The Metro Atlanta home improvement market is dynamic. While mortgage interest rates have remained at comparatively low levels for the past few years, it's tempting to assume more people are buying new homes than are renovating or remodeling their existing homes. However, remember this: Because interest rates are so low, home equity loans and complete refinances continue to be popular ways for home owners to pull money out of their properties to make improvements. This article will examine that trend and what it means to the real estate marketplace.

Metro Atlanta Home Improvement is Popular

No doubt you've heard and read about the relatively low housing inventory in the current real estate economy. Because of the scarcity of affordable available housing in many markets throughout the country, prices have risen consistently in the past year or two. New home construction is underway in a number of regional markets, but new home sales prices have also spiked as builders and developers have to pay increasingly more for land, labor and materials.

Many home owners across the U.S. have enjoyed equity growth in their homes. This growth, coupled with the short supply and rising costs of new and/or larger homes, have caused these homeowners to put off – at least temporarily – the idea of moving into a new neighborhood or "trading up." Instead, a growing number of American home owners are opting to renovate or remodel their existing homes. If you're thinking of entering the Metro Atlanta home improvement market, you're not alone.

Recently, home improvement giant Home Depot – the largest home improvement retailer in the world – reported their sales for the first quarter of this year. Not surprisingly, their sales of $22.8 billion represented a 9% increase over the same period last year. In addition, the chain's online sales also increased more than 20% boosting the store's net earnings to just over $1.8 billion, exceeding last year's totals by 14%.

To what does Home Depot attribute their recent increases?

Craig Menear, Home Depot CEO, says some of the success is due in part to the sluggishness of the new-home purchase market. Armed with recent housing data showing lower than expected building permits issued and housing starts provided by the Department of Commerce, Menear said, "Housing data indicates continued tailwinds for our business," indicating at least a short-term forecast of much of the same for Home Depot.

So what does Home Depot know that we don't? Probably plenty.

A deeper analysis of the recently reported numbers will likely show an anticipated strategy for both Home Depot and home owners contemplating taking on Metro Atlanta home improvement projects.

Building permits in April reflected a seasonally adjusted annual number of 1.12 million. While that figure represents an increase of 3.6% above the revised March rate of 1.08 million permits, it's still more than 5.3% below that total from April a year ago.

April housing starts were at a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 1.17 million, which is 6.6% more than the revised March projection, but it's 1.7% below April 2015's annual rate of 1.19 million housing starts.

The bottom line: The pace of new housing compared to last year has slowed.

While some economists continue to be optimistic, saying the overall housing demand – including pent-up demand from first-time home buyers who've seen their rents increase steadily each year – will rise gradually. In addition, say these economists, home builders are becoming increasingly confident about their sales forecasts.

Others feel homeowners who may be reluctant to sell for fear of not having a suitable, affordable place to move to will be content to stay put and consider renovations or home additions until the market changes. After all, they've seen their properties increase in value, and with the right Metro Atlanta home improvement choices for their home, there's no reason to think the value won't continue to go up.

It appear's Home Depot is banking on the same strategy – in a big way. Their earnings reflect a feeling that home owners will remain in their current houses at a high enough rate to sustain their continued growth expectations.

From the first quarter of 2015 through the same period in 2016, Home Depot's total assets grew more than 6%. Experts point out that for a home improvement retailer that's a significant increase because it includes merchandise and materials in inventory, in addition to property and equipment. Simply put, analysts say, Home Depot is stocking up.

In another potentially telling move, the Economic & Strategic Research Group of the Federal National Mortgage Association (Fannie Mae) readjusted their 2016 economic growth forecast to 1.7% growth, a decrease from their prior forecast of 1.9% growth and the 2.2% level predicted at the beginning of the year. However, Fannie Mae feels the slowdown will be temporary and short-lived.

Fannie Mae 's chief economist Doug Duncan said, “Home sales are expected to pick up with the spring and summer seasons in full swing, amid the backdrop of declining mortgage rates, rising pending home sales and purchase mortgage applications, and continued easing of lending standards on residential mortgage loans. “Meanwhile, the homeownership rate showed signs of stabilizing during the first quarter of this year, as the relatively high homeownership rates among Baby Boomers have helped offset low homeownership rates among Millennials, many of whom remain on the sidelines due to ongoing affordability issues,” he added.

