What Is Home Improvement?

Home improvement is a common term for any kind of remodeling work done on a house or other property. It’s not just about cosmetic changes or repairs, although these projects are often a major part of home improvement; they may include building an addition, converting a room into another use, adding a deck or patio and other such exterior works as well as interior decorating or renovations like kitchen or bathroom remodels.

Homeowners are investing a lot of money in their homes. In fact, they spent about $624 billion on home repair and improvement projects over the two-year period from 2019 to 2021 according to the latest American Housing Survey. This marks a doubling of investment over a decade.

But not all home improvements pay off. Some actually decrease a property’s value, and the more customized they are, the less likely they will appeal to buyers.

For example, installing a custom-built master suite, which is one of the most expensive types of home improvements, might make it difficult to sell if it’s too much like other homes in the area or if the buyer has different tastes. This type of investment could also be very time-consuming and costly, which can reduce the amount of money you get when you sell.

A remodeled or updated kitchen is a great way to increase the value of your home. It can also boost your home’s curb appeal and make it more appealing to prospective buyers. However, it’s important to balance the cost and time commitment of a kitchen remodel with other home improvement options that have a better chance of increasing your home’s value.

Choosing the right materials is key to getting the most return on your investment. For example, using a high-quality, durable material for cabinets will pay off in the long run because it will stand up to years of wear and tear. However, some homeowners overspend on materials because they want their home to look luxurious, and this can detract from the overall value of the home.

Most people who are considering home improvement projects in the near future aren’t looking to target potential buyers; they’re doing it for themselves. They want to feel more comfortable in their homes or are looking to improve a specific problem, such as needing to replace an old roof or having outdated flooring. They also look to online content for inspiration and tips. In fact, 40% of homeowners say they turn to the Internet for advice on their home improvement projects. The Gale OneFile collection includes articles on home improvement, including architectural techniques, tools and material selection, zoning requirements and more. This is a valuable resource for hobbyists and professionals alike. Its easy-to-use tools, such as Topic Finder and InterLink, make it simple to find what you’re searching for. It also offers a mobile-optimized interface to support your research on the go. This collection will help you find the information you need to make your next home improvement project a success.