Beams Painting

Whether you are remodeling to increase the value of your home or simply making it more comfortable, smart home improvement projects can save money and provide a sense of accomplishment. However, it is important to know that DIY projects can go very wrong.

Having a good contractor is key to staying on budget. Ensure that you can communicate clearly with contractors and understand exactly what you want before hiring them.

Budget

Home improvement is an important part of homeownership. It not only gives your house a fresh look, but it can also add value and help you sell in the future. However, it can be expensive, especially if you have large projects on the horizon.

When planning a home renovation, it is critical to make sure that the project budget fits within your financial limitations. This includes determining whether you will pay cash, use credit, or borrow to finance the project. It is also important to include a contingency plan for the unexpected expenses that are sure to arise.

Taking the return on investment into account will also help you decide how much to spend on the project. High-ROI projects such as kitchen upgrades and bathroom refreshes will give you the most bang for your buck in terms of resale value. Additionally, homeowners should consider tax breaks that may be available for home improvements. These include deductions for materials and possibly even the interest on a loan.

Design

The next step in a home improvement project is to start planning the design. This involves figuring out what projects will work for your lifestyle and what will add value to your home.

Having a plan will also help you set a realistic budget. You should always include a contingency fund in your renovation costs for unexpected issues that might come up during the process.

For example, if you’re remodeling your bathroom, a contractor might discover hidden plumbing problems and incur additional expenses. A contingency fund will allow you to cover these expenses without overspending.

Then, you’ll need to figure out what materials you’ll need and how much they’ll cost. This will require some research online and speaking to local contractors. The prices of materials can fluctuate depending on demand and supply-chain issues. For example, drywall prices are up due to the pandemic and may continue to rise. You can also save money on materials by doing some DIY projects.

Materials

Home improvement projects often require a lot of different materials. Before starting a project, it’s important to research the options that are available and the prices for those materials. It’s also helpful to get quotes from contractors to make sure you have a firm understanding of the costs involved.

Some home improvements may require specialized building materials that aren’t available locally. Others may be difficult to source because they aren’t in high demand, or they may cost more. Some building materials are also not suitable for a particular climate, so it’s a good idea to talk to local home-building experts to find out what options are available.

One of the best ways to save money on your next home-improvement project is by reusing and repurposing items you already have at home. For example, you can use repurposed spice containers or mason jars to store pesky supplies like screws and nails. Another way to save money is by making a budget and shopping smarter.

Contractors

Home improvement projects can be expensive. Getting estimates from contractors is a good idea, but the best way to keep the project within budget is by planning ahead.

Financial planner Bob Harkson says he sees many clients overspend on renovation projects because they don’t plan enough. He suggests logging costs and the estimated cost of each element in an online tool like Homezada to help keep track of expenses.

It is also important to have a general contractor that can address everything you need for the renovation. This can save you time and money because they may already have contacts and experience dealing with similar jobs.

When selecting a contractor, look for references, insurance coverage and certifications. Also, ask for lien waivers from material suppliers and subcontractors affirming that they’ve been paid. This will protect you in the event that the contractor does not finish the job. It also helps prevent disputes over payments after the job is completed.

Home improvement and repair is an important part of keeping your property in good shape. It is also a great way to make your house more comfortable and attractive.

It is recommended that you set aside 1% to 2% of your home’s value each year for maintenance and repairs.

Boosts Your Home’s Value

Home improvement projects often offer a high return on investment when it comes time to sell your home. These projects can also increase the enjoyment, functionality and overall experience of living in your home. However, not all home improvements are created equal. Some have a negative impact on your resale value or are less desirable to potential buyers.

Home repair and home improvement are two distinct concepts. Home repair includes a wide range of tasks that maintain the performance, appeal and value of your property. This could include repairing a leaky faucet, painting the exterior of your house, or replacing worn flooring. Home improvement, on the other hand, involves changes that improve your home’s design, function and aesthetic look. This could include remodeling your kitchen, bathroom or adding a new deck.