In the meantime, home owners will probably do what Home Depot thinks they will do – improve their existing home until the market can give them something more attractive and more affordable to move into.

You can find more articles pertaining to home improvements in the Atlanta Home Improvements section of our site below Atlanta Real Estate Categories in the column to your right.

We also post tips daily on Twitter and Facebook and would love for you to follow us there as well.

Metro Atlanta home improvement trends are focusing more on eco-friendly options. The good news is that homeowners don’t have to be sustainable home experts. By consulting the proper resources and using knowledgeable, trained installers we can all become better stewards of the environment.

Metro Atlanta Home Improvement: Energy Efficiency

Many homebuilding and remodeling experts say that energy efficiency and sustainable home ideas are not just a passing fad anymore. They’re here to stay. Whether you’re considering building a new home or improving your existing home, environmentally friendly, energy efficient housing is expected to be more popular. This is especially true among Millennials, both now and as they get older and start to move up into larger or newer homes.

Here are a few tips for "going green" as you plan your Metro Atlanta home improvement project:

Make a Plan. Green builders use the term, “net-zero” when describing the goals of new home construction or improvements to existing homes. A net-zero home is one that is ultimately capable of producing as much energy as it consumes. Homeowners that aren’t willing or able to totally commit to net-zero goals can make plans for it at a later time.

For example, homeowners may elect to take advantage of solar energy in the future even though they may decide not to install solar panels now. Green builders suggest homeowners begin in the design phase by positioning their home or home addition to the south. This will allow the home to capitalize on the sun’s rays throughout the year. In addition, install a solar conduit and solar meter on your home. It will be easier and more efficient to add solar panels and “go solar” in the future.

Environmental construction experts also recommend using the services of a certified home energy rater or energy consultant to assist you in developing your home’s plans, specifications and sustainability goals. One tip green builders say you should consider if you’re building a garage, for example, is to install a car charger for electric cars. The cost is around $250 and by doing it now you’ll avoid the inconvenience and potential greater expense of adding it later.

Seal Your Home. One of the keys many green builders recommend for Metro Atlanta home improvement or new construction is air-tightness for your home. For home treatment, for example, they are using a spray-on fluid membrane applied on the exterior walls instead of the traditional house insulation wrap covered by siding. The new weather-resistant barrier system is applied by spraying and/or rolling a substance having the appearance of black rubber paint. Green builders say the material seals “every nook and cranny” from the outside, making the house airtight. The barrier is permeable or breathable, yet it prevents moisture. The result is a combination of airtightness and comfort. Perhaps one of the best features of this new eco-friendly process is that it usually can be completed in a day, making your home completely sealed, airtight and waterproof.

Use Materials Found Locally or Regionally. When you use building materials that are found or sourced locally, you’re not only supporting local business you’re reducing the amount of energy required to transport materials from out of state. One green builder refers to this practice as “farm-to-table construction,” and gives this tip. Ask about old trees in need of removal. They could provide low-cost raw materials.

Often finding material resources near you is simply a matter of spending a little time researching online or making a few phone calls. Discuss the subject with your builder or home improvement contractor and ask him to try to take advantage of the opportunity locally produced materials provide. It can save time, money and provide a greater sense of environmental responsibility.

Select Eco-friendly Paint Products. You can help the environment when you choose a quality, eco-friendly paint for your Metro Atlanta home improvement project. Consider interior and exterior paints with low or zero levels of volatile organic compounds (VOCs.) Volatile organic compounds are considered a leading contributor to air pollution because the chemicals in their composition evaporate as they dry. The chemicals produce a light smog during interaction with sunlight. Environmental experts say when we breathe in harmful carbon-based paint materials, they can be hazardous to our health.

Employ Technology. One of the fastest growing and most popular features in sustainable home building and remodeling is the use of technology. Home automation systems – also known as “smart home technologies" – are allowing homeowners to manage their homes more easily and more efficiently than ever. Climate control systems, smart lighting, security and safety measures are all examples of how technology continues to advance and make substantial improvements to better homes and more energy efficient living.

