Home improvement can be an excellent way to improve the value of your home. It’s an inexpensive and easy way to make your house more appealing to buyers, and it can also add value to your property as you live in it. But before you embark on a home improvement project, you should be aware of some important considerations.
Safety
When you hire a contractor to complete any work in your home, it’s essential that you get the project inspected and approved by a building inspector or a licensed electrician. This is especially true for electrical work and plumbing, which can be dangerous if they’re not done correctly.
Be sure to check that the contractor’s business license is valid and he or she has the proper insurance to perform the work. In addition, be sure to ask about any warranties for materials or workmanship.
Your contractor should always be willing to provide you with a written contract for your home improvements. This should contain information about the work to be done, a payment schedule and as much detail as possible about the specifics of the project.
Know your rights
New York state law requires that contractors provide a written contract to all consumers who agree to have work performed on their homes. The contract should include a detailed description of the work to be performed and the materials that will be used, as well as the dates when the work will begin and when it will be completed.
The contract should be signed by both parties before any money is paid. It should be in writing and have the contractor’s name, MHIC number and address clearly printed on it.
Avoid contractors who do not have a contractor’s license and who are not willing to provide you with a copy of the license before the project begins. This is a serious violation of the law and could result in penalties.
Don’t Remove Walls
Removing interior walls is often touted as a way to create more space in your home, but it’s not worth the expense. The average cost to remove a wall is $92 to $197, and that’s not including debris disposal fees.
Don’t Take On a Whole House Renovation
If you’re looking for a quick and inexpensive way to increase the value of your home, think about doing some do-it-yourself improvements. Painting, re-grouting tile and power washing the outside of your home can all increase its value and curb appeal, and they won’t involve any expensive contractors.
Consider Small Renos to the Bathroom and Kitchen That Will Boost Your Curb Appeal
In the end, the best way to improve your home’s value is to focus on the things that most buyers are looking for when they visit your property. That means focusing on small changes that can make your home more attractive to potential buyers, such as updating your bathrooms and kitchens, or a redesigned front yard with a new walkway or driveway.