

Homeowners can often save a lot of money by DIY-ing instead of hiring a general contractor. This is especially true for projects that are labor intensive, or that require strength over skill (e.g., adding landscaping, replacing windows or building decks). But when deciding whether a project makes sense as a DIY undertaking, homeowners should consider the time investment and their level of expertise, as well as any HOA or town rules regarding work permits.

In addition to the labor costs, some projects can add up quickly with the price of materials on the rise. In some cases, the DIY route isn’t financially feasible, even if it would save money over hiring a professional. This is especially true if the goal of a renovation is to boost your home’s value for resale. In this case, prospective buyers can usually spot amateur work and be turned off by it. A better option is to use a credit card or personal loan, both of which don’t involve putting up your house as collateral.

Landscaping

Landscaping can be a big impact on what your home is worth, particularly if it’s time to sell. Realtors often recommend that homeowners upgrade their yards to boost resale value, since homes with attractive lawns and gardens make a better impression on potential buyers. You can save money on landscaping supplies by using store credit cards, which typically have lower requirements than personal loans or home equity lines of credit, which use your house as collateral.

Jonathan Taylor Thomas was a household name back in the ’90s, landing countless magazine covers and becoming the voice of young Simba in Disney’s 1994 film The Lion King. But after he left Home Improvement in 1998, he seemed to disappear from Hollywood.

He returned to TV in 2013 as a guest star on Last Man Standing, where he’s appeared four times and directed three episodes. Now, he’s been spotted in public for the first time in years!

What’s his story?

After starring on a slew of shows and films as a kid star, Jonathan Taylor Thomas landed a gig on Home Improvement. The series, which aired from 1991 to 1999, made him a massive teen heartthrob. He landed countless magazine covers and became one of the most popular child stars in history.

He also voiced Young Simba in the 1994 film version of Disney’s The Lion King and starred in live-action movies like Speedway Junky, Wild America and Tom and Huck. He was even in a few commercials including Kellogg’s cereal and Mattel toys.

After Home Improvement ended, the star went back to school and pursued academics. He later earned a Bachelor’s degree from Columbia University. He made a few guest appearances on TV in the 2000s, including on Veronica Mars and 8 Simple Rules. He also appeared in a 2014 episode of Last Man Standing, reuniting with his former TV dad Tim Allen.

Who is he working with?

Known for his role as middle child Randy Taylor on the hit series Home Improvement, Jonathan Thomas was an immediate heartthrob. He landed countless magazine covers and became a mainstay on primetime television. He also starred in other shows, like The Bradys and In Living Color and voiced young Simba in Disney’s 1994 movie The Lion King.

After Home Improvement ended in 1999 (he left the show in 1998), he almost disappeared from Hollywood. But now, he is back in the spotlight. In 2015, he guest starred on Last Man Standing, which stars his former Home Improvement castmate Tim Allen.

And recently, he was spotted out and about in California. He was wearing jeans, a zip up hoodie and a New York Mets cap. He was walking two furry friends. It was the first time that fans had seen him since he stepped out of the limelight.

What’s he doing now?

The teen heartthrob made his name as Randy Taylor on Home Improvement, voiced Simba in the original The Lion King film and became the darling of the ’90s. His face graced the covers of teen magazines like Bop, 16, and Tiger Beat. He was the prize in kid-oriented contests and a pinnacle of child stardom.

After leaving Home Improvement, Thomas took on some TV and movie roles. He guest starred on shows like 8 Simple Rules, Ally McBeal, and Smallville and also lent his voice to the film versions of Pinocchio and The Lion King. He also studied at Harvard and Columbia University.

But he has mostly been out of the spotlight since 1998. Followers hadn’t seen JTT in public for eight years until he was recently photographed walking his dogs in Los Angeles. He was dressed in a hoodie, jeans, and sneakers. It’s unclear what he’s up to now, but he seems happy living a private life.

Where is he now?

After starring in a few episodes of the sketch comedy series In Living Color, Thomas got his big break when he was cast as middle son Randy Taylor on Home Improvement. It was a huge hit, and the actor became one of the biggest heartthrobs of the early ’90s. His face was on just about every teen magazine, including Teen Beat, Tiger Beat, 16, Bop and People.

