Home improvement is the process of renovating and making additions to a home or property. This can include interior work like painting or flooring, as well as exterior work such as a fence or deck. Many people undertake home improvements for a variety of reasons: to increase the comfort and functionality of a home, to make it more energy efficient, or simply to improve the aesthetics of a space.

Home renovations can be very expensive, so it’s important to understand the return on investment (ROI) before beginning any project. Some home improvements have a much higher ROI than others, so it’s crucial to research the projects you want to undertake before diving in with a hammer.

For example, a new kitchen can significantly increase a home’s value, while a sunroom addition may not have as high of a ROI. If you’re looking to get the most bang for your buck, it’s best to consult with a real estate agent before starting any home improvement projects to see what projects will add the most value to your home.

While there is no exact definition of home improvement, it is generally considered to be any remodeling or repairing done to a residential building. This includes any alterations, repairs, replacements, modifications, renovations or modernizations. Additionally, home improvement also includes the construction or alteration of a nonpermanent structure attached to a residential building, such as a shed, playhouse or garage.

In recent years, there has been a dramatic shift in the way homeowners complete home improvement projects. Instead of hiring contractors, more homeowners have chosen to take on DIY projects themselves. This is likely due to a combination of factors, including the fact that home improvement stores have expanded their product lines and television schedules are packed with shows like Fixer Upper and This Old House.

Another factor driving the growth of the home improvement industry is rock-bottom interest rates, which have made homeowner financing more attractive than ever. And finally, the increased popularity of DIY home improvement has forced more traditional contractors to start focusing on their online offerings and catering to do-it-yourselfers.

One thing to keep in mind when undertaking a home improvement project is the impact it may have on future resale. The more customized a project is to your own tastes, the less likely it will have a positive effect on resale value. For instance, while you might love your home recording studio, a young family will probably not be as excited about it.

Likewise, spending an exorbitant amount on luxury upgrades will not necessarily pay off when it comes time to sell. While a $10,000 kitchen range might sound amazing, it’s not going to appeal to a wide audience of potential buyers. Try to stick with mid-range upgrades that will appeal to a large group of people, such as energy-efficient appliances or granite countertops. Additionally, if you’re planning on selling your home in the near future, consider keeping documentation of the project’s capital improvements. This will exempt you from paying contractor sales tax on labor and materials.