Spring Into Action. Many homeowners fall into this category. They want to “go green,” but their lack of knowledge about the specifics makes them more than a little intimidated and overwhelmed. If that describes your feelings, consider your personal reasons for making your home more environmentally friendly. Experts say there are two types of homeowners interested in green construction:  those genuinely concerned with global climate change, and those who believe eco-friendly steps will improve the health of their family.

Regardless of the motivation, the move toward green Metro Atlanta home improvement and construction is happening now. Designing your plans and ideas with green benefits in mind will ensure you are doing your part in becoming more eco-friendly – and environmentally conscious. If we haven’t already, we can all start today

You can find more articles pertaining to various Metro Atlanta home improvement ideas and tips in the Atlanta Home Improvements section of our site below Atlanta Real Estate Categories in the column to your right.

We also post tips daily on Twitter and Facebook and would love for you to follow us there as well.

Metro Atlanta home improvement is popular these days, especially among first-time home buyers. Starter homes or “fixer-uppers” often give first-time buyers the opportunity to purchase a home with a remodeling plan in mind. However, the phrase “buyer beware” is never more cautionary than when you’re buying a home whose “potential” turns into a “money pit.” Here are a few tips to avoid falling into the dreaded, deep, dark money pit.

Spotting a Metro Metro Atlanta Home Improvement Money Pit

Of course, savvy home buyers will have a professional home inspector perform an inspection of the house they want to buy. And if it’s an older home or if you suspect potential problems there are some things you should know on your own –– before hiring a home inspector.

Basement – If the home has a basement, check exposed pipes and wiring for damages or excessive wear. Inspect the foundation for cracks or potential problem areas.

Roof – Inspect the roof to see if there is aging, rotting wood and leaks.

Layout – Will the existing layout of the rooms in the home work for your needs, or will you need to move walls, plumbing and electrical? Doing so can add up to be an expensive Metro Atlanta home improvement item.

Recent repairs – Look closely in all areas of the home to see if there have been noticeable changes in the paint, flooring, ceiling, etc. If something looks brand new — especially compared to an adjacent area — it could mean there’s been a recent repair, or there’s been an effort to cover up an issue.

Trust your sense of smell – A septic tank or sewer leak, a gas leak or even mold and mildew may be detectable by an unusual odor. Trust your nose to prompt you to inspect further to see if there’s a problem.

Before you commit to purchasing a fixer upper, remember these two final points.

1) As mentioned earlier, hire a home inspector, and
2) Make sure you’re ready for what may be ahead. Metro Atlanta home improvement projects almost always take longer and cost more than you expect, so make sure you’re really committed — emotionally and financially — to deal with the project at hand.

See more articles pertaining to Metro Atlanta home improvement news in the Atlanta Home Improvements section of our site below Atlanta Real Estate Categories in the column to your right. You can find information here on a variety of topics ranging from home buying and home selling tips to home improvements, home inspections, mortgage financing, homeowner's insurance and, of course, all the latest Metro Atlanta real estate news that affects all of these categories.

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The Metro Atlanta home improvement market continues to perform well as a result of rising prices and limited supply of homes for sale. Would-be purchasers who may not be able to find – or afford – their next dream house are thinking about adding a room to their existing homes. Sellers planning to sell their properties are also considering home improvements that may increase the asking price when the time comes to sell. If you fall into either of those categories or if you simply want to stay in your existing home and need more space, let’s look at room addition costs.

Metro Atlanta Home Improvement: What's the Cost?

The two components of adding a room to your home are materials and labor. Understanding their role and the impact each component has is crucial in keeping within a planned budget and timeframe.

Materials, of course, refers to all the construction materials and supplies necessary to complete the job. Lumber, plywood, sheetrock, paint, flooring, light fixtures and other materials need to be priced in order to have a projected cost, or at least a range.

Labor costs will entail the cost of paying for the work to be performed. There are several different options when it comes to labor costs. You can hire a general contractor to oversee the room addition or home improvement project. The contractor, in turn, will hire the subcontractors to perform the actual work. The subcontractors, or tradesmen, include frame carpenters, electricians, plumbers, sheetrock finishers, painters, flooring installers and others. You can also save a little money, perhaps, by assuming the role of the contractor yourself by hiring the various subcontractors and supervising the work performed. Lastly, if you have the time, talent, energy and desire you may undertake all or part of the room addition as a “do-it-yourself” (DIY) project. Whichever option you choose, it’s vital to establish a cost estimate, a budget and a completion date to make your Metro Atlanta home improvement project go smoothly.