When the show ended in 1999, he took a step back from acting, but did guest appear on a few shows such as Ally McBeal and 8 Simple Rules. He also did some voice work and dabbled in directing.

The last time we saw the former teen idol was in 2015 when he appeared on an episode of Last Man Standing with his old co-star Tim Allen. The 42-year-old has stayed out of the spotlight since then, but was recently spotted walking his dogs in Southern California. He was wearing a beige Lacoste sweater over a green shirt with jeans and glasses.

Cool home upgrades can increase resale value, but they don’t always have to break the bank. From LED strip lights that you can control with your phone to a cup holder that tucks over the armrest of a couch, these simple additions add up.

We asked design and renovation experts for their top cheap upgrades.

1. Shaker-Style Cabinets

Whether you’re looking to upgrade your bathroom, organize your living room or renovate your kitchen, it’s important to know which home products will make the biggest impact on your home’s style and functionality. Luckily, there are plenty of affordable ways to make your house feel new again without taking out a loan.

When you want to redo your cabinets, consider Shaker-style options. This minimalist design is timeless and a popular choice for homeowners. They can be painted or stained in a variety of colors and pair well with rustic shelving. If you’re on a tight budget, choose MDF or thermofoil cabinets over solid wood to save money. CabinetCorp specializes in Shaker-style cabinets for shipment as RTA (ready-to-assemble) units so you can save on installation costs.

2. Pale Blue Bathrooms

One of the simplest and least expensive upgrades to make is painting a bathroom. A fresh coat of blue wall paint instantly creates a new aesthetic for your space. It also provides a great blank canvas for adding accessories and other design elements.

A simple robin’s egg shade of blue on walls, cabinets and the base of this bathtub from designer Nicola Harding gives this bathroom a romantic feel. She paired the color with reclaimed wood floors, beveled mirrors and antique art to complete the look.

Large floor tiles in varying shades of blue turn this bathroom from Fantastic Frank into a soothing retreat. The shimmering tile resembles the rays of sun hitting ocean water and contrasts beautifully with white and wood tones in the room.

5. Artwork

Artwork is another way to make your home feel more unique. The style of your home says a lot about you, so you want it to reflect your personality and taste. For example, hanging a large minimal abstract painting above your fireplace is a great way to add a focal point and keep it within view from every room in the house. Shelves and sideboards are also great options for hanging smaller artwork, postcards, or photos from your latest holiday.

A home addition is a significant renovation project with many moving parts. Staying on top of everything from obtaining building permits to finding the right general contractor will help your project move smoothly.

TBrothers Renovation is a New York-based general contractor with an eye for detail and quality. They work with homeowners to transform homes into their dream space.

Cost

A home addition is a costly project, and it can add up quickly. You’ll need to budget for all standard building materials like wood, drywall and air ducts, as well as plumbing and electrical wiring. You’ll also need to factor in fees for an architect and contractor labor.

A general contractor with experience in building and local zoning laws can help you save on costs by ensuring your build meets compliance standards for water drainage, sewer systems, and electricity. They’ll also handle permits and hiring and managing other contractors, such as plumbers and electricians.

The size and design of the home addition can impact construction costs the most. If you’re on a tight budget, try to focus on the parts of the build that can be done DIY, such as painting, junk removal and laying some forms of flooring. You can also trim construction costs by shopping for budget-friendly materials. And don’t forget to budget for site preparation, which can include excavation and demolition.

Design

Home additions can be as simple as a bump out or as large as an extra room. They may be attached or unattached, one or two stories high, and serve many purposes from kitchens to bedrooms. However, they all have to fit within your existing home’s design and comply with local zoning regulations.

A general contractor will need to work with professional plans when building a home addition. They will also need to know the scope of the project and the costs involved. This helps them provide accurate quotes.

Some additions require a structural engineer’s input, which is usually included in the architect’s plans. The engineer will determine the dimensions of footings and the concrete slab, load-bearing walls, and columns and lintels above doors and windows.

