What are home modifications I should consider to make my home more accessible?

• <div><p>To make your home more accessible, think about <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/who-installs-stair-lifts.htm">installing a stair lift</a> for smooth transport between floors or a <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/who-installs-home-elevators.htm">home elevator for easy access</a> in multi-floor homes. Widening doorways helps wheelchairs navigate with ease while grab bars in bathrooms and hallways offer essential support. Consider replacing traditional door knobs with lever handles, which are much easier to use, especially for those with limited hand strength. Whether you tackle small changes or larger renovations, these upgrades can turn your home into a welcoming space for everyone.</p></div>

Are open floor plans more expensive?

• <div><p>Yes, open floor plans can be more expensive to build than non-open floor plans. The primary reason is the need for additional structural support to ensure stability, which can increase construction costs. Additionally, open floor plans need powerful HVAC systems to maintain temperature in a wider space. Finally, open floor plans need more flooring to cover a large area. If you are buying a home with an open floor plan, you won’t see dramatic price differences compared to a home with more rooms.</p></div>

What should I consider when hiring someone to raise my sunken living room?

• <div><p>Selecting the right <a href="https://www.angi.com/nearme/general-contractors/">general contractor</a> to tackle a job like raising a sunken living room can feel like an overwhelming prospect. Follow these tips to find, vet, and hire the best local contractor for your project:</p><ul><li><p>Get recommendations from neighbors and friends who might be able to suggest contractors they’ve used.</p></li><li><p>Request written quotes to help set your budget and expectations.</p></li><li><p>Verify your contractor’s credentials to ensure a professional and legal finished product.</p></li><li><p>Read the contractor’s proposed contract to make sure you agree to all terms, including the project timeline, cost, and materials. </p></li><li><p>Keep copies of all relevant documentation.</p></li></ul><p></p></div>

What is the least expensive way to convert a garage to a living space?

• <div><p>The least expensive way to convert a garage to a living space is to perform as much of the work yourself as possible, using materials you can acquire at discount prices, and avoiding making structural changes to the building. While you can’t control what type of garage already exists on your property, converting a detached garage to living space will cost 20% to 30% more, so going with an attached garage conversion will save quite a bit.</p></div>

How do you make white walls not boring?

• <div><p>To pair a unique sense of style with white walls, keep them well-decorated. Hang vibrant art or bold furniture to add color to the room. Add some texture and greenery to the space with plants. Choose accent pieces such as throw pillows or light fixtures with patterns. Having a white wall can be a plus as it allows homeowners to easily decorate their homes as they desire without worrying about clashing with the paint color. </p></div>