(BPT) - Spring is drawing nearer and, for homeowners, now is the time to shrug off the winter chill and think about home improvement plans. Building industry experts say that it’s an ideal time to carefully consider and prioritize your plans – both cosmetic and structural.

Understanding what is an essential home improvement and what is purely cosmetic is fundamental for those looking to make a smart investment in their homes. The foundation, for example, is a key investment area during a renovation project. Hiring an energy rater, inspector or appraiser to examine the home will give a better sense of the required work and avoid any subsequent costly headaches.

If you’re thinking of going green, small changes such as using compact fluorescent light bulbs can contribute to reducing your home’s carbon footprint. Fluorescent light bulbs typically have a longer life and use less energy thereby reducing excessive energy waste as well as monthly energy bills.