When undertaking home improvement projects, always hire reputable contractors. Shop around and get quotes from multiple companies before making a decision. Also, make sure to establish a contract for the work with clear payment schedules, work deadlines and specific project details.

Increases Your Home’s Comfort

Home improvement is the process of improving or repairing the interior and exterior of your house. It also includes the construction, erection, replacement, or improvement of driveways, walkways, patios, walls not necessary for the structural stability of the building, fences, porches, garages, and fallout shelters.

Some home improvements are luxury additions that may add value but may not appeal to all buyers, for example, a backyard pool. However, other upgrades like installing energy-efficient appliances will increase your home’s comfort and save you money in the long run.

It is important to understand the difference between home maintenance and home improvement. Home repair involves fixing or restoring something that is broken or damaged in your home, such as repairing a leaky roof or replacing an outdated window. Home improvement, on the other hand, is more extensive and involves changes that improve a home’s interior and exterior appearance, design, or function. HomeZada makes it easy to schedule and plan your home improvements with their free online home management tool.

Saves You Money

Home repairs and improvements cost money, but they can save you money in the long run. Many of these projects, like replacing worn-out items, can reduce energy costs. Others can protect your property from damage by hurricanes, floods and other natural disasters.

Some financial experts suggest that you should set aside 1-2% of your home’s value each year for maintenance needs. That may sound like a lot, but it’s better than going into debt to pay for unexpected repairs down the road.

Some projects can save you money by avoiding the need to hire a professional, such as resurfacing or repainting a kitchen or bathroom. However, make sure you choose DIY projects that are within your skill set. Otherwise, you could end up paying someone else to fix your mistakes or injuring yourself and incurring medical bills. And always get a written contract before the contractor starts work. It should include a payment schedule, as well as the specifics of all the work that will be done.

Increases Your Home’s Appearance

A home’s appearance is important for attracting potential buyers. Simple things such as replacing worn exterior doors, adding a new mulched flowerbed or repainting the house are relatively inexpensive ways to make your home look more attractive. Some homeowners may also want to consider hiring an experienced landscaping professional to design and install a backyard paradise.

While many people use the terms home repair and home improvement interchangeably, there is a difference between the two. Home repairs are the activities that maintain a property’s performance, appearance and functionality while home improvement consists of changes designed to enhance a home’s design, functionality, aesthetic appearance and feel.

It is always wise to hire an experienced contractor for any type of work on your home, regardless if it is a home repair or a complete home renovation. Before starting any work or making any payments, be sure you have a written contract that includes a detailed description of the work to be performed, a payment schedule and prices for all materials.

Courtney Peldon is an American actress best known for her three season role as Jonathan Taylor Thomas’ on-screen girlfriend Lauren on Home Improvement. She has also guest starred on 3rd Rock from the Sun, Boston Public, and Entourage. She graduated from Skidmore College with a major in Abnormal Psychology and a minor in Film.

How to Fix a Broken Window

It takes little more than an errant baseball or pebble from a lawnmower to break the glass in your window. It’s a common problem, but it’s also one that can be easily fixed by a homeowner with some basic tools.

The first step is to remove the broken glass pane. Before you do this, make sure to put on thick cut-proof gloves and safety glasses. Then, use a utility knife to remove the old putty and glazing. Once this is done, use a scraper or wood chisel to remove any remaining glazier’s points or nails.

Next, measure the height and width of the frame and purchase a piece of new glass at a home improvement store. Be sure to order the glass to be slightly smaller than the opening of the frame to make it easier to install. Also, consider getting a clear super glue such as Loctite Glass Glue or Gorilla Glue to repair the crack. This is a stronger repair and is more resistant to moisture and sunlight.

How to Install a Ceiling Fan

If you’re replacing an existing ceiling fan or installing one for the first time, start by shutting off power at your home’s electrical panel to the room where you’ll be working. Consult your fan’s instruction manual for specific guidelines on how to wire it correctly.

Once you’ve cleared a work space and have the necessary tools, disconnect any light bulbs or a light kit from an existing ceiling fan, then unscrew the base of the fan motor. Carefully remove it from the ceiling without dropping it. There should be several wires underneath, so it’s important to have an extra set of hands or even a ladder.

