Home improvement is the process of improving and repairing your house, whether it’s the interior or exterior. Performing this type of project can help you enjoy your property and earn some money as well. Listed below are some ideas for home improvement projects and the contractors to hire. You can also get a Tax deduction when you make renovations that improve utility and livability of your home.
Tax deduction for renovations that improve livability or utility
Renovations and improvements to your home can be tax deductible if they improve the livability or utility of the property. Depending on the type of renovation, you can claim a deduction for up to ten percent of the cost of the improvement. Examples of improvements include new windows, doors, skylights, insulation, central air conditioning, circulating fans, and heating and cooling systems.
In addition to improvements to livability and utility, you can also claim a tax deduction for home repairs. Whether they improve your home’s heating and cooling systems, or add a deck or in-law suite, these repairs may be deductible.
Cost of renovations
Home renovations are not cheap and can quickly exhaust a homeowner’s cash reserves. Refinancing your mortgage to cover these expenses can help. With real estate prices on an upward trend, the equity in a home can increase quickly, making the cost of renovations more affordable. However, it is important to weigh the pros and cons of refinancing.
Labor costs are a major factor in the cost of home renovations. The cost of labor is higher in many states than in others. However, if you live in a state where the rules for hiring contractors are more relaxed, you can expect to pay less for a home renovation. Another factor that impacts labor costs is local building regulations, which can vary greatly.
Contractors to hire
When hiring contractors to complete home improvement projects, you need to find one that has a solid reputation. It’s important to get references from previous customers and to confirm whether they’re licensed and insured. The contractor should be willing to show you their previous work, and it’s important to inquire about any complaints against them.
When choosing contractors for home improvement projects, it’s important to get a written contract. This document will protect you and your home, stipulating the scope of work, payment terms and deadlines. A written contract is required by law for any home improvement contract worth more than $1,000, and contractors who don’t follow this requirement can face penalties including suspension of registration, fines, and criminal prosecution. You can also ask a contractor for a written quote for materials. A low bid for materials or labor could be an indication of poor quality or sub-standard work.
Tax credit for energy-efficient renovations
In addition to saving money on utilities, energy-efficient home renovations can also be eligible for a tax credit. In some cases, homeowners can claim up to 20% of the cost of the renovation in tax credits. The tax credit is applied to the annual tax return, which reduces the federal taxes owed. However, these tax credits are only available until October 2014, and may change depending on new legislation. For example, France’s Ma Prime Renov program, which leverages the EU emissions trading scheme to encourage home renovations, may change this provision.
The tax credit is only valid for renovations made between October 2013 and October 2014. If the renovations are completed before that date, the credit is extended until October 2021. To be eligible for the credit, a property must undergo energy-efficient renovations worth at least three thousand dollars. Moreover, owners must provide receipts of work done during the tax-free period.