At first, it would seem that 2009 is all about saving money. But while things have slowed down a bit, the home improvement industry is certainly not devastated. Want proof? Just take pay a visit to a local home improvement big box store this weekend-yep-there are still plenty of homeowners and contractors alike keeping themselves quite busy with new projects. Keeping all of this in mind, here are what promise to be the top 5 home improvement ideas for 2009.
1. Energy Slashing HVAC Upgrades
Remember the old saying, “a penny saved is a penny earned?” Well, in a way, that philosophy holds quite true when it comes to having a new highly energy efficient heating and air conditioning system installed. Every dollar invested in the new system will both improve the comfort level of your home and pay for itself through energy savings-often in just a few quick years. It might even be possible to score a nice little tax credit for having the energy-saving upgrade done. 2009 is the time.
2. Green Technology Installation
Going green has been all the rage for the last several years now. With that said, it’s also very clear that the trend is not going away any time soon. Having green improvements made-such as the installation of a tankless water heater, programmable thermostat, rain water powered lawn sprinkler system, and water saving shower heads look to be some of the most often implemented home improvements when we look back in retrospect at 2009. After all, these improvements are not only affordable, but they all save serious money in the long run and provide significant positive environmental impact.
3. More Luxurious Living Outdoors
Getting back to the basics, more and more families are going against the masses and choosing a purposefully slower pace lately-slowing down and enjoying the relaxing tranquility of outdoor living is more popular than ever! While patios seem to have taken a favorable lead with homeowners, when compared to decks over the last couple years, both remain very attractive improvements. The best part is that having a patio installer construct a new outdoor living area for your home is only a fraction of the cost of adding on an indoor addition.
4. Hot Ticket Home Theaters
Okay, not sure if this one really qualifies as a bonafide home improvement or not, but one thing is certain-2009 is definitely the year of affordable big flat screen T.V.’s, making this year a better time than ever to have your dream home theater created in a nook of the family room or custom built from scratch to perfection in that dusty old basement storage room. Great deals are plentiful this year on audio/video equipment, home theater worthy furniture, and of course, any construction supplies and labor required to turn the dream into reality.
5. Spa-Worthy Small Touches
Sometimes the simplest (and most budget-friendly) upgrades offer the biggest bang for the buck. For 2009, tasteful but simple home improvements promise to hold tons of promise. For example, having the master bedroom or bathroom re-painted and decorated with the latest soothing finishes makes staying in just as attractive as spending a mini fortune away on a spa weekend. Small touches of luxury in the home offer incredible value.
While going all out is not really in for 2009, there are still plenty of affordable home improvement ideas that you’ll be sure to appreciate for many years to come. Best to book a contractor as early as possible this year-the pros that are sticking with their trades through tough economic times are busier now than ever before!