Once you’ve removed the existing wires from the junction box, attach a cable clamp to the bottom of your fan’s mounting bracket. Then, thread the white neutral wire from your home’s wiring to the corresponding wire in the fan motor and connect it with a screw. Match the black hot wire from your home to the corresponding wire on the fan and tighten it with a screw.

How to Install a Shelving Unit

Actress Courtney Peldon has appeared in several TV shows, including Home Improvement and Boston Public, and in movies such as Angel Heart, Out on a Limb and Skin. She is best known for her three-season role as Jonathan Taylor Thomas’ on-screen girlfriend on Home Improvement, and her recurring roles in Boston Public, That ’70s Show and Entourage.

To install a shelving unit, first use a stud finder to locate wall studs, the vertical framing members to which drywall is attached. Shelving standards are anchored with screws driven into studs. The best place to screw a shelf standard is into the center of a stud, rather than at either end.

When you have found the location of a stud, mark its position on the wall with a pencil and a carpenter’s level to establish a guideline for mounting the shelves. Also mark the position of keyhole slots on the hanger brackets. These holes will be used to install anchors and support screws.

How to Install a Garage Door

Getting your garage door installed correctly is essential to having a functional and safe system. Before you begin, make sure that all components are functioning properly by visually inspecting springs, cables, pulleys and hinges for any signs of wear or damage. Also, adjust force settings and limit switches as necessary.

Start by placing the first garage door section on the work surface exterior-side down. Locate the metal brackets near the bottom (near the weather stripping) on both sides of the bottom edge and attach them with the provided screws. Place the next door panel on top, connecting it to the previous panel using hinges. Repeat the process with remaining panels, ensuring that each panel has a groove that sits on the ridge of the previous panel.

Courtney Peldon is an American actress who has appeared on TV shows such as Home Improvement and Boston Public, and in movies like Out on a Limb, Angel Heart and Skin. She has also starred in the 2014 film Dawn of the Planet of the Apes alongside Andy Serkis.

Home improvement refers to the renovation, alteration, remodeling, repair or replacement of the interior or exterior of a residential or noncommercial property. It can also be the addition of new structures to a residential or commercial property.

Before hiring a company, ask your neighbors about the companies they have used and check with local lumberyards to see which contractors purchase top-quality materials. You should also be sure that the contractor is licensed.

1. Experience

A quality home improvement company will have experience working on projects of a similar size and scope to the one you are undertaking. For example, if you need to have a new kitchen built, an experienced contractor will know how long it should take, what materials to use and where to get them at the best price.

General contractors are responsible for overseeing construction projects and facilitating all day-to-day tasks that move the project toward completion. They can handle certain jobs onsite, such as carpentry, but they will also hire subcontractors for specialized work like electrical work or painting.

Curbio transforms the way homeowners interact with contractors by enabling them to have clear communication and real-time progress reports all in one place. Learn more about how we pair 3 million homeowners with professionals every year.

2. Reputation

Homeowners do a lot of research before they choose a contractor to work on their home. They want to make sure they’re making the right decision, so they look for online reviews and visit company websites. They also use search engines like Google to find local contractors. This means it’s important for businesses to be visible on these platforms.

Companies like Angi (formerly Angie’s List) offer online profiles and lead generation for home improvement companies. These sites pair more than 3 million homeowners with contractors annually. It’s free to create a profile on Angi, but you will have to pay to promote yourself beyond your basic listing.

3. Insurance

Home improvement contractors must have insurance policies in place to protect their business. The main type of policy that is required is general liability, which covers third-party damages and accidents that may occur on a project. For example, if an employee accidentally breaks a client’s window while caulking a bathtub, this insurance will cover the cost of replacing the damaged glass.

It’s important to ask each contractor about their insurance policy. Without a detailed checklist, each contractor may estimate the project based on their understanding of your verbal explanations, leading to estimates that vary greatly. Ideally, you want to get estimates from multiple contractors who are not affiliated with an insurance company.

