Thinking About Remodeling? There's an App for That

Home remodeling is big. How big? $126 billion annually in the U. S. And, growing.

As consumers make decisions about upgrading their home, they’re turning to a host of new smartphone and tablet apps for help.

Here are a few apps that might be helpful.

Houzz– (Free) Originally designed for both the Apple AAPL iPad and iPhone, Houzz is now also available as an Androidapp. It features interior and exterior home photos, articles, product information and recommendations, and a social media-based user forum. Houzz also serves as an idea source for homeowners as they plan remodeling projects.

Claiming to house the largest residential design database in the world and an active community powered by social tools, the website, and apps provide everything from design inspiration, project advice, product information and professional reviews you need to complete your remodeling project.

Zillow Digs– (Free) Like Houzz, Zillow Z Digs is an idea organizer. Both applications are similar to the popular website, Pinterest, which allows users to browse photos and other images and save them to idea or project boards.

Available only online and as an iPad app, Zillow Digs includes cost estimates for many remodeling projects and links to more than 20,000 home improvement professionals and more than 30,000 photos.

CraigsPro+- ($1.99) This iPhone and iPad app provides you with access to Craigslist postings – including antiques, building supplies, furniture, and so forth. It also allows you to post ads things you wish to sell. It’s more of a shopping tool than remodeling tool – but quick access to online sales can be very helpful. Also available in an Androidversion.

The Home Depot- (Free) Home Depot HD designed this iPhone and iPad app to allow users to create a shopping list all their remodeling supplies. With access to information on more than 100,000 products, plus the ability to scan bar codes, look items up, and compare prices, you can save time and money without leaving your phone. Also available for Android.

ProConnection- (Free) Berkshire Hathaway BRK subsidiary, Benjamin Moore designed this iPhone and iPad app (not available for Android) for professional painters, but homeowners can use it as well. The app allows you to take photos and browse through Moore’s over 3,000 stock paint colors. The app also offers a connection to the company’s customer support.

Kitchen Planning Guide- (Free) Homeowners and contractors alike can use this app as a planning guide to keep track of information for all types of kitchen remodeling. It keeps track of plans for improvement as well as how the family uses the kitchen and is available for all major platforms including iPhone, iPad, and Android.