Suggested Steps For Your Metro Atlanta Home Improvement Project

Decide how big the room addition will be.  Calculate the square footage (by multiplying the dimensions of the rectangular walls.) For example, if you’re planning to add a room whose dimensions will be 12’ x 18’ the square footage is 216 square feet. If the room is going to be square, say, each wall is 15’ long, then the square footage will be 225 square feet (15’ multiplied by 15’). Experts say room additions involving additional wiring and plumbing can cost as much as 50% higher – ranging from $75-$150 per square foot more – than that same room would cost if it had been built with the rest of the house. In addition, don’t forget architectural costs if you choose to hire a professional architect. Architectural fees vary from hourly rates to as much as 15% of the cost of the room addition.

Plan on the fixtures you want for the room. If you’re planning the addition of a bathroom, you’ll need to calculate the cost of a sink, vanity, bathtub/shower, and light fixtures. The addition of a bedroom generally would not contain those items – other than perhaps a light fixture. So, for a bathroom, make sure you include the costs of the fixtures and hardware (faucets, shower heads, drawer and cabinet pulls and handles) as well as the additional plumbing and wiring needed.

Make decisions on the other pieces of the construction puzzle. As mentioned in the materials section above, decide what you want the finished product to look like and calculate the cost of those materials. Don’t forget things like insulation for additional energy efficiency or sound reduction. Decide as soon as you can whether you’ll carpet the floor or use hardwood flooring. The same goes for the walls – will they be painted or paneled? Also, if you like crown moulding or chair railings, especially if you’re trying to match the other rooms in the house, don’t forget to calculate that into your price estimate.

Interview a contractor if you require professional help for the room addition. Ask for references and to see homes or additions he has recently completed. Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Have a full understanding of the labor charges and ask for a written quote on materials. If the estimate on the materials if higher than you anticipated, look into the possibility of providing the building materials yourself. It may involve setting up a line of credit or purchasing them in advance, but you may save money. Remember this important point: Have a clear understanding of “change orders” and their resulting costs. Make sure you get a price estimate before you ask your contractor to move a window, door or closet that’s already been framed up. Change order surprises are among the major culprits in wrecking Metro Atlanta home improvement budgets.

Be sure to consider other costs involved that may be overlooked. Additional costs associated with a room addition may include demolition, removal and disposal, even landscaping changes such as the replacement of grass, shrubbery, trees, etc. In addition, a room added to your home will generally mean a slight increase in your utility bills, homeowner’s insurance and property taxes. Plus, don’t forget to allow money for furniture and furnishings for your new addition. If it’s a bedroom you’re adding, consider the cost of a bedroom suit, a new bed and mattresses, flat screen TV or other entertainment, window treatments  and other items you may want.

See more articles pertaining to Metro Atlanta home improvement news in the Atlanta Home Improvements section of our site below Atlanta Real Estate Categories in the column to your right. As always, you can find information here on a variety of topics ranging from home buying and home selling tips to home improvements, home inspections, mortgage financing, homeowner's insurance and, of course, all the latest Metro Atlanta real estate news that affects all of these categories.

Also remember to Find us on Facebook and Follow us on Twitter!

Statistics show nearly 75% of homeowners took on do-it-yourself (DIY) Metro Atlanta home improvements in the past three years. According to a recent survey from Zillow Digs, 40% of them regretted that decision. It’s an age-old question: Should you hire a professional remodeler or do a project yourself? Getting the job done right the first time by somebody who knows how to do it can spare regrets later. Here’s a list of the most and least regretted DYI projects.

Metro Atlanta Home Improvements – "To DIY or Not DIY"

Adding or expanding a room was the biggest DIY regret among those surveyed. Over half of those responding said they were unhappy with the results of their DIY project. Most of that work was done to bathrooms or bedrooms. Smaller DIY projects such as replacing cabinet hardware or lighting fixtures fared better. Less than 20% of respondents said they regretted doing that work themselves.

