Home improvement is a part of the home renovation industry, which encompasses the sale of building materials, appliances, decor, and services offered by contractors and tradespeople. The industry has reached excellent growth results in recent years, even during the COVID-19 pandemic, and is expected to continue growing into 2023.
Homeowners can choose to invest in improvements that increase their own enjoyment of the house, such as new kitchen appliances or a deck for outdoor entertaining, or they can opt for upgrades designed to add value to the property when it is time to sell. In the latter case, it is important to choose projects that are compatible with other homes in the neighborhood and will appeal to a wide range of potential buyers.
It is also a good idea to make repairs and improvements that will help protect the house from damage or disasters, such as an electrical problem, roof leaks, or a crack in the foundation. These projects can also be expensive, but they are often a necessity in order to maintain the integrity of the house and prevent more costly problems down the road.
Creating a budget for your home improvement project is a must before you start any work. A clear plan and a solid understanding of the costs involved will help you avoid overspending or running into unexpected expenses that may derail your plans. If you do not have enough cash on hand to pay for a project, it is important to find ways to finance it without risking your home’s equity. Personal loans and credit cards are options for small projects, while home equity loans or lines of credit are suitable for larger renovations.
Some improvements can have an immediate return on investment, such as adding a primary suite that includes a bedroom, bathroom, and walk-in closet, or making energy-efficient improvements like replacing windows or installing a heat pump. These projects can also increase your home’s resale value, as many prospective buyers will appreciate the added functionality and efficiency.
During the eighth season of Home Improvement, Jonathan Taylor Thomas departed the show as Randy Taylor to focus on his studies. The final episode aired on December 8, 1998, and the show ended with the opening credits showing him in Costa Rica. In the final scene of the finale, Wilson (Debbe Dunning) wished him well and bid him farewell. A reunion special was later broadcast in 2003, with Tim Allen, Richard Karn, and Casey Sander reprising their roles with new interviews, favorite clips from the show, insider tips, and a question and answer session with the audience.