If the project requires a foundation, the contractor will need to prepare the site. This will include clearing the area and removing any obstructions. The contractor will also need to obtain permits and post them in a visible place on the construction site.

Permits

Dealing with paperwork isn’t exactly the most exciting part of planning a home addition, but it’s important to make sure that you or your contractor files the appropriate permits before starting work on your new project. Permits help ensure that construction is done properly and to code, so that your cozy new bedroom or inspiring detached artist studio is safe and sound for years to come.

The exact rules for what requires a permit will vary from city to city, but you can usually expect to need a permit for any kind of major renovation that increases the size of your home or changes its structure. This includes removing walls (both structural and non-structural), changing the location of plumbing or electrical fixtures, adding or modifying HVAC systems, and constructing additions.

Some smaller projects, such as installing a deck or patio, do not require a permit. Other types of permits, such as full permits for building a large shed or converting a garage into living space, may take longer to process.

Construction

Building home additions is complicated work that can be dangerous for non-professionals to do on their own. Most homeowners hire an architect to design the addition and a structural engineer to ensure the new addition is safe. Some projects will also require electrical and plumbing contractors to connect the new addition to existing utilities.

Purchasing construction materials, like wood and drywall, can add up. Additionally, you’ll likely need to buy tools and equipment. Other costs include architectural fees, permits and cleanup costs.

It’s important to prioritize your desires and consider your budget before committing to any contractor or project. Don’t be afraid to ask a home addition contractor about options that align with your goals and match your budget. This will help you avoid overspending and make the most of your investment. Enter your zip code to be connected with prescreened pros near you. Start by answering a few simple questions about your project. Then, receive quotes from up to 3 contractors.

Home improvement repairs help maintain the functionality and aesthetic look of your home. These include periodic maintenance such as replacing furnace filters, resealing windows and doors, or touching up paint or weather stripping.

Aside from regular home repair, there are certain improvements that can increase your property’s value and qualify for tax deductions. These include:

Roof Repairs

A roof is the most important part of a home and it needs to be in good shape. If it isn’t, water can leak into the house and cause rot or mold. It can also damage the foundation, drywall and furniture in the house.

Repairing a roof involves a lot of materials, labor and time. The cost depends on the extent of the repair, such as whether it is a shingle overlay or replacement or a complete roof removal and installation. The pitch and design of the roof is another factor in the price.

When choosing a roofing company, it’s important to choose a licensed and insured professional. Beware of scams by companies that scour neighborhoods after a storm and try to scare people into doing business with them. Also beware of contractors that try to sell you leftover material from a previous job. These contractors should know how much material is needed for a job, so they would not have any leftovers.

Electrical Repairs

While a repair can involve a variety of items, it usually refers to general fixes meant to keep things in working condition such as replacing worn doorknobs or cleaning out plumbing traps and rain gutters. However, some repairs are so complicated and time-consuming that they require the expertise of a professional such as a plumber.

A home improvement is any remodeling, altering, renovating, repairing, restoring, moving, demolishing, or modernizing of residential or noncommercial property. It can also include the installation of insulation, air conditioning equipment, and garages. In other words, anything that adds value to the house or makes it more suitable for a specific use can be considered a home improvement. A good example is installing new wood or tile floors in a basement that you plan to use for family child care. This is an improvement that you can depreciate over 39 years. The IRS rules on what is considered a repair versus an improvement can be tricky, and you should consult with a tax professional.

Plumbing Repairs

Plumbing repairs are a necessary part of home improvement, especially when you’re renovating your bathroom or kitchen. During those projects, plumbers install new toilets and sinks as well as bathtubs and showerheads. They also work on repairing pipes and water heaters. Plumbing repairs can be as simple as replacing a faucet washer or as complex as replacing entire sections of leaking pipes.

Plumbing services are also available for installation of fixtures such as a water filter or a septic system. They can also help with installing at-home solutions for recurring problems like water leaks, such as the use of a sleeve to cover sections of leaking pipes until they’re repaired by a plumber.

