Tag: Toronto

The Benefits of Installing a Home Security System

Posted on

In a world where peace of mind and safety hold paramount importance, these systems offer an array of benefits that extend far beyond simple intrusion prevention. Considering the installation of a comprehensive home security system can be a proactive step towards safeguarding both your property and your loved ones.

Besides the obvious advantage of being able to rest easy knowing your home is protected, there is a wide range of compelling reasons as to why installing a home security system is a wise move. So in this article, we will discuss some of the reasons why you should consider a home security system. Enjoy!

Deterring Unwanted Intrusions

The primary reason that people in Canada choose a security system for their home is to stop any unwanted intrusions, by making it less likely that any potential burglars or vandals choose your home, due to the obvious cameras and alarm systems.

After all, these people are not interested in being found out, and thus might choose another property with less protection, or even give up all together. It is this initial line of defense that can make a world of difference, maintaining the sanctity of your home, and possibly the entire neighborhood in turn.

Real-time Monitoring and Alerts

Technology has advanced a fair bit in recent years, to the point where modern home security systems are more than just static barriers. Today they can come equipped with cutting-edge technology that allows for real-time monitoring and alerts.

This means that whether you are at work, on vacation, or simply away for the day, it becomes possible to keep an eye on your home remotely through your smartphone or computer. Any suspicious activity triggers immediate alerts, allowing you to take swift action or alert authorities if necessary. It is also great for keeping up to speed with babysitters or unsupervised teenagers.

Fire and Hazard Protection

Another substantial benefit of these systems, is that many home security systems now also come equipped with advanced and effective fire and hazard detection features. This allows you to rest easy for several reasons, not having to install separate smoke detectors or forget to replace the batteries.

Besides smoke detectors, you can also get security systems for your home that include carbon monoxide sensors, and even water leak sensors can be seamlessly integrated in the circuit. This means that you are not only protecting against break-ins, but also against potential disasters that could threaten your home and its occupants.

Reduced Homeowner Insurance Premiums

Many people tend to overlook the fact that installing a home security system can come with a significant monetary benefit, since many insurance companies offer reduced premiums to homeowners who have installed comprehensive security systems.

This not only enhances safety but can also potentially lead to substantial long-term savings on insurance costs. By proactively mitigating risks through such measures, you are not only fortifying your security but also bolstering your financial well-being in the process.

Remote Access and Home Automation

At The Handyforce we offer extensive home security solutions, some of which can integrate with additional home automation software and modules. This allows you to remotely control and monitor various aspects of your home, such as locking doors, adjusting thermostats, turning lights on or off.

This level of home automation and security will undoubtedly be bringing a new level of convenience and energy efficiency to your lifestyle, ensuring peace of mind, and possibly even the envy of neighbors and friends.

Exploring Traditional Renovation Styles from Around the World

Posted on

Canadian homeowners looking to renovate their homes are often fueled by a desire to create something different, not just something their neighbors or friends already have. By incorporating design elements from other cultures and countries, you can achieve a comfortable and unique design, but also keep it fresh and exciting.

From the rustic charm of European cottages, to the intricate detailing of Asian aesthetics, the world is a treasure trove of architectural inspiration waiting to be explored. In this article, we will focus on how Canadian homeowners can infuse these global influences into their own living spaces.

European Cottage Style

First up on our list is one of the more romantic styles, that fits great with any building that has exposed beams, stonework, and wood accents readily available. While it might feel slightly out of place in the Canadian scenery, we guarantee you that you will enjoy it year round due to the rustic charm and cozy feel.

To achieve this style in your home, you can use natural materials such as wood, stone, and leather. You can also add touches of greenery and flowers to create a warm and inviting atmosphere. A skilled company dealing in home services can help you add or expose the necessary elements to make this style come to life, by utilizing their expertise in construction and design.

Asian Aesthetics

This is a style that is well known for its intricate detailing and use of natural materials. It often features elements such as bamboo, silk, and porcelain. While you would be hard pressed to find many homes in North America that features the overall exterior elements that typically characterize the Asian style, you can still make the interior feel like an entirely different world.

In order to incorporate Asian aesthetics into your home, your best option is to use furniture and accessories with traditional Asian designs. You can also add touches of color and pattern to create a visually appealing space.