4. Licenses

A license is essential for contractors who are looking to work on home improvement projects. Performing these types of services without one can result in fines and other administrative sanctions. It can also lead to a loss in property value.

Home improvement contractors must be licensed to perform construction, repair, or remodeling on residential land or buildings in New York City. This includes constructing, replacing or improving basements, driveways, fences, garages, lawns, landscaping, patios, porches, sidewalks, swimming pools, and terraces.

Before applying for a home improvement contractor license, you must pass the Home Improvement Contractor Examination. To do this, you must answer at least 21 questions correctly. Additionally, you must get your fingerprints electronically documented. This can be done by registering with IdentoGO and paying the fee.

5. Customer Reviews

Many homeowners are hesitant to hire contractors without researching them first. Home improvement projects can be large investments and homeowners want to be sure they choose the right contractor for their needs. One way to find out is by checking customer reviews. Homeowners may use a website such as Angi (formerly Angie’s List) to connect with contractors who have been reviewed by others. These reviews are vetted by Angi to ensure they are authentic and represent actual customers.

HGTV shows make it seem like home renovations are a quick way to add value to a property, but the reality is that most renovations do not provide a 100% return on investment. The best way to get the most bang for your buck is to work with companies that offer cash discounts or the ability to arrange financing yourself.

Home improvement programs help income-eligible homeowners to repair their homes so they are safe and livable. Improvements include repairs to foundations, repointing brick stoops and chimneys; new windows; vinyl siding; and energy related improvements like attic and basement insulation, new boilers and water heaters.

This organization works throughout the state and believes that aiding homeowners leads to healthier neighborhoods. It focuses on low-income families, seniors, and disabled people.

Habitat for Humanity

Habitat for Humanity builds and rehabilitates safe, decent, affordable homes with the help of volunteers. These homes empower families and build stronger communities. Families who receive these homes experience a variety of benefits, including improved health, greater success at school and work, and financial security.

The Habitat for Humanity Grand Traverse Region Priority Home Repair program serves homeowners with household incomes below a certain percentage of the area median income (AMI) who need a critical home repair. These repairs can be performed by Habitat GTR staff or qualified subcontractors coordinated by the organization. The homeowner must pay back a portion of the cost of the repair to Habitat, which is calculated as the repair amount multiplied by the household’s percentage of AMI.

The Habitat for Humanity is an international nonprofit Christian housing organization that partners with families to provide them with a safe and stable place to live. The organization aims to change the world by providing affordable houses for low-income families. It also promotes volunteerism.

New York state

New York state offers a variety of programs to help homeowners in need. These programs can provide low-cost financing for repairing and improving homes, as well as removing health and safety hazards. These programs are run by government agencies and are intended to improve the quality of life for people in New York.

These programs are designed to help low-and moderate-income families. The assistance is provided through grants and loans. In order to qualify, a household must meet certain income requirements. These include a maximum of 80-100% of the HUD median income guidelines.

Applicants can receive assistance for home repairs and improvements, including the purchase of energy-efficient appliances. The assistance also includes the repair and replacement of windows, doors, roofs, and major systems. It can also cover accessibility accommodations such as ramps and lifts. In addition, assistance can be provided for weatherization and insulation. The assistance is offered by state and local governments, community agencies, and charities.

USDA

The USDA offers a variety of home improvement loans and grants for low-income residents. Its home loan programs include guaranteed and direct mortgages as well as a program for rural rental housing. It also runs a home repair grant program that helps very-low-income individuals make necessary repairs to their homes.

Guaranteed USDA loans are backed by the agency, much like conventional mortgages are backed by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. This allows lenders to extend 100% financing to qualified buyers. To qualify for a guaranteed loan, you must live in an eligible area. To find out if you’re eligible, use the USDA Eligibility Site to enter a specific address for determination or search a map to review general eligible areas.

The agency also offers direct loans, which are not backed by the USDA and are funded directly by the lender. To apply for a direct loan, you must choose a lender that is approved by the USDA.

