Home Improvement Trends
Written by
Home improvement is a great way to make your house a more attractive and comfortable place to live. Whether you plan to buy a new house or want to add value to your existing property, renovating it is a good idea. Aside from making it more desirable, it can also give your home an updated look and improve its functionality.
One thing to keep in mind when embarking on a remodeling project is to do your research. You will want to verify a contractor’s credentials and their insurance before you sign on the dotted line. While there are some unlicensed companies on the market, there are plenty of reputable ones that will ensure your safety.
Another big ‘wow’ factor is that home improvement spending has been on the rise for several years. In fact, the average amount spent on home improvement projects has increased by 20 percent over the past seven years, according to the Angi research firm. This is a great indicator of the rising popularity of the industry and shows that professionals are in high demand.
Home improvement projects include everything from adding a deck to fixing the garage. The top three categories in the home improvement world are landscaping, outdoor areas and work outside the home.
According to the Axiom survey, consumers are most likely to take the time to undertake the aforementioned, albeit small, task. For example, more than nine out of ten people said they plan to put up a fence. Other projects included building a patio, extending a deck and repairing a shed.
It should come as no surprise that homeowners are looking to spend more money on home improvement projects. The good news is that it is becoming more affordable to do so. Many credit cards are offering an introductory 0% APR period, meaning you can finance your project for a full year without interest. If you have excellent or above-average credit, a personal loan could be an ideal alternative. Personal loans tend to be more expensive than home improvement loans, but their interest rates are typically lower.
The Axiom survey found that more than 40 percent of homeowners are planning to start a home improvement project in March, and another 25 percent are hoping to get started during the first two months of the year. Compared to last year, the number of people building a deck has jumped threefold.
The most important thing to remember when undertaking a home improvement project is to have a clear plan before you begin. Detailed project plans will make the entire process run more smoothly. Moreover, a well-planned budget can help you avoid a hefty overspend.
Although the Axiom survey did not find any real differences in the plans of a typical homeowner, there are a few things to consider when doing your own home improvement project. For instance, don’t forget to check for potential hazards like asbestos and lead paint. As well, consider the fact that not all states have the same regulations and laws.