Not only is a home the most expensive thing you will ever purchase (most likely) — it’s also something you are likely to develop a strong attachment to. We spend more time in our homes than anywhere else, so it’s normal to want to make this space as comfortable and enjoyable as possible.
Taking on periodic renovation projects will not only add value to your house, but will make your house a place where you truly want to spend time.
So what are the most common home renovation projects? The answer may vary depending on the age and style of the home, where in the country you live, but the following are three of the most commonly pursued home renovations.
1. Bathroom remodeling
There are plenty of reasons why homeowners choose to invest in bathroom renovations. Not only are old bathrooms visually dated, they often have structural problems. Some homeowners discover plumbing problems in their old bathrooms that need to be taken care of, making a renovation immediately sensible and necessary. In other cases, bathrooms with poor ventilation may acquire a buildup of mold and mildew that necessitates removing old walls or fixtures. As the bathroom is one room that gets frequent use, it is often an area where people feel it is worth the money to have in top condition.
2. Kitchen remodeling
You don’t need to be a gourmet chef to appreciate the benefits of a remodeled kitchen. While this is a job that can be costly and cumbersome, kitchen renovations are fairly common among homeowners. Like bathrooms, the kitchen is a room that gets regular use and where your family is likely to spend a good deal of time. Homeowners often find that kitchens in older homes have out-of-date appliances, or are showing wear and tear, and know that a new kitchen is a sure way to add value to their home. Additionally, there can often be tax breaks or incentives for updating a kitchen with energy-efficient appliances that offset the cost of renovations.
3. Room additions
When it comes to home value, square feet matter. The most obvious way to add space to your home is to add a new room. This is a common decision for homeowners who have growing families, or who just want more available living space. The cost and complexity of an add-on will depend greatly on the details of the job, but many homeowners go for this option. At the end of the day, it’s an easy enough way to get an extra bedroom or den while also adding value to your home.
Finding the right contractor
Whatever project you decide to take on in the home renovation world, it’s important to choose a contractor with expertise in that specific area. A kitchen renovation is not at all like adding on a room, so the specificity of the contractor’s experience matters. Many of the most reputable contractors are truly capable of handling any renovation you can throw at them — but in order to find one like this, it’s important to shop around and ask to see a portfolio of completed renovations before choosing a contractor.