Home improvement is a broad term, encompassing anything from minor repairs to major overhauls. A few common projects include painting, installing new siding or decking, remodeling, or adding a bathroom. However, there are a variety of other home improvement ideas that can help increase your property’s value.
A home improvement loan can be a great way to fund the project. This type of loan is similar to a mortgage, except that the borrower does not need to put up collateral. In fact, some loan providers will allow you to borrow as much as 85% of the value of your home. It’s a good idea to look into different financing options before you start your project, though.
A home improvement loan can be repaid over five to 30 years. It’s a good idea to find out whether your local municipality requires any additional permits or inspections for your project. Also, check with your state’s building codes office to make sure your project complies with all regulations.
For the most part, home improvement is tax-deductible. If your project is considered a capital improvement, you should be able to avoid paying sales and labor taxes on the work. Aside from taxes, you may be able to save on interest. You can also consider cashback rewards for your purchase.
Another good reason to consider a home improvement loan is that many offer a 0% APR for the first year. This can be a valuable benefit if you are not sure whether you will be able to make the payments on time. But keep in mind that these loans are often more expensive than personal loans and can be more time consuming.
It is important to compare the cost of your home improvement projects, especially when you’re negotiating with contractors. This means comparing estimates, establishing a payment schedule, and researching the qualifications of your prospective workers. It’s also a good idea to ask friends and neighbors who have used a contractor for recommendations.
The key to finding the best deal is to make a detailed list of the items you need and a timeline for your project. Doing so will help you weed out companies that are just looking to get your business. A written contract is a must. It should contain a description of your project, a timeline, and payment information.
A home improvement loan can be financed with your mortgage or a second loan, but it is important to make sure you are making the right choice. While a personal loan can be a good option for those with excellent credit, a home equity loan is a better option for homeowners with less-than-perfect credit. The only drawback is that a personal loan will have higher interest rates.
If you’re not sure where to turn, the Axiom marketing firm recently asked consumers about their recent projects and accomplishments. They found that the most popular home improvements involve landscaping and outdoor areas. The company’s research also revealed that the most common DIY projects were painting, installing a new fence, and putting in a patio.