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Home improvement tips
Resources to help you tackle your home upgrade

No project is too big or too small if it makes your home happier—and you know how much you can afford to spend. Take advantage of our free resources to help you bring your dream project to life.

Pick the right project

Some home improvements benefit you now—and are an investment in your future. Consider these tips to get the best value for your home improvement dollar:

Bigger isn’t always better

Seek relatively low-cost improvements that require little to no maintenance.

Stand out (in a good way)

Some projects help you distinguish your house from similar homes.

Green your home

Consider projects that improve your home’s energy efficiency.

Get inspired

Upgrade a poorly fitting front door. Refresh your kitchen with new cabinets or countertops. Convert unfinished space into living space.

YouTube videos can teach you a lot. But sometimes it pays to get help from an expert. Ask yourself these questions before tackling a project on your own:

Have I done a project like this before?

If it’s your first time, be prepared for the extra work and focus it will involve.

Do I have a reliable backup?

Get that contractor friend on speed dial in case you run into trouble.

Will this project involve structural framing?

It’s best not to tackle projects that involve cutting through walls. You run the risk of cutting through engineered lumber and trusses, which can lose their weight-carrying capacity.

Will this job require electrical, plumbing or HVAC work?

If your project involves cutting through pipes and wires, it’s best to leave it to the pros.

Do I have the resources to complete this job?

You might find the DIY route is not as desirable as you thought it would be.

Will this job risk personal injury?

Don’t risk your safety on a project that should be left to the pros.

If you’re hiring a contractor, consider these tips:

Get at least three bids

It’s tempting to go with the lowest bid. But remember that you get what you pay for.

Use reputable contractors

Get recommendations and reach out to references. Only choose contractors you trust.

Request a contract

Don’t sign anything until you fully understand all the terms.

Plan for it to take longer

It’s best for your calendar (and expectations) to assume projects will take longer than you think.

Keep records

Keep a file of all paperwork and payments related to your project.

Be clear on the final payment

Don’t make a final payment until you’re satisfied with the job. Identify what that means in the contract.

Paying for your investment

Whether you decide to DIY or call in the experts, home improvement projects can add up. Consider these ways to help you pay for your upgrade:

Save for your goal

If your upgrade can wait, start saving for your goal! See why naming your goal can help you save more here.

Start your savings goal >

Get Rewarded

Using a credit card to pay for some expenses can help you earn rewards. But make sure your rewards outweigh any interest you’ll pay if you can’t pay your balance in full each month.

Choose the best rewards card for you >

No equity? No problem

You can also consider a home improvement loan or all-purpose personal loan.

Explore personal loans >

Use your equity

Equity is the part of your home that belongs to you, not your lender. You might be able to borrow money against your equity through a home equity line of credit or home equity loan.

Explore using your equity >

See how these Dupaco members renovated their homes
Couple Uses Home Equity To Help Reach Their Dream

Couple uses home equity to help reach their dream

One couple’s dream was put on hold when they faced the unexpected. But they continue to fight for their health – and their dream home.

Read More >

Circle Of Life: Members Renovate House To Bring Mom Home

Circle of life: Members renovate house to bring mom home

The Wiederins wanted to invite Mom to live with them. But their Manning home wasn’t accessible for her. So they got to work.

Read More >

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