Very minor home improvements can dramatically increase your home’s value. You can increase the resale value by spending a couple grand on your home. The following article has some excellent tips to help you develop successful home improvement projects.

A great way to lower the cost of your electric bill is to use a motion sensor light instead of a regular porch light. It can be switched on manually and the sensitivity can be adjusted on several models.

Always make sure that a company you hire is a legitimate one. Make sure that the company you choose conducts business face-to-face. Try to get with a company that has a good reputation.

When planning a major home renovation project, hire a professional architect or designer to create your plans. Unless you are a professional, your plans may not contain the correct function. A professional will plan for renovations that will meet building codes and will add value to your home.

Before you go to the home improvement center, be sure to make a complete list of necessary items. If you make a list of things you need, you will not have to go back.

If a contractor will be performing your project, keep records. Don’t make any assumptions that your contractor will do so. Save any contracts and invoices related to your project. Such records can help both you and the contractor stay organized and focused.

When thinking about projects that can improve your home, do not overlook the landscaping. The front of your home, including the yard, is the first thing that others see of your residence. Sometimes it is the only thing people see. Not enough people focus on their lawns. Neat, green grass, blooming flowers, stone walkways — these things really add a lot of appeal.

When it’s time to redo a roof, try getting tile that’s white or something that’s light colored. Lighter colors reflect the sun more efficiently, lessening the build up of heat in your attic. This will help you save a lot of money on your cooling and heating bills.

Natural lighting in the basement is something that most people don’t have in their homes. Be sure you make your basement more livable by placing artificial lighting in good positions there. Some basements have walls which reach above the ground outside. If this is the case for you, you may have the ability to pit in windows so that you can let some natural light in.

Identifying the volume of paint you need is essential to do before you start painting anything. Don’t guesstimate; that can cost you lots if you make a mistake. Figuring out how much paint you will need can save you time and money.

Necessary home improvements are more likely to get done when homeowners set aside money for them in advance. Anyone who sets aside a good-sized amount every year for home maintenance is going to have a house that stays in better shape. If any money remains in the budget when the year ends, it may be allocated for future, larger home remodeling projects.

It can be expensive to buy new furniture. Add a little extra flare to any apartment or room by shopping at local stores and thrift-markets that offer killer deals. Sometimes you can find some great treasures in the used items in these stores. You might have to touch them up, but they could be a great addition to your home.

Now you know that improving your home is not that hard. As long as you plan ahead, you’ll be ready for anything. Try using these ideas to boost your home’s value.