Scandinavian Style

Next up is perhaps the most suitable style for the typical Canadian home. The Scandinavian design principles are formed in a similar climate to the Canadian one, meaning there is a great emphasis on simplicity and clean lines.

And due to the relatively few bright and sunny days, compared to say California, this style often features white walls, natural wood, and minimalist furniture to increase the amount of light and sense of space.

To incorporate Scandinavian style into your home, you can use a neutral color palette and focus on functionality over decoration. You can also add pops of color with accessories and artwork.

If you wish to achieve an authentic Scandinavian look that seamlessly merges with the Canadian lifestyle, a professional home service company such as The Handyforce can be your greatest asset. Our expertise in optimizing interior spaces for functionality, while maintaining aesthetic excellence, aligns perfectly with the Scandinavian design ethos.

Mid-Century Modern Style

Capturing the essence of the 1950s and 1960s, Mid-Century Modern style brings a dash of sophistication to Canadian homes. Defined by geometric shapes, vibrant colors, and sleek lines, this design movement holds timeless allure that will make your home feel sleek and spacious.

At the heart of Mid-Century Modern design is a commitment to functionality without compromising on aesthetics. If you are looking for professional help to achieve this style, our services can help you navigate the intricacies of this style. We are well-versed in finding the delicate balance between preserving the authenticity of the era and integrating modern conveniences.

The Benefits of Upgrading The Electrical System

Posted on

Home renovations often tend to focus on the visually interesting parts, but many new Canadian homeowners tend to need an upgrade to their electrical systems as well, either in order to comply with regulations, or in order to power their modern lifestyles.

By investing some time and money into this aspect of home ownership, you can increase the safety, ensure adequate amounts of power no matter if you are running a hot tub or having the house full of teenagers charging devices and streaming Netflix. So today we are exploring when upgrades are needed, and why. Enjoy!

Achieving Higher Levels of Safety

When it comes to your home, safety should always be at the forefront. Outdated or insufficient electrical systems can be a hidden but very real hazard, often difficult to see as most of it is behind walls and within outlets. Aging wiring, improper grounding, and overloaded circuits can all contribute to a higher risk of electrical fires.

By upgrading your electrical system, you are taking a proactive step toward minimizing this risk. A modern electrical system is equipped with safety features that can detect and prevent potential hazards, offering you peace of mind that your home is a secure haven for you and your loved ones.

Modern Lifestyles and Increased Power Demand

In the era of modern technology, our homes have become power-hungry for countless devices, from smartphones and laptops to smart appliances and entertainment systems. The electrical systems of the past were not designed to handle the surge in demand that accompanies our technologically advanced lifestyles.

As a result, homeowners often find themselves confused by overloaded circuits, tripped breakers, and a general lack of power capacity. Upgrading your electrical system is not just about convenience; it is about ensuring that the power infrastructure of your home can keep up with the digital age.

Support for Home Additions and Renovations

Homeowners that are about to begin a home addition project or a large-scale renovation of an older property find themselves at an opportune moment, when it comes to upgrading their electrical systems as well. Not only will it boost the value of the property, but also help with ensuring a future-proof home.

If you have added a new wing to your home, complete with a home office, media room, and extra bedrooms, then you might find yourself dealing with insufficient power or new installations having trouble matching the old existing system.

Upgrading your electrical system during renovations ensures that the new spaces seamlessly integrate with the existing power infrastructure, often being a bit cheaper as well, considering the simultaneous exposure of segments of the electrical system during the renovation process.

Benefits of Upgrading the Wiring

In homes with aging wiring systems and switches, upgrading your wiring is more than just an option, in fact, in some cases it is a necessity depending on the age and applicable builders code in your area.

This is because these outdated wiring systems lack the capacity to handle modern electrical demands, leading to potential safety hazards. If you are unsure, consider contacting us at The HandyForce, where we can perform an initial inspection.

An upgrade to modern wiring materials not only ensures that your home is up to code but also significantly reduces the risk of electrical fires. Modern wiring materials are designed to withstand the rigors of contemporary power usage, allowing you to enjoy the benefits of a reliable and secure electrical system.

Small-Scale Renovations for Increasing Resale Value

Posted on

Typically homeowners consider large projects when brainstorming ways in which to increase their resale value. But not all renovations require you to add extra livable space or completely overhauling your property. Sometimes, it is the small-scale changes that can make a substantial impact on the perceived value of your home.