Keuka Housing Council

The Keuka Housing Council is a non-profit organization that offers home improvement assistance for individuals and families with modest income. The organization also operates supportive housing units that provide services such as emergency support and financial counseling. Its mission is to improve and maintain the quality and quantity of affordable housing options for individuals and families of modest means in its communities. It is a HUD approved counseling agency that offers homeownership education and training, foreclosure prevention, financial literacy, rental subsidy programs and asset development. Its employees can be found on Zippia, which is an online business directory. The company was founded in 1976 and is based in Dundee, New York.

Cortni teaches RVers easy, cheap and quick ways to remodel and renovate their vehicles. She also offers one-on-one RV renovation coaching.

Another poster has questioned whether or not the ’55 Nomad that got smashed in the show was actually a two door Handyman or some other 4 door model. It could be, but the angled b pillar is clearly visible in multiple episodes.

RV Renovations

RV renovations can add comfort and style to your home on wheels. Some DIY RV remodel projects are simple enough to do yourself, while others require a bit more time and expertise.

This RV renovation shows how a new floor and bright paint can make a room look brand-new. This toy hauler got a new living area with bunk beds and a custom dog kennel. The kitchen in this RV is much more modern thanks to a fresh coat of paint and a new countertop.

Kelsey from This Little Adventure says her construction experience helped prepare her for RV renovations. She also learned from her grandfather, who was a woodworker. She uses her experiences and knowledge to help educate people on how to DIY RV renovations.

She suggests that RV owners check for water damage before doing a major renovation. Any structural issues should be taken care of by a professional.

She also suggests that RV owners do a lot of research before hiring an RV remodeling company. She recommends reading reviews and testimonials, requesting work references, and checking for insurance, warranties and professional certifications. If you’re planning a DIY RV remodel, she advises that you choose a durable paint with low VOCs. She also likes products that are easy to clean, and she prefers using acrylic latex over enamel.

RV Lifestyle

Many people choose to live in RVs on a full-time basis because they love the idea of travel as part of their daily routine. They also enjoy the freedom of not having to worry about maintenance or mortgage payments on a stick-and-brick home. If this lifestyle appeals to you, it’s important to be prepared for challenges that may arise.

One common challenge is keeping up with the cost of living. It can be expensive to maintain an RV, and some recurring expenses like gas, campsite fees, and other utilities may surprise you. To avoid going broke, it’s important to plan ahead and set a budget for yourself.

Another challenge is finding a way to make this lifestyle work with your employment situation. Many RVers have found that they can work remotely, which makes it possible to maintain a full-time job while on the road. Other people choose to do seasonal jobs or live off savings while they transition into this lifestyle.

If you want to live the RV lifestyle, you need to be able to narrow down your possessions and keep only what is truly useful. It’s helpful to invest in multi-purpose items and tools to help you get the most out of your space. It’s also important to be able to adjust your schedule to fit weather fluctuations and seasonal differences.

RV Remodeling

When it comes to RV remodeling, the list of projects can feel endless. But it’s not always necessary to tackle everything at once—small changes, like painting and curtains, can make a huge difference.

A fresh coat of paint, a new rug and some curtains can make any RV feel more like home. Adding furniture that perfectly matches your new design style can complete the look and help make it more cohesive.

Swapping out (or adding, in case you don’t have any to begin with) drawer pulls and cabinet handles is a simple project that adds a big impact. You can find a ton of hardware options at your local home improvement store and even at Hobby Lobby for fun and whimsical styles.

If the flooring in your RV is outdated, replacing it is a more extensive project but one that can make a big difference. It’s also a good idea to remove baseboard trim, in-floor heat registers and any flooring that’s stuck down with glue or tacks before installing new flooring.

Then you can install click-lock plank style flooring that’s easy to clean, affordable and waterproof. It’s especially useful in areas like the bathroom where moisture is a concern. It’s best to use a product like MusselBound instead of mortar or All-Set because it’s faster, less messy and doesn’t require waiting for the adhesive to dry.

Remodeling a house can be expensive, but you can save money by choosing a company that specializes in home renovation. Some of these companies also offer financing.