Of course, saving money is one of the main reasons homeowners take on DIY projects. However, almost 25% of homeowners said they went over budget on their project. Larger renovations often went over budget, but smaller projects like painting or replacing plumbing fixtures were easier to keep within budget. One advantage a professional remodeler has over the average homeowner is knowing the materials needed to do the job. The professional can usually buy the materials at wholesale prices because he's a contractor or preferred customer of the home improvement supplier. In addition, the professional generally has all the tools necessary to perform the work. Most homeowners have only the basic tools and may have to buy or rent the tools they need. That can cause the price of the DIY job to get out of hand quickly.

Zillow Digs home design experts say DIY tips and videos make some Metro Atlanta home improvements seem easier than they really are. For larger projects it’s usually best to hire a professional. Many renovation or remodeling jobs require skills and experience the average person probably doesn't have. Hiring a qualified professional can help homeowners avoid costly mistakes, added stress and regrets.

The Zillow Digs survey included responses from homeowners across the U.S. Here are the results of the survey:

The 5 Most Regretted DIY Projects:
Add or expand a room (such as a bathroom or bedroom)
Refinish the kitchen or bathroom cabinets
Refinish the attic or the basement
Replace the carpeting
Refinish or install hardwood floors

The 5 Least Regretted DYI Projects:
Replace lighting fixtures
Replace cabinet hardware (in the kitchen or bathroom)
Paint one or more rooms
Install new kitchen appliances
Replace plumbing fixtures (the toilet, bath or sink)

For more information on Metro Atlanta home improvements, see the Atlanta Real Estate Categories to your right. We also post on Facebook and Twitter, be sure to follow us there as well.

If you’re a homeowner, you probably already know that a remodeler’s best friend is paint. Painting is relatively easy, it’s cheap and it can make a big difference in the appearance of your home. Therefore, it should be at the top of your Metro Atlanta home improvements checklist. Here are a few tips and tricks to help your next paint job go smoother than ever.

Metro Atlanta Home Improvements: Painting Tips

Try these ideas on for size –– and convenience!
Use a lint remover to clean dust, fuzz, or other debris particles from a paint roller.

There's no need to ever clean another paint tray. Simply line it with aluminum foil or a small plastic bag, pour your paint in, and remove and dispose when finished.

If you’re doing more painting the next day, don’t clean your roller or brush. Wrap it with aluminum foil, make sure it’s air tight, and put it in the refrigerator. It should last for days.

If you have an old roller, you can salvage it and use it again by trimming the ends with scissors.

Hate the smell of paint? Mix a little vanilla extract in it.

If your masking tape has hardened, put it in a microwave for thirty seconds and it will soften up.

Keep paint cans clean by wiping your brush on a rubber band stretched across the top of the open can.

When it’s time to clean up, put your brush in a pot with a little vinegar and heat it up on the stove. Even a stiff brush will come clean more easily. However, this works on latex-based paints only.

When it comes to Metro Atlanta home improvements, going solar probably isn’t your first thought. Adding solar panels to an existing home sounds to some like an idea that will never see the light of day. However, it may be time to seriously consider going solar — a new day is dawning.

Metro Atlanta Home Improvements: Let the Sun Shine

From 2013 to 2014 solar powered homes increased by 30%. Greater growth is expected through 2016 and beyond. In fact, California recently became the first state to generate over 5% of its electricity from utility-scale solar power.

The reasons solar panels should be considered among the top Metro Atlanta home improvements are many. Saving money on your home’s electric bill is one. Increasing the value of your home is another. For many, becoming a part of the movement to decrease our carbon footprints is an even bigger incentive. It is estimated that in just 20 years a home powered by solar energy can offset tons of carbon dioxide from the Earth's atmosphere.

One of the biggest challenges solar energy faces are the commonly-held misconceptions of many homeowners. Let’s address a few.

Solar panels are unaffordable.
Experts say the cost of solar panels has reduced dramatically. Ten years ago the average cost for solar panels on a home’s roof was $43,000. Today the cost is roughly $29,000. In addition, there are renewable energy tax credits available for homeowners who use solar energy. Plus, if you install solar panels on your home, you can claim a 30% rebate. That could give new interest in adding solar energy to your list of home improvements. Still need convincing? There are solar panel leasing options available.

In bad weather, solar panels are useless.
This is a common misconception. The truth is that solar panels operate off of ultraviolet light which is present even on cloudy days. Case in point: Germany leads the world in solar energy implementation despite enduring harsh winters with minimal sunlight.