Today we will look closer at the art of strategic, small-scale renovations and how they can yield significant returns. From revitalizing key rooms like kitchens and bathrooms to enhancing curb appeal through targeted exterior upgrades, this article will guide you through a range of impactful ideas that are affordable. Enjoy!

The Power of First Impressions

Let us start with the exterior, as this is typically what potential buyers see the first. And in fact, curb appeal can make or break a potential buyer’s first impression of your home. As they say, you never get a second chance to make a first impression.

The exterior of your home sets the tone for what lies within, and small-scale exterior upgrades can play a pivotal role in drawing in prospective buyers whether they see a for sale sign driving by, or browsing realtors online. A fresh coat of paint on the front door, trim, and shutters can instantly rejuvenate the facade of any home.

Landscaping is equally important, as well-maintained flower beds, manicured lawns, and neatly trimmed hedges create an inviting atmosphere. Enhance the entryway with potted plants and a clean welcome mat to make visitors feel at home from the moment they step foot on your property. Finally, old and worn fencing can detract substantially from the visual appeal, and is not that expensive to fix.

Kitchen Revitalization

Almost anyone looking to buy a home will look closely at the kitchen, as it is often considered the heart of the home, and where most Canadian families spend a significant amount of time. While full renovations can be relatively expensive, the good news is that you do not need a complete overhaul to make an impact.

Strategic small-scale renovations to the kitchen can help make it much more appealing. Some of our favorite tips include updating the hardware with modern finishes that are in vogue, replacing outdated cabinet pulls and knobs.

If your budget allows, repainting cabinets and adding new, sleek handles can give your kitchen a fresh, contemporary look. Modern light fixtures, such as pendant lights above an island or under-cabinet LED lighting, not only illuminate the space but also add a touch of sophistication.

Paint and Refresh

Giving your home a fresh coat of paint is a relatively easy and inexpensive way to transform the look and feel of your home. When painting with resale in mind, neutral and light colors are preferable, as they create a blank canvas that allows buyers to envision their own style and furniture in the space. A neutral palette also makes rooms feel larger and more open.

Consider painting over bold or dated colors that might not align with a wide range of tastes. Beyond walls, you should also pay attention to baseboards, trim, and ceilings to ensure a cohesive and polished appearance.

Return on Investment

Finally, while large-scale renovations can come with hefty price tags, small-scale improvements can offer substantial returns on your investment. The appeal of these small upgrades lies in their ability to make a noticeable difference without breaking the bank.

Another benefit of opting for smaller scale renovations, is that it often times leaves open the option of hiring contractors to help with the actual work. At The HandyForce we would love to hear more about your project, as we are experienced in renovations, whether interior or exterior.

We understand that changing the initial perception can result in higher offers and a faster sale process, ultimately providing a favorable return on the relatively modest investment you have made with your small-scale renovations. Good luck!

The Benefits of Custom Home Renovations

Posted on

Living in your home should feel great, no matter if the temperatures outside are soaring or plummeting, if you are doing chores or relaxing on the sofa. Custom home renovations are a great way to add some personality to your home, while also upgrading the comfort and value at the same time.

Some custom renovations completely change the feel and look of the home, while others focus on a single room. Regardless of your wishes, these specific types of efforts can help you feel more at ease, making it your own little paradise.

So in this article we will take a closer look at some of the different advantages and options you have when considering custom home renovations. Enjoy!

A personalized home to fit your every need

As opposed to a normal renovation, a custom home renovation entails making the space your own and catering to your specific needs and wishes.

Whether that means adding an outdoor spa, turning the unused attic into a home office, or creating a modern and functional open kitchen area is up to you. The only limit is your imagination, and of course budget.

By not just going for the standard choices, but really considering what you and your family needs, you can achieve something truly personal that fits like a glove and makes you feel as though you never want to leave.

Increased Home Value

As long as your custom home renovations are not solely for your own enjoyment, meaning that other people might appreciate them as well, then your efforts might be rewarded in terms of a higher value once selling your home.

Whether you remodel with an open floor plan, connecting the kitchen and dining room, or modernize the hardwood floors and floor panels, custom home renovations can be a profitable pursuit. Just keep in mind what other people are looking for as well, and if possible keep your renovations as timeless and with as wide an appeal as possible.

