The costs of home ownership always include the cost of home repairs and improvements. Homeowners spend on average 3% of what their home is worth on home improvement every year. However, you can always cut costs; let’s look at some smart ways you can save money while you maintain and improve your dream home.

It’s important to do renovations which add value to your house. It might be hard to sell if you add too much or a personal touch to your home.

Remember your environment whenever you are making improvements to your home. For instance, having an uncovered deck in Los Angeles or a sun room that has no ventilation in Michigan would be nonsensical renovations that will have potential buyers questioning your house upkeep decisions. Do what you like, but make sure to keep the climate of the area in mind.

If you find that water is leaking underneath your sink or from your tap refrain from attempting to fix it on your own. Just put a bucket or tray under the leak to prevent water damage and call a plumber to fix the leak.

When it comes time to purchase furnishings, shy away from living room pieces that have active patterns in the upholstery. Bold geometrics, loud florals and colorful patterns will limit your decorating choices. Purchase furniture in solid, basic colors such as tan, black, blue, brown and green. In this way, you can change accessories frequently for a fresh new look. Throw pillows and blankets will allow you to add any patterns or design you choose but won’t let the patterns take over your room.

Hopefully, the suggestions you’ve received here will send you off to the hardware store with a little more confidence (and some great ideas for saving money) the next time you tackle a home improvement project. You can save money and still improve your home. You can have the best of both worlds!