The difference between home repair and home improvements is important to understand, because a repair merely maintains property and prevents further damage while an improvement can increase its value or adapt it for a different purpose. In many cases, according to the nursing assignment writing experts at BestWritingHelp, improvements can be tax deductible.

Insulation Repairs

Home insulation repairs are generally part of home improvement, since a property’s insulation plays an important role in its energy efficiency and comfort. Problems with the integrity of the insulation are usually caused by moisture damage, physical damage, vermin infestation or a lack of ventilation. Effective repairs may involve removing and replacing damaged insulation materials, sealing leaks, improving ventilation, addressing pest problems, and implementing moisture control measures.

Penetration of the insulation system during a repair process should be avoided whenever possible, especially if it is still in service. Doing so could void insulation system and material warranties, either written or implied.

It is important to distinguish between home improvement and repairs for tax purposes, since the former can be deducted from a homeowner’s income. The latter, on the other hand, may not be. The difference is that home improvements are designed to enhance the value of a property while repairs are intended to return the property to its original condition.

Upgrading your home doesn’t have to require a sizable budget and a team of contractors. Even small changes like painting and re-grouting tile can add value when done well.

Many buyers are drawn to storage space, so installing a mudroom with a bench and hooks is a good choice. You can also add a pop of color to a room by replacing standard light switches with dimmer options that create ambiance.

Window Treatments

Window treatments (also known as window coverings) are anything that hangs on a window, from a shade for privacy and light control to a valance or pair of drapes to create a stunning focal point for any room. Design and decorating experts typically divide window treatments into two types: hard and soft. Hard treatments are made from durable materials like wood or vinyl and include blinds, shades and shutters. Soft window treatments are made of fabric or sheers and include curtains, drapes and valances. A valance can be adorned with extra elements such as swags, tails and cascades to add more drama to the valance or accentuate a particular shape of the window. It’s not uncommon for a window to boast both a hard and soft treatment, which is called a layered window treatment. A Gotcha Covered design expert will help you choose the best window treatments to meet your functional needs and style preferences.

Window Replacement

Windows are another way homeowners can improve their home’s energy efficiency and the appearance of the exterior. They can also add value to a home by offering more panoramic views of the outdoors or bringing in more natural light into a room.

Homeowners can choose from insert or full frame replacement windows. With insert windows, new windows are installed within the existing window opening and only the old sash, operating hardware and covers are removed. This allows the installer to inspect and repair areas where rot or water damage has occurred.

If the existing window frame is in poor condition, full frame replacement is recommended. This option allows the installation crew to inspect and address any issues such as rotting or a lack of insulation around the existing frame. It is important that the cladding and trim around the new window are properly prepared and sealed in order to prevent water penetration into the home.

Front Door Accessories

The front door is the first impression visitors and guests have of your home. Though replacing your entryway door for stylistic reasons might be more of a large-scale home improvement project, front door accessories provide a quick way to refresh your home’s look and increase curb appeal.

Front door hardware like locksets, handles and knobs can define a style, improve security and add functionality to the entrance of your home. Whether you’re looking for something that’s safer or a touch more stylized, Plastpro’s door accessories have a design to fit every front door style.

A front door that’s welcoming to visitors and neighbors is a great way to increase the overall value of your home. Try a new color or add a unique touch with a front door welcome mat and potted plants around the front entrance. For more ideas and to see a wide selection of door designs, visit Plastpro online. Use our Find a Dealer tool to locate a Plastpro distributor near you!

Home improvement projects are a great way to add value to your house. But before you hire a contractor, get several quotes and a written estimate. Make sure that the contract clearly describes the work to be performed and the price. Some states require that contractors provide this information to consumers.

Benco Construction

Benco Construction is a home improvement business near me that provides a wide range of services. The company specializes in alternations and restorations, custom homes, renovations, and extensions. It also offers masonry, roofing, and tile work. Its team has years of experience in the industry. Its mission is to transform visions into reality. It also aims to create relationships that last.