Can improve the safety and add peace of mind

Sometimes these custom home renovations are not just about adding personal touches, but instead adapting the space to fit the human needs we all have. Older generations might want to install different handrails, safeguards and other gear to help avoid painful falls, or at least provide an option to get back on your feet if an accident occurs.

Families with young children might wish to childproof their swimming pools, make the stairways safer to traverse and so on. These things can provide an ease of mind, leading to less stress and worry in the long run.

The whole idea of custom home renovations is to solve an issue or address a need particular to you and your loved ones, so while the suggestions are some common things, the possibilities are endless.

Enhance the aesthetic appeal

Other custom renovations of homes focus more on the visual aspect. Whether it is removing all the old wallpaper and replacing it with modern ones, or knocking down that annoying wall that once housed an old stove.

The benefits of spending some effort on upgrading the look of your home are many, and includes making your day a little brighter, creating a more enjoyable home, and even impressing the neighbors or potential buyers with your newly gained curb appeal.

The Best Home Renovations for Increasing Resale Value

Posted on

Whether you are looking to get the most resale value out of your old and beloved home, or simply wish to spend your money the wisest, certain home renovations are known to provide better returns than others.

In this article we will go over the very best types of home renovations you can perform, in order to set yourself up for success when selling your home. We have tailored this list specifically to a Canadian audience, but many of these renovations also do well in the US and Europe for instance. Enjoy!

1. Renovating your kitchen

Perhaps no other home renovation can provide as much resale value as the kitchen. This is after all one of the rooms in which families spend the most time awake. And no matter if you are only using the microwave, or cooking gourmet meals on a daily basis, having a nice, functional and presentable kitchen will certainly entice future buyers.

Not only will this mean that your overall home can see an increase in value, it will also be a top selling point that convinces potential homebuyers to choose your home over the others on the market. If you are unsure where to start, renovating the kitchen is always a sure thing.

2. Renovating your bathroom

Next on our list is the bathroom. Once again an updated bathroom that keeps in line with the modern aesthetics and has a timeless feel can add significant value to your home. Some ideas to consider include upgrading the fixtures, adding new tiles, and installing a modern shower or bathtub.

In Canada the trend has been moving towards larger bathrooms than in previous decades, so if you have room for it, consider adding some square footage where possible. This can make the bathroom feel inviting and luxurious, adding even more value to your home.

3. Energy efficient renovations

Gone are the days of wasteful excess. Today many Canadian homebuyers are increasingly interested in efficient features, such as windows, insulation, and heating systems. By renovating with a mind for sustainability and efficiency, you can achieve reduced energy costs and make your home more attractive to environmentally conscious buyers.

4. Curb appeal

Spending some time on improving the curb appeal is important for making a good first impression on potential buyers, but be careful what you choose. Not all exterior projects provide the same levels of value.

A spa or pool will typically not increase the home value, and in some cases might even detract some value, or dissuade certain homebuyers due to the added upkeep and maintenance involved. Instead, you should consider adding universally useful features, such as a deck, patio, or outdoor kitchen, as well as refreshing your landscaping with new plants and flowers.

Final thoughts

Remember that not all renovations are created equal when it comes to adding resale value. Before you begin any major renovation projects, it can be a good idea to consult with a real estate professional in order to determine which upgrades are likely to yield the best return on investment for your specific market.

The Future of Home Services: Owning a HandyForce Franchise

Posted on

With many industries and sectors experiencing a technological revolution, the home services industry has been somewhat stale in recent decades. Sure, newer equipment and power tools have made it easier for contractors, but many of the methods and principles that apply today were also in practice 30 or 40 years ago.

HandyForce is a company that aims to change all of this. With our cutting edge way of thinking, we are bringing the home services industry into the 21st century. And you can become part of it too, by joining The HandyForce! Sounds interesting? Read on to learn all about it!

Why choose the home services industry

Canadian homeowners are spending more money with each passing year on their renovation projects, and thus you are poised to enter a booming industry. As a HandyForce franchise owner, you can tap into this growing demand and build a profitable business.

Unlike many other industries, this area is not overly saturated with franchises, which allows for an easier market share, less competition and fewer costs associated with advertising and marketing. Add to this that there will always be a demand for skilled labor, and there are many good reasons to consider this industry.