Rusk Renovations is a New York-based construction firm that performs luxury and full-gut renovations of Manhattan apartments. The company collaborates with interior designers and architects to achieve museum-quality interiors.

Rusk Renovations

In New York City, the Rusk Renovations home renovation company has been operating for 30 years. They are expert in combining style and functionality when renovating kitchens, baths, and home interiors. They also provide digital design renders of the finished product to help their clients visualize their plans.

They have built their reputation by working with a wide range of designers, architects, and clients from around the world. Moreover, they have decades-old relationships with buildings and their managers, which allow them to complete projects in formidable time frames.

In addition to remodeling services, this large contractor provides a full range of construction services. This includes basement remodels, attic conversions, bedroom redos, and updates for mobility-challenged residents. They also offer project financing to make renovations affordable for homeowners. This is an important feature, since not all homeowners have enough cash to pay for renovations. This is especially true in urban areas, where house prices are high.

The Renovated Home

Home renovations can be a great way to add value to your property and improve its overall appearance. However, homeowners should carefully consider the costs of a project before beginning. This is especially true for a full renovation, which involves a complete overhaul of an area or room. It may include demolishing walls and fixtures and installing new ones. This can be a costly project, but can also offer a high return on investment.

Home remodeling is the process of making changes to your house, such as upgrading the kitchen, bathroom, or living room. It can also involve adding new rooms or extensions. These projects usually require permits and inspections from the NYC Department of Buildings.

Many people prefer to renovate their homes rather than moving to a new one. This is mainly due to the fact that they can save money and avoid the hassle of buying or selling their current home. However, it is important to keep in mind that a renovate vs remodel can mean different things to different people.

Contractors Inc

While remodeling can be exciting, it’s also a big commitment. To ensure that the project goes smoothly, homeowners should hire a home renovation contractor that is licensed and insured. They should also ask for references and a firm bid before signing a contract.

Contractors Inc offers multifamily and commercial renovation services, including framing, trim carpentry, painting, drywall, and demolition. Its team specializes in historic renovations and works with clients to incorporate trendy aesthetics into their homes. Its team can even handle a full kitchen remodel, and it has plenty of financial backing to tackle large projects.

Another notable company is Finecraft, which offers high-end kitchen and bathroom remodeling services. This New York-based design-build firm is known for its honesty, dependability, and attention to detail. Their client reviews also praise them for their creativity and out-of-the-box thinking. The team focuses on the bigger picture for its clients and makes sure to keep within budget. It even works with insurance companies to expedite the claims process during disaster restoration.

The Home Depot

Buying a new house is out of the financial scope for many current homeowners, but home renovations can make their homes more comfortable and attractive. When choosing a contractor, it’s important to do your research and choose one with a good track record and strong warranty coverage. The best home renovation companies will also offer services like project financing.

Whether you’re looking to replace doors or windows, renovate your kitchen, or redo your bathroom, The Home Depot has experts ready to help. They can install smart-home systems, repair indoor plumbing, and paint your interior and exterior walls.

Unlike other national renovation contractors, Belfor Property Restoration provides extensive service for homeowners dealing with fire and water damage. They work closely with insurance adjusters to get claims settled so reconstruction can begin. Moreover, they provide free estimates for homeowners and their families. They also have flexible financing options and a team of experienced disaster recovery professionals. Their contractors are also background checked and insured.

Home improvement projects can add a significant amount of value to your house when done well. They don’t have to break the bank, either.

Freshen up eyesores like light switches and outlet covers by painting them. Or, use stencils to create a stylish accent wall. You can also make your patio, deck, and walkways look brand new by power washing them.

Paint

Refreshing a room with a new coat of paint is one of the most budget-friendly ways to refresh a space and instantly improve its look. With a variety of trendy colors available and DIY options such as stencils or stamps, this is one home improvement project that’s easy to do on your own without spending a fortune.

The entryway is a key focal point of your home and can set the tone for how guests perceive it. A fresh coat of paint and some new hardware can make a dramatic difference.

