Homeowners are spending more than ever on home improvements. In fact, the average cost of home improvements has reached the highest level since Angi began tracking the industry seven years ago. A pandemic-related spike in home prices increased spending, and materials costs shot up 400% compared to pre-pandemic levels. Angi’s chief economist Mischa Fisher says the pandemic helped increase interest in home projects.
The Scandinavian aesthetic is a popular design trend, not only in Scandinavia, but in other parts of the world, too. Its name, “hygge,” means coziness, and it has influenced home improvement projects all over the world. The Scandinavian look is also a great place to begin a home improvement project.
Home improvement projects can range from cosmetic upgrades to repairing structural issues. They can also include making additions to a house, as well as installing new features. These improvements can be carried out for several reasons, including safety, personal preference, and maintenance. You may decide to add a new kitchen, add a bathroom, or redo your garage.
Before hiring a contractor, ensure that you get a written contract. The contract should detail the timetable, payment schedule, and the details of the project. It should also include the architect or engineer’s plans, which should contain virtually every detail. You can even open an escrow account for the project, so you can make payments only when the work is substantially complete.