Thinking about embarking upon a home remodeling project can be so exciting! Whether it's turning an unfinished basement into a home movie theater, transforming an outdated bathroom, or renovating a kitchen, home remodeling can add extra comfort and usability to your living space.
But remember, remodeling projects can often go awry or way over budget, so before you start, be sure to consider these five factors. Understanding these now can save you time, money, and stress later on.
1. Will Your Home Remodeling Project Be a Sound Investment?
There's no doubt that remodeling projects often add a touch of beauty and glamour to your home, but even the smallest of projects could have a large price tag. Will the cost of what you'd like to have fit within your current budget? It'll be hard to enjoy the new space if you're worried about paying off your loan or credit card bills. Also, consider your home's current value and the value of the homes in your neighborhood. If you're remodeling because you'd like to put your home up for sale soon, this information will be helpful since you may not want to spend money on a remodeling project if it doesn't increase the property's value.
2. Consider the Timing and Space
Before moving forward with a home remodeling project, you need to make sure you have sufficient space for what you'd like to accomplish. For example, if you want to transform your basement into an in-law’s apartment, you first need to make sure there is ample space for a family member to live comfortably.
Timing your remodeling project is also an important factor. Depending on where you live and the nature of the project, some work may depend on the weather and the season. Outdoor projects such as building a deck or a garage may need to be done during a warm and dry time of the year.
3. Set a Realistic Timeline
Be sure to allocate ample time for every step of your remodeling project. The fact is that for nearly every large-scale project, you will likely come up against at least one unexpected delay. Delay-causing events can range from discovering unknown structural problems with your house to delays in shipping for appliances to unpredictable, lousy weather.
Some time may also need to be spent moving displaced furniture or belongings. Dealing with these problems is made easier with the use of units at a long and short-term storage facility (depending on the duration of your work). Rather than cluttering up other rooms for weeks or months, moving those items into a climate and access-controlled space can make life easier for everyone in your home.
4. Understand the Work that Happens Before the Remodeling Process
Before the contractors and remodeling professionals (if you’re outsourcing labor) start to work, you'll need to make sure the space being remodeled is ready for them. As you’re packing up belongings and small items, use the time to declutter and get rid of things you haven't thought about or used in years. Donate items that are in good condition to a local charity for those in need. Items that can't be donated can be recycled or put out with the trash.
You'll also want to do some research and understand what types of building permits and inspections your city or town requires. Laws differ from one municipality to the next, but typically, more extensive projects such as building an addition, garage, or installing a new HVAC system will require a permit. Smaller remodeling jobs such as painting interior rooms, or changing fixtures and appliances do not. Your local permit office will be able to tell you what is required.
5. Take the Time to Contract Reputable Remodeling Experts and Quality Building Suppliers
Nothing can ruin remodeling plans faster than fly-by-night contractors or poor-quality building supplies. Take the time to ask friends and co-workers for references for reputable remodeling experts in your local area. Interview several different companies before making a decision. Evaluate each on qualities such as the satisfaction of previous customers, how they will communicate with you, and the clarity of their explanations. Look at photos of remodeling projects that have been completed in the past to identify their level of craftsmanship and get their feedback on your budget for the project. You want to make sure you have 100% trust and confidence in the team you hire.
When it comes to your project's building supplies, fixtures, and appliances, you also want to invest in the best quality that your budget will allow for. Ensure you or your contractor source all materials from vendors that sell products meeting the highest quality standards. Also, be aware of your state's warranty regulations for all purchased goods. These laws vary, but they'll offer you a certain degree of protection in the event something malfunctions or breaks through no fault of your own.
Finally, if your remodeling project is substantial and will involve multiple contractors, workers, and interior designers coming to your home, you may want to consider purchasing and installing a key lockbox or "smart" door hardware. This way, you don't have to wait at home to let every person in and out of your house whenever they come by to work.
Starting a home remodeling project can be a fantastic way to freshen up a tired or outdated living space. When you take the time to plan your project, you'll be prepared for every step of the process. In no time at all, you'll be enjoying your new space – and thinking about the next project you want to tackle.
About the Author: Carolyn Mitchell is a freelance writer and content strategist with a passion for home décor and maintenance. She can often be found re-painting and updating the furnishings in her home, and she is also a dedicated cat mom to two adorable kitties.
