Home Improvement – A Popular Way for Homeowners to Upgrade Their Living Space

Home improvement, or renovations to a residential property, are a popular way for homeowners to upgrade their living space. Whether you are looking to increase the value of your home in preparation to sell or simply want to enjoy it more, there are plenty of low cost, high value projects that will add value and curb appeal to your property.

After World War II, returning veterans embraced the home improvement movement. Government mortgage insurance programs encouraged homeownership, and highway construction made suburban living accessible to a larger segment of the population. Large builders such as Levitt and Sons dominated suburban development in the 1950s, but even more common than new construction was home improvement.

Nostalgia for the past, combined with a growing interest in craftsmanship, contributed to a desire to historicize suburban homes. Television programs like Bob Vila’s This Old House fueled the boom in the industry by promoting DIY projects. Magazines and tool makers promoted the idea that fathers and sons could work together on projects to re-create male bonds lost when factory jobs replaced traditional tradesmen.

If you decide to hire a contractor for your home improvement, be sure that all agreements are in writing before any work begins. A contract should include a timeline for completion, a payment schedule and a description of the work to be performed including any changes from the original plan. You should also avoid any contractor whose contract does not have their name, address and MHIC license number preprinted on it.