The company is licensed by the state of New York. Its license number is 25312, and it was issued by the Department of Consumer Affairs. Its license expires in 2020. Its contractors must also carry workers’ compensation insurance. You can check a contractor’s license by visiting the Department of Consumer Affairs website. You can also review their job history and payment histories to know more about them.

Benco has worked on 70 jobs in the past 12 months according to available project information. You can explore their full job history and see testimonials from other contractors.

DJ’s Home Improvements

DJ’s Home Improvements has been in business since 1990 and has a combined 40+ years of experience as a certified design-build remodeling company. They specialize in whole-home additions, kitchen and bathroom remodels, and more. They also offer digital design renders to help clients visualize their project. They are licensed, insured and accredited by BBB. They are also members of several professional organizations.

Home improvement projects can improve the quality of your life in your home, make it easier to sell, or save money on energy bills. It’s important to do your homework before hiring a contractor for your project. Always check license and insurance, and hire only reputable companies. Be wary of a contractor who attempts to scare you into hiring them by claiming your property is unsafe or changes the price of the work that was agreed upon.

DJ’s Remodeling

DJ’s Remodeling has been in business for 30 years and offers whole-house remodeling, additions, kitchen, and bathroom renovation. It also provides digital design renderings of what the finished product will look like to help clients visualize their projects. The company also performs handyman services and repairs.

Home improvement is the process of making structural changes to your home or adding improvements to your property. These improvements can be cosmetic or functional. They can improve the overall comfort of your home and increase its value. You can find many different home improvement contractors to work on your project. Be sure to do your homework and find a reliable contractor who will do the job at an honest price.

Home improvement projects can be expensive, but they can increase your home’s value and make it a better place to live. They can also save you money on energy bills or make your home safer. Make sure you hire a licensed contractor and always check their references.

DJ’s Painting

When it comes to home improvement, you can do a variety of projects to improve your property. Some projects save you money in the long run while others increase the value of your home. Some projects also make the experience of living in your house better.

Some projects can be done with a general contractor, while others require a specialist. For example, you can hire a landscaper to install a garden that will draw attention from potential buyers. You can also work with a painter to improve the look of your home.

Before hiring a painting contractor, you should ask for references and check their insurance coverage. If a contractor doesn’t carry insurance, it is your responsibility to file a claim with the Department of Consumer Affairs (DCA). DCA maintains high standards for licensing contractors and offers a trust fund to reimburse homeowners who were scammed by unlicensed contractors. It is also important to check the contractor’s business address and verify that they are a licensed company.

Whether it’s to cut energy costs or simply make your home look better, keeping up with regular maintenance tasks can save money and prevent damage. A home improvement handyman is a true jack of all trades, applying accrued skills to any project that doesn’t pose serious hazards or require a license to perform.

The Family Handyman

Family Handyman is a home improvement magazine that provides DIYers with tips, advice and instructions for various projects. The magazine covers everything from woodworking to kitchen and bathroom remodeling, and also offers tips on outdoor and lawn care.

Readers can use the magazine’s plans to tackle a variety of projects, including adding extra electrical outlets, installing solid wood paneling and refinishing cabinets. The magazine also includes comprehensive tool guides and reviews to help readers choose the right tools for their jobs.

The Family Handyman is the perfect home improvement magazine for DIYers who want to save money by doing their own work. Readers can turn their house into the home of their dreams with the help of the magazine’s easy-to-follow instructions and expert advice. With a subscription to The Family Handyman, readers can guarantee success with step-by-step instructions and photos, and save time and money with handy hints, workshop tips and new product reviews. The Family Handyman is available in print, tablet editions and a free DIY Tip Genius app.

Hunker

Hunker is a first-timer friendly, no expert necessary editorial platform dedicated to home improvement and interior design. Their content is a mix of DIY guides, tips, and tutorials as well as full length features and tours of gorgeous spaces. Their social media shares a wide range of #designgoals and home inspiration to their 169,900 followers.

Hunker means crouch down or squat, and it is used figuratively to mean to get serious about something or take the task seriously. It is thought to be a Scottish appropriation of a Scandinavian word, perhaps Old Norse huka, which also meant to crouch. Hunker has several unique shops, restaurants, and festivals that make it a fun place to visit!