Solar panels require constant maintenance.
On the contrary, rooftop solar panels need minimal maintenance. Manufacturers recommend you clean the panels with a water hose once a year. Normal rainfall will usually suffice. The only other suggestion is to make sure there isn't excessive debris such as pine straw or leaves that may block the panels from doing their job.

If you’re ready to look into solar for one of your desired home improvements consider this: not all roofs are able to accommodate solar panels. Contact a roofing contractor trained and certified in photovoltaic (solar panel) work by the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners. And do your homework. Ask for references you can contact.

If everything checks out, you may just enjoy the solar energy advantages resulting from your Metro Atlanta home improvements wish list. That’s guaranteed to give you a sunny disposition!

Metro Atlanta home improvement projects can be inexpensive, fun and timely — especially now as the holiday season approaches. You can give your home a minor makeover just in time for the first waves of guests or family you may plan to entertain. Let’s look at a few simple "spruce-ups" that will make the holidays even more festive.

Easy Metro Atlanta Home Improvement Ideas

The best welcome starts at your front door. You can make a tired and worn out front entry door look warm and inviting. Replacing or repainting it can really change your home’s appearance. Adding a festive wreath with a colorful bow is a nice touch. Pay attention to your landscaping. Often it’s the first thing a visitor sees from the road. Enhance your home’s curb appeal by trimming hedges, pruning trees, raking leaves and edging around flower beds.

Cosmetics for your powder room. One of the least expensive Metro Atlanta home improvement jobs you can perform is giving your bathroom a little facelift. Replace old cabinet or vanity hardware. Add a new mirror, lighting or upgrade your faucet. Even adding new towels and accessories will give a tired bathroom new life. For a little more money you can replace your toilet with a new, more efficient water-saving model.

Paint the town… or, at least, a room or accent wall. Nothing makes a dull, dingy-looking wall look better than a fresh coat of paint. Sometimes just painting one or two accent walls in a room is all that’s needed. Use an off-white, neutral color. An interior latex eggshell or flat paint will mask minor irregularities or blemishes better than glossy paint. Best of all, this is one Metro Atlanta home improvement task you and your spouse can complete in a few hours over a weekend.

Cut through the clutter and clean up the mess. We all have “those places” in our homes that just seem to be magnets for clutter. Whether it’s a drawer, a table or a home office desk, it doesn’t take long for clutter to accumulate. Go through each piece and make a decision to either keep and file, or throw it away. With a little focus and determination, the clutter will disappear before your eyes in no time. Don’t forget to vacuum up the dust bunnies. Once you’ve eliminated the trouble spots, take time to deep clean your carpets or area rugs.

Clean light fixtures, replace old bulbs and brighten up your day. Light fixtures and lamps are notorious for collecting dust. Give your fixtures a good cleaning with a little soap and water. And while you're at it, replace old lightbulbs with newer energy-saving bulbs. Your home will look brighter and more inviting to guests. And after all, isn’t that one of the reasons you began your holiday Metro Atlanta home improvement plan in the first place?

We have more tips for all you Metro Atlanta home improvement projects under our Atlanta Home Improvements section just below our Atlanta Real Estate Categories in the column to your right.

Remember, we also post daily on our Facebook Page, and over at Twitter. We'd love you to check us out there too.

Many Metro Atlanta home improvement projects are taking shape thanks to rising home values. There’s probably no greater investment opportunity over the long run than the growth in real estate equity. As a result, many homeowners are taking advantage of the opportunity to use that equity to fund home improvements by refinancing their mortgages.

Why is the Metro Atlanta Home Improvement Market Booming?

Financial analysts report refi's increased 68% in the second quarter of 2015 compared to 2014, the highest volume since 2010. Insiders say this is due in part to homeowners being able to access their equity more easily — and more inexpensively — and they are capitalizing on their home's appreciation while values are higher and interest rates remain low.

One major beneficiary of the equity refinancing phenomenon is the Metro Atlanta home improvement market. Increased home prices — along with the threat of rising interest rates — coupled with fewer homes available for sale, has made more homeowners content to stay put in their existing homes. And, when potential home buyers do this they tend to tackle previously-shelved remodeling projects.

