Tips

	Don't Move Improve! There are several good reasons for wanting to remodel your home. If your residence no longer reflects your changing tastes and lifestyle but you don't want to leave a desirable neighborhood. Altering your home by converting a bedroom into a home office, or upgrading the kitchen and bathroom are practical home improvement projects that add esthetic appeal and really pay off. How Do You Begin? Every project starts with a plan. Itemize everything you want and think you can afford, and include a design of rooms to be remodeled. If you are going to require professional help, now is the time to talk to contractors, plumbers, and other tradesmen, and to ask for estimates. When your list is complete, consider the amount of money you have available or are prepared to borrow. Unless you have unlimited funds, make a realistic estimate of what you can afford,with the economy being as tough as it is lately, where will people find the money to pay for their improvements? A popular option is to tap into the equity in the very house you’re planning to fix up. “When it comes to funding home improvement projects," consumers with equity in their homes have multiple options, such as taking out a home-equity loan, setting up a home-equity line of credit or refinancing an existing mortgage. What Projects Are Key? Home improvements offer many benefits: they not only make your home more comfortable, but can also be a prudent investment. Popular projects include: kitchen remodels, bathroom additions, deck additions, siding and window replacement – all improvements that, in addition to making a home more livable, may actually increase the value of a home. These particular upgrades will provide the best return for your money, and the real estate industry has statistics to prove it. Other Projects to Consider Adding or upgrading an existing patio, deck, or walkway, siding, windows, roofing can also be very worthwhile. Choosing the best remodeling projects will not only increase the long-term value of your home, they will also provide satisfaction and pleasure for you, the smart homeowner. Negotiate a Contract Whether you plan a simple carpentry job or a major project requiring the services of an architect and a general contractor, misunderstandings can lead to disaster. Do not begin remodeling without a written contract. Make sure everyone agrees on the work that will be completed and how long it will take. Also be clear on the types of materials that will -- and will not -- be used Get Permission In most parts of the world, a legal permit is required before you make structural changes to your home. The building permit assures that the remodeling project meets local building codes and safety regulations. If you live in a historic district, the permit also assures that exterior changes to your home are in keeping with neighborhood guidelines. General contractors will usually take care of the paperwork, but smalltime workers may not... and the permits become your responsibility.