Getting same-day delivery quotes in Hunker, PA is fast and easy with Drivv. Post your delivery request and receive competitive delivery quotes from local companies. It takes just minutes to compare quotes and select the best option for your needs.

The Spruce

If you’re planning to do a kitchen remodel, you need to hire specialized professionals. This includes electricians, cabinetmakers, countertop contractors, plumbers and flooring experts. They can help you create a functional, beautiful space and ensure that the project is completed on time and within budget.

The Spruce is a home improvement blog that offers trustworthy product reviews and DIY tips. Its team of writers has a wealth of knowledge in different areas, from gardening to interior design. In addition to writing articles, The Spruce also provides helpful videos and podcasts.

The website also features a section called “Fact Check.” The fact-checking team is composed of journalists and subject matter experts who verify all statements and statistics in each article. They also review and edit content to maintain the integrity of information. The site’s goal is to make sure that every article is accurate and comprehensive. In addition, it is free from bias and partisanship. The company was founded in 1951 and is based in New York City.

Homeowner’s Manual

The homeowners manual is a great resource for anyone who wants to learn how to improve their home. It will teach you how to perform simple tasks like adjusting the toilet float, as well as more complicated projects like drywalling and installing vinyl tile. It also provides information on cutting energy costs and making your home more environmentally friendly.

Many homeowner manuals are found in binder form, but they can also be kept in a digital format. This is helpful because it allows for easy sharing of important information with household staff members. It also prevents important data from being lost or misplaced.

When house manuals live in a digital platform, they can be integrated with smart project management tools that turn them into actionable tasks. Then, it’s just a matter of assigning tasks to household staff and tracking progress in real time. This helps streamline the home improvement process and ensures a higher level of service for your property.

Whether you’re looking to boost your home’s value for future buyers or increase its comfort for your current family, these projects will help.

Overhauling surfaces underfoot and overhead was the most popular home improvement project in 2017. New carpet, flooring and ceiling tiles recoup 78% of their cost.

Replacing exterior siding is another big investment, but it ranks as the top outdoor project for adding value. Manufactured stone veneer also recoups nearly 96% of its cost.

1. Kitchen Remodel

Home improvement includes any work done to the interior or exterior of a dwelling. This can include remodeling, painting, repairing, renovating, restoring, modernizing, moving, demolishing, or adding to residential buildings.

According to the 2022 Remodeling Impact Report, kitchens and bathrooms are the most frequently remodeled rooms. However, a full-scale remodel isn’t necessary for every home.

If your current kitchen is functional for you but just not aesthetically pleasing, consider a smaller facelift. This might include paint, re-facing cabinets, replacing appliances or even a small kitchen island.

A new coat of paint is one of the simplest and most cost-effective projects you can do to update your space. Opt for light colors like gray, beige or white to open up your rooms and make them feel airy and bright. Or, make a statement with a feature wall by painting it in a bold color like navy blue or deep purple.

2. Bathroom Remodel

A bathroom remodel may be as simple as a fresh coat of paint or as complicated as moving plumbing fixtures. If you’re a homeowner, you can save money by tackling some of the project yourself.

If you’re hiring contractors, be sure to get a clear description of the work, the estimated start and completion dates, and a complete price break down. Also, find out if they have insurance and a warranty on their work.

Remember to factor in a 20% cushion for unanticipated expenses. Poor planning is the number one cause of bathroom remodeling cost overruns. Use a free printable bathroom remodel checklist to help you stay on budget and make the best decisions. Keep in mind that some improvements may require a permit. This is especially true of structural changes, such as removing and replacing walls. Also, be sure to check the status of your home’s lead paint before making any renovations. This is especially important for pregnant women and children.

3. Master Suite Remodel

A master suite remodel is a major project that adds value to your home. It’s also a great opportunity to make the room look and function how you want it.

Start with a list of “must-have” and “would-love-to-have” features, focusing on those that are most important to you. Then work with a design-build contractor to create a budget that can accommodate those upgrades while staying within the limits of your home’s existing structure.