Metro Atlanta home improvement contractors have enjoyed good business so far in 2015. Remodeling projects have been revived by homeowners flush with new-found equity turned into available cash. In addition, industry insiders predict remodelers will see a 10% or more increase next year.

It’s estimated that homeowners have gained nearly $1 trillion in home equity during the past year, averaging roughly $65,000 on a cash-out refinance. And, experts say, that’s more than enough to undertake a number of Metro Atlanta home improvement projects ranging from room additions to kitchen upgrades and most everything in between.

When homeowners are less likely to move due to the availability of new or comparable homes they often elect to perform improvements previously on the back burner. Luxuries such as backyard patios, outdoor kitchens, decks and patios and even swimming pools are within financial reach to many by way of equity gained from refinancing. While the dollar amount is significant, it still represents a lower loan-to-value ratio (LTV) of, on average, 68% — much less than of a decade ago. What this means is, homeowners are in a more grounded equity position than that of their peers during the most recent housing crisis, where many borrowers were “upside down” in their LTV ratios.

Find more tips related to Metro Atlanta home improvement projects by checking our other articles in the Atlanta Home Improvements section under Atlanta Real Estate Categories to your right. And remember, we post tips daily on Twitter and Facebook. Check us out there as well.

Metro Atlanta home improvements are often planned and made by senior homeowners and many of them make mistakes by not considering their future needs. As homeowners get older they should carefully consider remodeling and renovating their homes. Mistakes may lead to financial challenges as the homeowners reach retirement age or beyond.

Metro Atlanta Home Improvements: The Four "No-No's"

1. Renovating, Remodeling and Relocating.

Some homeowners in their late 40s and 50s buy or build huge houses and then take on extensive remodeling projects in the critical years prior to retirement. When they decide to retire they often elect to downsize, move to a different neighborhood, sell their home for a condo requiring little or no maintenance of yard work, or moving out of town to a warmer climate or to be closer to their children and grandchildren.

If they’ve spent a large amount of money on Metro Atlanta home improvements, they often discover they are unable to sell their home for an amount sufficient to recoup their investment. The lesson learned the hard way? Don’t spend money on remodels or renovations without knowing what your future plans for the house may be. If you plan to stay in the home for life, home improvements can be a good idea. If you plan to move within a few years, put your remodeling plans on the back burner and save your money for your new home.

2. Neglecting Future Needs.

We all think we'll be in relatively good health for a long time. However, statistics show that seniors run a higher risk of having a condition that may limit their physical mobility and comfort. Neglecting the possibility of a future need based on a health problem or shortcoming can end up costing senior homeowners a considerable amount of money. Industry experts encourage seniors to consider features such as first floor bedrooms and full bathrooms, no-step home entranceways and no steps between rooms in the home. Furthermore, Metro Atlanta home improvements, when planned, should include open floor plans and wider spaces such as hallways or doorways wide enough to accommodate a wheelchair or a walker. Other considerations may include multilevel kitchen countertops that are wheelchair accessible, appliances that are easy to reach and laundry rooms near the master bedroom, enabling seniors convenient access to washing clothes and linens.

3. Borrowing Money to Remodel.

As with any Metro Atlanta home improvements, it's always best to obtain cost estimates to ensure the project is affordable and worthwhile. For senior homeowners the financial overview is critically important. Seniors approaching retirement age or those living on a fixed income should think long and hard before they borrow money to pay for a remodel. Adding another monthly obligation to an already-strained budget should be avoided.

4. Paying for Renovations From Retirement Funds.

Some seniors assume that their retirement nest egg, dividends and investment income will be more than sufficient in their golden years. For some, it may be. For others, it won't be. So paying for Metro Atlanta home improvements from a retirement account may negatively impact available liquidity for the remainder of your — or your surviving spouse's — life.

Financial experts recommend only paying for home renovations if you have more than enough assets and cash to comfortably do so while planning for potential medical bills or other emergencies. Remember, seniors either out of the workforce or soon to be retired have limited options of earning additional money to replace cash that might be spent on renovations.

Want more tips and articles on Metro Atlanta home improvements? You'll find them to your right under Atlanta Home Improvements just below Atlanta Real Estate Categories.  And remember to find us on Facebook, and we post daily to Twitter.