Another way to modernize a foyer is to install shelving, wall hooks for hanging jackets and scarves, or a bench. These cheap home improvement projects are simple to do and will transform an often-overlooked space into a functional entranceway.

Crown Molding

Crown molding is an architectural accent that makes a room feel taller by drawing the eye up. It also adds value to the home, especially when it’s well done and matches the style of the house.

While wood molding is typically pricier, it can last a lifetime when properly cared for. Many local hardware stores sell different styles of hardwood molding that can be stained or painted and installed with finishing nails. Medium density fiberboard is less expensive, but can sag over time and is susceptible to water damage.

Faux crown molding made of affordable materials like polyurethane or PVC is an alternative to traditional wood and costs as low as $1 per linear foot. It’s a good option for rental spaces or children’s rooms because it is lightweight and easy to remove. However, it doesn’t look as nice as wood or plaster and doesn’t hold paint well over time. It’s important to consider this before making a purchase.

Add Storage

One of the most affordable home improvement projects you can do is add storage. Whether it’s a pantry addition, wine rack or more cabinets, adding more storage to your home will make it more functional and help you stay organized.

Lighting upgrades are another cheap home renovation project that can have a big impact on your house’s interior design. Replacing outdated light fixtures with sleeker options like a chandelier over your dining room table, industrial-style pendant lights in the kitchen or wall sconces around your bathroom vanity will instantly give your home a new look.

These cheap DIY home improvement projects will not only help you enjoy your living space more, they’ll also add value if you ever decide to sell. So, don’t put off your DIY home improvements any longer. With a little sweat equity and your favorite DIY tools, you can create the dream home of your dreams without going into debt or ransacking your savings account.

Flooring

Flooring is any type of floor covering that lays on or is glued or nailed to the subfloor that covers a room. It typically includes carpeting, tile (whether stone, saltillo or the commercial “fake” type) wood flooring, or any other material that covers an area that people walk on.

Flooring can add a lot of value to your home. It can also improve comfort, especially if you live with children or pets. It’s one of the most important aspects of a home’s design.

Adding new flooring is not a cheap project. Depending on the material you choose, it can cost from $4 to $20 per square foot or more. However, there are some affordable options. For example, modular peel-and-stick carpet tiles can be used to create a rug or stair runners and cost around $3 per square foot. They’re also easy to install. Alternatively, you can shampoo your existing wall-to-wall carpeting for just a few hundred dollars or consider refinishing hardwood floors or re-coating tile to refresh them.

Whether you are remodeling one room or your entire home, the loan option you choose makes all the difference. The type of loan you choose will determine your interest rates, monthly payments and whether or not you have to replace your first mortgage.

It is a good idea to spread projects out over time. This will allow you to save money and prevent you from over spending on any one project.

1. Home Equity Loans

Home equity loans–sometimes called second mortgages–give homeowners access to their home’s equity, which is the difference between a house’s current market value and the amount of money still owed on the mortgage. They’re typically fixed-rate and disbursed in one lump sum, meaning you can be sure that your monthly payments will be the same for the life of the loan.

Because of this stability, home equity loans can be a good option for bigger goals such as home renovations or paying for college tuition. However, homeowners should always carefully consider the risks associated with these types of loans, which can include higher interest rates and a risk that the lender could foreclose on the home. Also, home equity loans can affect a homeowner’s credit score.

2. Home Equity Lines of Credit

Home equity lines of credit are a great option for homeowners that may want to finance a remodel project over time. They can help you avoid paying interest on a loan all at once, and they can also offer you a flexible credit limit. However, they may be less attractive for projects that require a one-time lump sum payment.

The amount you can borrow with a HELOC depends on your lender, the credit score and home value. It’s important to research the lenders that offer this type of financing to find the best rates. It’s also essential to consider the repayment terms and fees. They can add up quickly and impact the overall cost of a project. Also, keep in mind that this type of financing is revolving, so you can withdraw funds again and again as you complete the project.