Consider relocating the master suite to a more private area of your home or to one of the exterior walls to increase privacy and allow for easy access to the yard and patio. Or, you might opt to open the space up to a view with large windows. These homeowners in Northern New Jersey were able to add a new walk-in shower and two new closets to their luxury master suite after our designers reconfigured the space to make it more functional.

4. Finished Basement

Having a finished basement can add extra square footage to your home and increase its value. While many homeowners think that basements are a “wet” area that requires more maintenance, it is possible to finish the space for a reasonable cost. It’s important to remember that appraisers will consider the below-grade finish as part of the overall value of a house.

The basement renovation should be done by a professional to ensure it is up to code, including egress windows and fire safety precautions. It may be possible to save money by selecting lower-grade materials, but Steckel suggests not skimping on electrical work and plumbing. When it comes to furnishings, try sourcing second-hand items from websites like OfferUp and Facebook Marketplace. You can also find great deals on used fixtures and decor at Habitat for Humanity ReStores in the US. In addition, homeowners that make energy-efficient improvements may be eligible for federal and local tax credits.

Home additions are a common way to add living space and value to your property. They can range from simple attic and basement expansions to a new garage conversion or second story home addition.

To ensure your project goes well, choose a contractor who will listen to you and communicate clearly. It is also helpful to keep a project journal, handwritten or typed, so you can record your ideas and conversations with the contractor.

Reputation

One of the first things you should consider when choosing a contractor for your home addition is their reputation. A reputable company will have excellent communication, a transparent pricing structure and a positive work ethic. They will also be able to provide you with references from past clients.

In general, contractors prefer to build on their good reputation and are not willing to risk ruining it by taking shortcuts or cutting corners in a job. Mock suggests asking friends and family for recommendations, searching online reviews and reading customer feedback on websites like Angi, Homeadvisor and Yelp.

Answer a few questions about your project, and get matched with top-rated local pros. Compare quotes, photos and reviews. Choose the best pro for your home. It’s that simple!

Experience

A room addition is a significant investment, and you want to hire a contractor with experience. It’s important to ask for references from previous clients. You’ll find out about the company’s commitment to the project and its ability to stick to deadlines. A reputable contractor will also be familiar with local building codes and permits.

A professional home remodeling and addition contractor will provide you with a detailed estimate for your project. It’s important to compare estimates from multiple contractors to find the best price for the work you want done.

When you’re ready to start your home improvement project, use Contractor Connection to connect with top-rated local pros near you. Simply answer a few questions about your project, and we’ll match you with up to three contractors that are qualified for the job. You can then read reviews and compare quotes to find the right contractor for your home addition. It’s fast, easy and free!

License

Whether you’re looking for a home addition contractor or simply need to remodel your house, you’ll want to hire someone with a valid license. Licensing requirements vary by state, but many states require contractors to pass an exam and undergo a background check to obtain their license.

Some states also have reciprocity agreements, which allow contractors who have a license in another state to work in their jurisdiction without having to take an additional exam. However, it’s best to check with the licensing department of your specific city or town for the latest information.

In Oregon, for instance, the state requires contractors to pass a comprehensive exam and meet other requirements before they can be licensed. For example, contractors must know the proper header thickness for a project, how to wire an electrical panel, and how to properly install gas-fired water heaters. These details ensure that the contractor will do the job safely and accurately.

Insurance

A home addition is a great way to increase living space. It can also add value to the property. However, you need to consult with a professional before you start a home addition project. They can assess the feasibility of a renovation and discuss remodeling insurance options. They can also advise you on the possible premium increases for a home remodel.

Home additions can be used as bedrooms, living rooms, ateliers, and more. They are perfect for families who need extra space or for people who have an empty nest. They can also be used to make a house more energy efficient.

In many cases, the cost of a home addition can be recovered when you sell your house. A home addition can also be a good investment, especially in an area with high real estate prices. If you’re considering a home addition, you should first think about what type of room you want. You should also consider the costs and timeframes for the project.