Home improvement can be a big investment, but the right projects can add value and make your home more comfortable. The right timing for these projects can also be crucial, but there are plenty of ways to get started without dipping into your savings or going into debt.

In this article, we’ll help you determine what improvements to prioritize based on your needs and how much you plan to spend. We’ll also help you find some great DIY tips and expert advice to get you started.

A lot of the talk about home improvement centers on how much a project will increase your resale value when you sell, and that’s important to consider. But your own comfort and enjoyment of your house are just as important. If you renovate solely based on how it will impact your selling price down the road, you may end up living in a house that doesn’t feel like your own.

It’s also worth considering how much your local real estate market has changed since you bought your house. Some areas have seen a lot of growth while others are seeing more of a steady decline. You’ll want to stay within the median home values in your area to ensure you can attract buyers when you decide to sell. You’ll also want to avoid expensive improvements that have a purely personal appeal, like that water feature and koi pond you’ve always wanted. Unless you’re planning to sell your home immediately, these features will likely be a turnoff for most potential buyers.