Home remodeling is an investment of time and money with the ultimate goal generally of creating additional space, increasing property value, or redesigning an existing room into more usable space. Before making an investment, the following tips should be considered.
Tips to avoid common home remodeling headaches:
- Once you have a budget, don’t deviate from it. As the remodeling process begins, many people will be working on your home. Everyone will have ideas that may seem like a good idea, but each new idea means an additional expense. Homeowners can find themselves spending thousands of dollars over budget before realizing what has happened. Consider all the options you need before starting work, then stick with your plan.
- Be prepared for the unexpected, even with new homes. Many people think that because their house is new it is in perfect condition. What it generally means is that no one has lived there long enough to discover any problems. Some problems can include termites in the walls, the need to rewire a room, water damage, or mold behind the walls. While budgeting for the job, a reserve should be set aside for unavoidable repairs or arrangements that need to be made during the process. If an owner is not prepared, stress and tension can result, as well as a slowdown in the process.
- Don’t ignore the permissions. While obtaining permits can be a long and time-consuming process, they are necessary, not only to let the city know who is building what, but also to ensure the safety of homeowners. Some permits have to do with structural integrity, size, and keeping property values high. A qualified general contractor can make sure you get the proper permits and that the entire process runs smoothly.
- Don’t follow trends. While silver may be this year’s new black in design, or open cabinets instead of closed ones, the trends don’t last. In five to ten years, your home may seem completely out of date, devaluing your property when you decide to sell it. Instead, stick with a classic look that will stand the test of time.
- Use quality materials. The old saying “you get what you pay for” couldn’t be more true when it comes to home construction or remodeling. Cheap materials mean that you will most likely replace them in a few years. If you can’t afford a remodel with quality materials, wait until you can. The result will last much longer.
- Go green. Energy Star appliances save money over time, but they also increase the resale value of your home. This is also true for eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient designs.
- Keep your improvements in line with your neighborhood. If you are the largest house on the block, you will not get the same property value that you would get if you were in a neighborhood where larger houses were the norm. Property values are based on the average cost of a home in the area. Putting expensive finishing touches on a home in a neighborhood where the houses are minimally furnished will not give you a return on your investment. Buyers will wonder why their home is so expensive.
- Be careful with DIY projects. Many people underestimate the expertise required for a successful remodel. Projects start or don’t finish, or in the worst case, unnecessary damage occurs that costs more to repair than the entire project. If you want to undertake a remodeling project, make sure you have the experience to do it the right way.
Enjoy your home. Whether you’re sprucing up your home to improve livability or to sell, make sure you have a space you love to live in.
