March 16, 2007

Home Improvements That Pay Their Way

Home Improvements That Pay Their Way

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Homeowners pay an average of less than $1,000 a year on upgrades to their homes, and many spend less than $100 a year, a recent study found. In many cases, the improvements aren't enough to maintain their homes' current conditions.

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If cash for home improvements is tight, focus on making low-cost upgrades that pay for themselves by cutting future energy bills. Simple improvements, such as switching to compact fluorescent bulbs or having your water heater and furnace checked regularly by a professional, can reduce your energy usage and extend the life of the products. If you need to make upgrades, consider installing energy-saving models such as tankless water heaters and ceiling fans with built-in heaters. If you need help paying the bills the federal tax credits and utility-company rebates are available for certain energy-efficient home renovations.

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What are your thought/feelings about energy-efficient home renovations? Would you be willing to introduce any of the ideas mentioned above into your household? Leave us your comment below.

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