Becoming part of a success story

By choosing to franchise with HandyForce, you stand to immediately get a head start on your competitors that go their own. As a franchisee you benefit from a proven business model, with an impressive track record of success.

The HandyForce has spent years refining its systems and processes to ensure that franchisees have everything they need to run a successful business, enabling you to quickly learn the ropes and grow your business in no time.

Tap into our existing goodwill

With a HandyForce franchise you will also quickly learn that customers recognize The HandyForce name, and know that they can expect quality service and professionalism. This is because we have already laid the groundwork in terms of establishing recognition and trust for our customers, making it easier for you to get new clients.

We invest in people

At The HandyForce we believe in people. In practice this means that we provide all franchisees with comprehensive training and support, including an initial training program, ongoing support, and access to a network of experienced franchisees.

This will ensure that you have the knowledge and resources you need to succeed in the industry, and that help is never far away if you need it. As long as you have a willingness to learn, you will fit right in with us.

Access to our bespoke software

Last but certainly not least, we have developed a completely unique and custom software platform. This tool called “Portal”, streamlines business operations and provides valuable insights into customer behavior, effectively using data-driven strategies and concepts known from the tech sector.

This puts The HandyForce franchise owners in an advantageous position with regards to the future, as other home service companies might be left behind due to not incorporating technology at the same effective rate as HandyForce.

The Importance of Proper Home Lighting

Posted on

Lighting is a critical component of any home. Especially so in Canada where the colder months are filled with gray weather and skies clouding the sun out. Good lighting not only illuminates our living space but also enhances the aesthetic appeal and sets the mood of the environment.

And on top of that, proper home lighting can also have a positive impact on our mood and mental health. By ensuring you have adequate natural and artificial lighting throughout your home, you can thus set yourself up for success and a more enjoyable life.

In this article, we will discuss some of the important reasons for installing good lighting in your home, and how it can affect your daily life. Enjoy!

Helping with your sleep

Having proper lighting goes a long way in ensuring we keep a positive outlook in our daily lives. Both natural and artificial light can have a big impact on your circadian rhythms, meaning you could experience issues with falling asleep, or waking up too often during the night, if your lighting is not effectively helping you recharge your energy levels and regulate your internal clock.

Combating seasonal disorders

At the same time, here in Canada where the winter months can be long and dark, many people experience seasonal affective disorder, also known as SAD. This disorder can drain your energy levels, impact your mood for the worse, and in general cause a mental state of depression. This typically happens when we go from fall to winter, but it could happen at any time of the year.

Ensuring a comfortable working environment

If you are working from home, it is also important to consider the risk of eye strain, fatigue and other related symptoms caused by poor or inadequate lighting. With an increasing number of Canadians working from home, this is more relevant now than ever as poor lighting can even affect your overall productivity and induce headaches.

Keeps the homeowners safe

Whether you are living alone, with small children or your retired spouse, lighting is also crucial in staying free of accidents. Poor lighting leads to an increase in accidents such as falls, cuts and other injuries. By ensuring your fixtures output an adequate amount of light, you can effectively make your home a safer place to be for everyone visiting or living there.

Ways in which you can upgrade your lighting at home

There are many different methods to choose from, depending on your specific needs. We have gathered a short list of some of the most common options that homeowners choose, so hopefully you will find some inspiration here.

  • Adding more light sources can help distribute light more evenly and reduce shadows.
  • Installing dimmer switches allows you to adjust the brightness of your lighting to fit your needs and save energy.
  • Different types of light bulbs can produce different color temperatures. Some are more suitable for reading and working, while others are for doing chores.
  • Maximizing the natural light in a room can help reduce the need for artificial lighting and create a more pleasant atmosphere.
  • Smart lighting systems allow you to control your lighting from a mobile device, voice assistant, or home automation hub.
  • Replacing outdated or ineffective light fixtures can significantly improve the quality of your lighting.

If you are unsure about the best approach to obtaining proper lighting, consider contacting us. At HandyForce we are always available for a consultation, and we can provide recommendations and even perform the required work all together.

Why a Shark Tank Investor Endorses HandyForce

Posted on

HandyForce is not just a leading Canadian home services company, but also a successful franchising opportunity that offers individuals the chance to become part of something larger. By allying with the right people, we have found success in more ways than we originally had hoped for.

