There are few certainties in life, but one of them is that if you own a home, renovation projects will find you. They may come knocking in the form of an electrical issue, a leaking roof or any other can’t-wait tasks that must be addressed.

In addition to boosting your comfort, a well-planned project can increase the value of your home. But not all projects are created equal. Some might actually decrease your home’s resale value or make it less appealing to buyers. Read on to learn which improvements to prioritize, how to avoid expensive DIY mistakes and more.

Whether you’re remodeling your kitchen, adding an extra bedroom or installing new windows, there are some smart choices that can help boost the return on your investment. A general contractor can be a great resource for estimating the costs of your project, while a handyman can be an affordable choice for smaller jobs.

A home equity line of credit (HELOC) is a great way to finance big-ticket projects, such as upgrading the exterior of your house or replacing a broken water heater. But before you pull money from your emergency fund, consider all of your options.

It’s important to keep in mind that not every project is worth the cost and effort, especially if you’re doing it for a short-term gain. A buyer’s inspector will quickly spot neglected maintenance and uncover costly repairs, so it’s important to stay on top of things like cleaning rain gutters or replacing worn doorknobs.