There is no doubt home improvement projects are worth the time, expense, and headaches you will likely get when doing them. The monetary value of your home increases if the project is done well, and is perceived as something that was necessary or that will increase the value of the home. In the Northeast Ohio region, there are many home improvements that will likely return the investment, and others that will probably only give you the satisfaction of having a prettier or safer home. Basement waterproofing is a necessity if you have a leak in your home. The value won’t be easily perceived, but the health benefits you will get with a dry basement are worth the expense.
For more about home Improvement projects, follow the links below.
10 things you need to see in a ‘good’ home improvement contract
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — From sidewalk replacement and installation of decks and patios to more ambitious projects such as kitchen or bathroom renovations, borough homeowners face big price tags that demand a detailed contract from the company hired to do the work.
Here are 10 tips from the Better Business Bureau about what should be included in any contract.
Review the list carefully and be sure that your written, dated contract includes all of these items before signing the document.
And always have a signed and dated contract in hand before you permit a home improvement contractor to start the work inside your home or on your property.
These are the items that should be written into the contract:
1. The home improvement contractors’ company name, address, phone number, and license number
How will a home improvement impact the value of your home?
GRAND RAPIDS, Mich (WOTV) – No matter the purpose of your home improvement, it’s a good idea to consider how it will impact the value of your home. With home values where they are, many people are looking at ways to either add value, do necessary maintenance, save with energy efficiency, or simply add some quality of life into their homes.
WHERE DO YOU START?
First: Research your project
What’s the scope of your project? The more you know about what your specific home improvement project entails, the more ably you can evaluate appropriate products and proposed services. This tip holds true for something as “simple” as interior painting and re-carpeting all the way to planning an extensive remodel or expansion to your home.
Second: Estimate the total cost of your home improvement project
Estimating the cost of your project is critical in determining the required size of your home improvement loan and which financing option will work best. Make sure to get estimates from several contractors to ensure you are getting a reasonable price. Make an allowance of about 10 percent in determining your ideal loan amount, as unexpected costs may arise during the renovation.
Planning a home improvement project? 8 ways to protect yourself
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — “Better safe than sorry.” This well-worn but true expression certainly applies to what may be the largest investment of all: Your home.
When it comes time for repairs, small improvements or more ambitious remodeling, the right choice of a home improvement contractor can make the difference between satisfaction about a job well done or huge headaches, including lost time and money.
Here are eight tips from the city Department of Consumer Affairs (DCA) — and the Better Business Bureau — to help you move in the right direction:
- Only negotiate with city-licensed home improvement contractors:Anyone soliciting or performing home improvement work in New York City costing more than $200 must be licensed by DCA. Check if your home improvement contractor and/or home improvement salesperson is licensed: Call 311 or visit the DCA’s Search for a Licensee page online.
