In 2022, home improvement contractors are expecting to be busier than ever. With the U.S. labor shortage and supply chain issues still in play as we enter the new year, planning ahead and preparing for your big projects is wise. The further ahead you can get on a contractor's schedule, the smoother your project is likely to go. Booking early gives you additional time for planning and design and more room for contractors to line up materials and labor. Here's a rundown of some major home projects and their costs so you can start planning, budgeting and hiring right now.
Winter: Kitchen remodeling
National average: $13,000-$38,000
Remodeling your kitchen, the heart and hearth of your home, is one of the most rewarding projects a homeowner can take on. It can also be among the most costly and intimidating, so connecting with a reliable kitchen designer and contractor early on is a good idea. As a bonus, it has an excellent return on investment for your resale value.
The kitchen is often the home's social center, so think about how you want it to interact with the rest of the home when you're entertaining.
Spring: Adding an in-ground pool
National average: $36,000-$66,500
Installing a swimming pool can add luxury like no other addition to your house. Pools offer many years of enjoyment, and an in-ground model can enhance your home's value.
When hiring a swimming pool installer, take great care to research them and solicit multiple bids. A pool is a significant investment that may take several weeks to install, but if you start in the spring, you'll be splashing by summer. It's worth it to take extra time to get the right professional.
Summer: Roofing
National average: $5,500-$11,600
Early summer is an ideal time to do a roofing job in most climates, since spring rain has stopped and late summer's heat and humidity haven't set in. A new roof is one of the most visible and expensive home improvements you can make. You'll want to carefully select your material choices and contractor because you'll be living with this change for decades. Protect your investment by verifying licensing, bonding and insurance, and only hiring vetted local pros.
Material cost is the biggest impact on your final price. Slate is the most expensive option, followed by copper, aluminum and steel. Slate and steel are some of the most robust materials you can buy, while copper and aluminum are long-lasting but easily dented.
Fall: Basement remodeling
National average: $12,000-$33,000
In real estate, you can't technically factor a basement into a home's square footage. But a good basement renovation can make your home more attractive to buyers and increase resale value. Follow this rule when making your basement remodeling decisions: Finish the basement to fit your hobbies or lifestyle if you expect to live in your home for a long time. Kicking off a basement remodel in the fall will give you a comfortable place to hunker down with your hobbies come winter. If you're planning on selling your house soon, go with products and finishes that appeal to the broadest range of buyers.