Home Improvement – Adding Value to Your Home

Home improvement includes any renovation or upgrade to a home’s interior and exterior, such as paint, wallpaper, carpeting, windows, doors and other fixtures. It also can include landscaping and adding outdoor features like decks, porches or pools. Home improvement may also refer to a larger project, such as building an addition or putting in a new kitchen or bathroom.

If you’re thinking about upgrading your home for resale, talk to a real estate agent first to see what projects will add value. And remember, if you go over budget, it could hurt your chances of selling the house at a profit down the line.

Smaller home improvement projects are good for people who want to make a change without breaking the bank. For example, changing door, cabinet and closet knobs is a quick and easy do-it-yourself project that can instantly give rooms an updated look. Or consider adding a pop of color to an accent wall with bold wallpaper or painting the ceiling in a bright shade.

If you’re looking for a contractor to help with a home improvement project, make sure you hire someone who is licensed and insured. Maryland’s Home Improvement Law requires all contracts for work on a home to have the contractor’s name, address, license number and MHIC registration number preprinted on it. The contract should also include a description of the work to be performed and a time frame for when the project will start and be substantially completed.