That is why we are proud that Shark Tank investor Kevin Harrington is endorsing our business model and company overall. And while Harrington has not directly invested in the company, the endorsement goes a long way in greenlighting or concept and philosophy. So if you are interested in learning more, then this article is for you. Enjoy!

Our unique approach to the home services industry

One of the main reasons why Kevin Harrington has given his stamp of approval, has to do with the way we have modernized the business model.

We are using modern, data-driven techniques in order to gleam insights from customers and use that to improve our marketing and services.

And seeing as how Harrington himself is a seasoned entrepreneur and business expert himself, Harrington’s endorsement carries weight in more ways than one.

We are different from the competition

By allowing individual entrepreneurs to start their own home services businesses under the HandyForce brand, we are able to distinguish ourselves from competitors who mainly operate in local areas. We have thus become recognized in many different parts of Canada, and our mission is to become a household name.

Our franchising opportunity not only helps expand the reach and results of HandyForce itself, but also provides new opportunities for aspiring business owners looking to be a part of something bigger than themselves, and achieve a headstart in the industry at the same time.

We offer an unrivaled customer service experience

Harrington knows full well that acquiring the customers is only one piece of the puzzle. It is perhaps even more important to produce quality results that ensures customers recommend the company to others, as well as return for their next renovation projects.

That is why we are fully committed to offering the best customer service possible, as well as only delivering quality work, no matter the size of the job we are performing. All our employees are passionate about what they do, and that shows.

We professionally train our staff

Many other contracting companies simply hired skilled staff from the same talent pool of options. We do things differently in this field as well. Our main goal is to hire great people with potential, and then train them in our specific ways of doing business. This ensures the same level of quality no matter who performs the work, and we also make it possible for employees to rise in ranks over time.

Final thoughts

When all is said and done, Harrington’s endorsement of HandyForce is more than just a celebrity stamp of approval. As a savvy business person himself, he recognizes our potential for success and growth, and is willing to put his name behind it. Something we are extremely proud of.

Click here to watch our interview with Kevin Harrington!

The Role of Home Renovations in Increasing Property Value

Posted on

Many homeowners begin their home renovations without considering the effect it has on the property value. And while this can work if you plan on living in your home for the next 8+ years, in other cases you might be better off considering what potential homebuyers would like to purchase.

We have gathered some of our best tips and tricks to help you learn all about how your home renovation can increase your property value, and which things might best be ignored if your main focus is adding worth to your home. Enjoy!

Consider the regional trends in Canada

Before we get started, you should consider the area in which you are picking the style for.

Homeowners in the more urban areas of Canada could go for a more modern or contemporary style, possibly even a Scandinavian style. The buyers in these areas tend to be more internationally oriented and are actively looking for these styles.

Compare that to the more rural areas of the country, where a farmhouse style or more traditional interiors tend to do better. Ultimately, the decision is up to you, but it can help looking at what other homes in your area have done, and you might even want to look at house listings to try and find a red thread between the different styles and home values.

Choose the right renovation

We have written another article on our blog, where we list some of the best types of renovations for increasing your property value. In short however, it all comes down to renovating the parts of your home that the largest amount of buyers are interested in.

Therefore kitchen and bathroom renovations tend to yield higher returns, compared to say basements or garages. Again this might vary depending on where in the country you live, so do your research before hiring contractors.

You might be well served by contacting a real estate agent, a home services company such as HandyForce, or other professionals that have the necessary experience and knowledge to provide competent guidance in this area.

Choose the right materials

No matter what room you are renovating, choosing too cheap, exotic or expensive materials can lead to a poor return. Striking a balance here is key to getting the most value for your investment.

If potential homebuyers notice that you have laminate flooring in the living room, they might make a mental note that they need to spend money on upgrading the flooring to hardwood, thus wanting a discount in the price.

The same goes for too exotic or expensive materials. These might look great as of right now, but homebuyers that are forward thinking might be concerned about the maintenance and cost of replacement.

Going green can help

We are not referring to painting your walls green, but rather renovating your home to be more energy efficient. By insulating your home, upgrading your windows to thicker glass, replacing old and worn doors and so on, you can improve the value dramatically of your home.

This is not just because these things result in lower monthly utility bills, but also because more and more buyers are looking for environmentally friendly and sustainable housing. And since this is not necessarily more expensive than alternative methods, this should be a priority for anyone looking to get the most value out of their renovations.