Home improvement is an industry that encompasses the sale of building materials, appliances and decor, as well as the contractors and workers who help to install, repair and upgrade these items. The home improvement market has seen excellent growth results in recent years, and is expected to continue growing.
Many homeowners choose to undertake home renovations in hopes of boosting their property’s value. But not all house improvements are created equal. In fact, some projects can actually decrease your resale value.
Adding an extra bathroom, for instance, may make your living space more functional, but it won’t necessarily add to your home’s resale value. That’s because new buyers may find the addition a turnoff if it doesn’t suit their own needs. A home recording studio, on the other hand, may appeal to a certain type of buyer, but it’s not likely to increase your property’s resale value.
Other projects that don’t usually add much to a home’s value include adding a swimming pool or installing custom cabinets. Instead, try to keep your home upgrades in line with the neighborhood. For example, if most homes on your block have two bathrooms and one garage, an addition that adds another bedroom won’t be as appealing to potential buyers.
But there are a few projects that will give you a good return on your investment. Replacing old windows, for example, will improve a home’s appearance and energy efficiency, says Fisher. It’s also a project that can be done on a tight budget. The most important thing to remember is not to go into debt for a home improvement. If you’re going to spend thousands on a kitchen remodel or a new deck, be sure you can afford to pay it off before selling your home.