Are you considering a home remodel, renovation or maintenance? Most homeowners ponder remodels yet some are hesitant to take the plunge for a variety of reasons. For one, home remodels typically cost thousands of dollars. However, the long-term payoff is truly invaluable.
Check out these tips before planning your home remodel and you’ll find it goes smoother than you could have ever imagined.
1. Budget!
Be mindful of the fact that some home remodeling projects end up costing significantly more than anticipated. Set a budget before starting and stick to the budget’s cap no matter what. Resist the temptation to add nicety after nicety, choosing to honor your original vision exactly as you saw it in your mind’s eye.
Leave some extra financial space when planning the project as even a couple repairs and upgrades will make the cost balloon. If you aren’t sure how to budget for a home remodel, contact a professional home remodeler for budgeting guidance.
2. Allocate Space
Home remodeling requires moving furniture and other items out of the room(s) being redesigned. Be mindful of space considerations including worker entryways and walkways. Consult with a professional home remodeler to plan the room’s layout including potential storage space additions.
Above all, measure the space ahead of time, ensuring all the new additions including appliances and furniture can fit with room to spare. Remember, you’ll need extra space to walk through the remodeled room so be sure to plan accordingly.
3. Set a Timeline
Consult with home remodelers and real estate professionals to get a sense of the amount of time necessary to remodel your home or parts of your home. Set a timeline for the remodel including cleanup and you’ll have a better sense of how long you’ll be temporarily inconvenienced while your living space is transformed into your vision.
4. Balance Function With Form
A highly functional post-remodeled home won’t be nearly as rewarding as one balanced with form. Efficiency certainly matters yet it is only one piece of the home remodeling puzzle.
Balance practicality with aesthetic considerations when planning your home remodel and you’ll be thrilled with the outcome.
When factoring in functionality, extend your consideration beyond appliances and furniture to energy efficiency.
As an example, ductless mini split systems are a highly efficient means of maintaining the perfect indoor temperature and quality. Focus on efficiency and you’ll conserve money on monthly heating and cooling bills.
5. Be Mindful of Permits
Most homeowners are unaware of permit requirements and bylaws for good reason. The mainstream media including local news outlets rarely touch on permits and bylaws. Ignore the rules and you’ll end up with legal problems, delays and fines.
There might even be ordinances from the HOA or neighborhood that must be honored. When in doubt, ask a home remodeling professional for guidance. A reputable contractor will spearhead the process of securing the necessary building permits on your behalf.
6. Research Ahead of Time
Talk to neighbors, read online forums and search social media for “home remodeling” and related terms. Familiarize yourself with the remodeling process and you’ll have a better idea of what the process entails.
7. Be careful When Selecting Finishes and Materials
Carefully select all finishes and materials to be added to your home. Each individual finish and material alters the function, form and look of your living space. Choose wisely and your remodeled room or home will become an aesthetic whole that is greater than the sum of its parts.
8. Choose a Reputable Contractor
No two home remodelers are equal. Choose a reputable contractor with exemplary online reviews, the proper licensing and insurance. When in doubt, ask for references from previous and current customers.
If you are on the fence as to which contractor is best for the project, opt for the one with the most experience. In particular, contractor experience with home remodeling projects including the specific project you have in mind is especially important. Take a close look at each candidate’s website including “before and after” pictures before making a commitment.
9. Avoid What’s Trendy
Today’s trends won’t be on-trend a year from now or a decade from now. Gain inspiration from the trends of yesteryear including previous decades, choosing themes that suit your unique taste and your home will be truly timeless.
10. Plan Backward
When planning the remodel, start with an end date, then plan backward. Be aware of potential work interruptions including holidays, birthdays, family reunions, etc. Add extra time to account for those delays.
11. Mind the Season
In some cases, the season of the year impacts the pace of home remodeling work. Some contractors are busier during the spring and summer months.
Others prefer to work when the weather is warm as it makes transporting materials easier. Consult with your selected contractor for guidance on how the individual seasons can delay or otherwise impact plans.
12. Protect Pets and Children
Your furry friends and kids have the potential to be vulnerable amidst home remodeling. Recognize their susceptibility and plan accordingly.
Your home should have gates and additional safety equipment to prevent your pets and kids from entering construction spaces. If necessary, get a pet sitter or babysitter to keep loved ones safe.
13. Be Aware of Subcontractors
Subcontractors do work on behalf of primary contractors. Ask candidates who they outsource work to and do your due diligence to get a sense of the subcontractors’ merit.
14. Maintain an Open Line of Communication With the Contractor
Remain in contact with the contractor during the home remodel. Exchange phone numbers for calls/texts, email addresses and other contact details. If you get the sense that a prospective contractor is difficult to reach, choose a different remodeler.
15. Declutter the Space
Your home remodel will go much smoother if you declutter the room(s) to be redesigned. Move everything out of the remodeling zone and you’ll make the project that much easier for the remodeling team. If you run out of space for your furniture and sundries, consider renting a storage unit offsite.
16. Lean Toward Higher ROI
When considering potential remodeling, renovation and maintenance projects, prioritize those with a higher return on investment (ROI). Projects with the best ROI increase home value, making it easier to sell the property for top dollar down the road.
As an example, remodeling the kitchen, upgrading appliances and even adding closets are improvements with a comparably high ROI.