5. Third-Party Financing

Third-party financing is an emerging option that allows consumers to purchase goods and services from merchants by letting them pay over time. This is a popular purchasing option in many markets because it can help shoppers bring home their desired items or services without having to dip into savings or take on debt.

Typically, this type of payment solution comes in the form of low-to-no-interest Buy Now, Pay Later programs or direct consumer loans. This option is a great fit for merchants who want to add flexible purchasing options to their businesses without having to invest the resources in building or maintaining this software themselves.

Adding third-party financing to your offerings can increase customer satisfaction and help you close more deals with consumers who may not have the resources to afford your product or service upfront. The best part is, you can choose the lending partner that best fits your business’s goals and values.

Home improvement projects can add value to your home, but they don’t have to break the bank. Simple upgrades, like a fresh coat of paint or cleaning out the gutters, can make your house look newer and more inviting.

Learn how to do the basics of home improvement with these wikiHow guides. Plus, find out which home improvements may be tax-deductible.

Home Improvements

Home improvement is a broad term that refers to any type of renovation or remodeling work that makes your house more functional, comfortable or enjoyable. It can include everything from upgrading your plumbing and electrical systems to adding new furniture or painting the exterior of your home.

Some home improvements are also tax deductible. According to TaxSlayer, capital improvements can add value to your home and prolong its life or adapt it to new uses, while repairs can be deducted in the year they are made.

If you are planning to make some home improvements, there are several financing options available. You can use a home equity loan or a cash-out refinance to finance your project. There are also tax credits available for energy-efficient upgrades.

Bathroom Renovations

Homeowners looking to increase the resale value of their homes should consider a minor bathroom remodel. While it may not be as extensive as a full-scale remodeling, swapping out old fixtures for modern ones can make the room more attractive. A simple upgrade of the shower head and vanity is a great way to do this. Upgrading to low-flow plumbing is also important. Potential buyers run away from homes with dated plumbing, and an upgrade can help keep them interested in your property.

Other upgrades include adding radiant floor heating and upgrading to a steam shower. These upgrades are more costly than other projects, but they add significant resale value. Similarly, painting the bathroom a neutral color is a good way to increase its appeal without spending a lot of money.

Kitchen Renovations

Kitchens remain a major selling point for homes, with potential buyers often making buying decisions based on the appearance of the kitchen. For this reason, homeowners should consider upgrading their kitchens. Replacing dated appliances, refinishing cabinets and changing out the backsplash can make a big difference in your kitchen’s appearance.

Other kitchen improvements that can boost resale value include adding an island, opening up the space and removing walls to create an open floor plan. While these improvements may cost a little more, they are likely to add more value than simple cosmetic changes.

Homeowners can also benefit from property tax exemption programs, which provide relief when remodeling a portion of the residence. These programs are available in many counties and cities, with eligibility based on the local property taxes paid.

Roof Repairs

The roof is one of the most important components of a house. It protects the interior from rain, snow, ice, and sunlight. It isn’t invulnerable to damage, though, and even a high-quality roof will lose its defensive power over time. A home inspection can identify the signs of deterioration and arrange for timely repairs. It’s a good idea to establish a regular routine for inspecting the roof, so that any problems can be identified and addressed promptly.

While repairs are necessary to keep a property livable, they don’t qualify for tax breaks. However, if you make an improvement that adds value to your property or adapts it for a different use, it may qualify as a tax-deductible repair. This includes major repairs, such as replacing a roof.

Window Replacements

When windows begin to deteriorate and lose their functionality, they can contribute to high energy bills. This can be a sign that it is time to replace them with new windows that offer better insulation, weatherproofing and aesthetic appeal.

Window replacements can be either full-frame or retrofit installations. The former involves removing the entire frame and trim while the latter only involves removing the window sash. Both installation options offer great return on investment.

Homeowners can choose from a variety of window frames, including wood, vinyl and aluminum. The best brands offer attractive designs and excellent energy efficiency, resulting in lower energy costs. They also elevate curb appeal and increase resale value. Window replacements yield an estimated 85% ROI, making them one of the most cost-effective home improvement projects.