Many home remodeling projects can be trouble on your checkbook. A bathroom addition or window replacement will carry a huge return on investment, but these projects can also be quite expensive up front. However, there are scores of projects that can improve your home without costing an arm and a leg.There are dozens of projects that cost less than $500 that are smart home improvements, so getting down to the Top 4 requires a little direction. These are the projects that are best for fall.
1) Hire a Handyman: Depending on the projects that need to be accomplished, you can hire a handyman for less than $500. The best idea is to have a handyman out to identify all the maintenance that could be done: change furnace filter, repair drywall, repair loose doors and windows, clean gutters, put up storm windows, fix leaks, repair tile, winterize sprinklers, etc.
Remember that most handyman services have a trip charge, so it is best to have several items taken care of at once. Keeping these projects less than $500 is up to you and the demands of your home, not to mention the rate of the particular handyman. However, you can knock off these a few at a time without getting too costly. The main thing you are paying for is the peace of mind of having these projects finished.
2) Duct Cleaning: Basically, a super-powered vacuum is hooked to your intake vent, and everything hiding in your ducts is swept away. This is a process that can cost as little as $100 in some areas of the country, although we have heard that some companies charge close to $1,000. However, the average across all companies and all homes comes in less than $500.
This little improvement has big impact in that not only will your heating unit run more efficiently without all the obstructions, but this will also greatly improve the air quality in your home; the perfect project for people with respiratory problems.
3) Driveway Sealing: This is an excellent project that will keep your driveway from early erosion from the brutal sun and the quick freezes. Most companies charge between $.10-$.25 per sq ft, while some companies charge between $85-$100 per 1,000 sq ft. If you have a large driveway or if yours requires several coats, this might run close to $1,000. However, most homeowners can have this done for far less than that.
4) Carpet Cleaning: Homeowners often neglect their carpets until they get too many stains to live with. Carpet is supposed to be cleaned every 12 to 18 months; however most people have them cleaned every six to eight years. At around $.16-$.20 per sq ft, this smart little home improvement will cost far less than $500 for the typical home, while also extending the life of the carpet, removing allergens, and creating a better looking home. Better still, some companies will clean the carpets and ducts in one trip to your house.
