Betterments refer to a change or addition made to one's property that adds value and improves assets. This could be a new garage, an expanded living room, or even a walk-in closet. Typically, these changes are made to accommodate the homeowner's lifestyle and need for a growing family. For example, adding another bedroom can allow for more space if you have had another child since your initial home purchase. In some cases, it may not add value to your property but will add functionality that its occupants need. Types of betterments can include: Major betterments refer to renovations that create a significant change or addition to the property, which may require permits and even construction by professionals depending on their complexity. Examples include adding an additional room such as a family room, expanding living space, or adding additional square footage. An outdoor kitchen on your patio or poolside is also classified as a major betterment because of its functionality and increase in value for future resale. Minor betterments refer to smaller changes that are considered permanent fixtures but do not change the overall footprint of your home, which typically requires no permits or professional installation. Examples of minor betterments include closet shelving, new flooring and cabinets in your kitchen, a built-in bookcase, etc. These changes can add significant value to your home when it comes time to sell if you are looking for an easy upgrade that will also increase the resale value of your property. Betterments are important in the home improvement process because they add value to your property when you're looking for a quick way to update your space and any future resale. When it comes time to sell, betterment installation is often an easy upgrade that can increase its marketable price by thousands of dollars. Homeowners should consider making a betterment to their property if the desired improvement will add value and appeal. If you plan to make a betterment, here are some tips to keep in mind when making your plans. Even small changes can increase the resale value of your home when you are ready to sell, so always keep this in mind while planning renovations for any projects on your property. As long as the betterment is cost-effective and adds value or appeal to your space, it should be considered a possible option. Working with professionals to make betterments is important because they are familiar with local ordinances, codes, and regulations that homeowners should be aware of when making changes to their property's structure or function. If the desired improvement adds value or appeal, then you can consider working on your home yourself or hiring a professional for help. Minor betterments can be easy to do yourself, and they also add value when it comes time to sell the property. In contrast, major betterments are more permanent but will provide additional benefits as well. It is always best to consult with professionals that understand your area's building codes before beginning any home improvement project on your property. Types of Betterments
Major Betterment
Minor Betterments
Importance of Betterments
Tips for Betterments
For example, construction materials, labor cost, and time needed can all be factored into the overall budget of any project before you start.
If you plan on staying for several years or even indefinitely, a major betterment may be the more cost-effective solution in the long run because it will add value and functionality right away without future renovations required down the line.
These experts will be familiar with local ordinances, codes, and regulations that you should consider before making any changes to your property's structure or function.
Tying It All Together
Betterments FAQs
Betterments can be anything that adds value to your property when it comes time to sell. These changes can range from simple design upgrades like built-in bookcases and cabinets to larger projects such as adding an extension on the back of your house or even entire rooms in the case of a major renovation.
Minor Betterment: This is the easiest type of improvement for homeowners themselves or anyone else wanting to make some changes around their property without having extensive knowledge or experience in construction. Major Betterment: These are usually more complicated, but major betterments provide the highest returns on investment when it comes time to sell your property because they make a huge impact right away without future renovations needed down the line.
Betterments add value to your home, and they can even increase its resale price when it comes time to sell. They also provide additional functionality immediately without future renovations needed down the line, which means less time spent on construction and more space available for living.
Consider what type of betterment would be best for your property. Consult with professionals that understand local ordinances before beginning any project to ensure compliance and avoid potential fines or penalties. Look at homes around your area for inspiration when designing particular renovations so they fit into current trends. Minor Betterments are easier to do yourself, but there are pros and cons of doing them yourself or hiring a professional to help with major betterments. Always consider all options before making any commitments.
As long as it makes sense for your property, there are no specific rules about when home improvements should be made. However, you may want to take inventory of what needs updating or fixing first before making any changes that could end up costing more money than planned if problems arise with other parts of your home.
True Tamplin is a published author, public speaker, CEO of UpDigital, and founder of Finance Strategists.
True is a Certified Educator in Personal Finance (CEPF®), author of The Handy Financial Ratios Guide, a member of the Society for Advancing Business Editing and Writing, contributes to his financial education site, Finance Strategists, and has spoken to various financial communities such as the CFA Institute, as well as university students like his Alma mater, Biola University, where he received a bachelor of science in business and data analytics.
To learn more about True, visit his personal website or view his author profiles on Amazon, Nasdaq and Forbes.
