Most new homeowners have something about their property that they want to change. And as family needs and design trends shift over time, many will eventually choose to remodel.

Homes listed in the winter offseason not only sell faster than those in the spring, but sellers also net more above their asking price at this time.

Whether you’re prepping your house to go on the market or looking for ways to maximize its long-term appreciation, these nine home improvement projects are great ways to add function, beauty, and real value to your home.

In our “bigger is better” culture, there’s an expectation that each home should be larger and grander than the last. But life changes which can prompt us to find a smaller home that better suits our shifting needs and lifestyle.