Home improvement is a broad term that encompasses remodeling, renovation, and additions to your house. Typically, homeowners hire professional contractors for these projects. But if you’re handy and have the budget, you can take on some DIY improvements as well.

Homeowners are reinvesting in their homes to increase their comfort and satisfaction as well as boost the value of their property. The key is to focus on the right projects that will have an impact and add value, without going overboard in your efforts.

When it comes to spending on home improvement, consumers are most motivated by factors that improve their homes’ resale value, such as making it more energy-efficient, improving its overall aesthetic, and creating a more comfortable living space. Interestingly, most of these homeowners are also looking to boost the appeal of their home and make it easier for them to maintain it.

In addition to these main goals, homeowners are also thinking about adding personal touches and maximizing their living spaces. For example, refinishing hardwood floors, replacing the kitchen cabinets and installing a new bathtub all have a significant impact on a home’s overall value.

The biggest challenge facing the home improvement industry is the availability of skilled contractors. The good news is that there are many companies that specialize in this kind of work and have a reputation for quality and reliability.

Some are also licensed and insured. These companies may be able to offer you competitive prices and warranties for the products they use.

They should also be able to provide you with the services of an experienced and certified project manager, who will oversee your project from start to finish. This person should also be available to answer any questions you may have about the project, and be able to provide recommendations about other contractors who can complete your job.

Contractors who are not licensed or insured must be avoided as much as possible. Check their license and insurance status, and make sure they have a physical address and stand by their warranties.

Ensure that you have a written contract before you hire a contractor. The contract should include the project scope, a timeline for the completion of the project and a payment schedule. The contract should be dated and signed by both parties.

The contract should also have an arbitration clause. This clause states that if the contractors fail to complete the project as agreed, you can pursue a claim against them through the arbitration process.

Choosing the right contractor can be difficult, as there are a lot of people offering services in this area. The best thing to do is to compare the costs of various contractors, as well as their experience, reputation and length of time in business. You should also consider the type of company they are a part of, and whether or not they are registered with the state or local government to do home improvement work.