Home renovations can be a thrilling odyssey or the bane of your existence, depending on how you approach them. With fancy upgrades and stylish trims to choose from, it’s easy for anyone looking at home revamps to dive straight into things without planning. But novice renovators should take heed. Common pitfalls exist everywhere. This is especially the case when you try something ambitious, like redoing your kitchen or bathrooms. Wrong materials and hidden costs are two dreadful examples of traps you may encounter throughout the project. These could leave you seething with regret in no time if mishandled.
So, here are a few things to do and keep in mind when remodeling your home.
Work Out Your Budget:
Ready to take on a project? Before you break ground, keep in mind that budgeting is vital! Research to get an idea of material costs. Just remember: sometimes going with the cheapest option isn’t always the best. You must also add a 10-30% buffer for any surprises.
Homeowners have more freedom than renters when making improvements, so their budget is usually higher. Grande Prairie, Canada, stands as a testament to the power of homeownership, with 66% of its population owning their own homes. It allows them to take full advantage of their inalienable rights over their residences without worrying about losing their security deposit.
Get Your Furniture Out of the Way:
This one is a must! You could find your expensive sofa covered in sawdust without proper furniture storage. Before any work begins, pack away fragile items and get rid of anything in the way.
If you’re a resident of Grande Prairie, look for nearby facilities to store your furniture. It’ll help you visit your furniture anytime to check on it or make changes.
Consider going online and searching for “Grande Prairie AB storage units“ for state-of-the-art security, various sizes, and a convenient location.
Remember Why You’re Renovating:
People often take on remodeling projects without thoroughly assessing the reasons behind them. Are you renovating for comfort or aesthetics? Are you trying to increase the value of your home, or do you just want to make it safer? Ask yourself why you want to do this job, and let that guide your decisions.
The “why” in your remodeling project will determine the “what” of it. For instance, if you’re replacing kitchen counters, your “what” would be the appropriate material for that job. Is it granite? Quartz? Marble? Limestone? Granite and quartz might be the best options if you’re renovating to add more life to your countertops.
On the other hand, if you’re looking for something with a classic look that needs less upkeep, marble and limestone are great choices.
Choosing the Right Contractor:
Finding a qualified professional to help you with your home remodel is critical to success. They’ll help you choose suitable material, navigate the permits and inspections, and the many other details that come with the job.
Word-of-mouth recommendations are usually best, but if you’re still struggling to find someone, look for credentials like certifications and affiliations. You must also ensure they have insurance and are familiar with local building codes.
But most importantly: look for someone who communicates well and is easy to work with. If you find the right contractor, the rest of your project will go smoothly.
Increasing Property Value:
No matter what changes you make, a remodel can add to your property value. A new roof, for instance, can get you 60-68% of your investment back. An upgraded entry door can fetch 90.7% of your investment, while major kitchen remodels can get you up to 91%.
If you want to add a bit more pizzazz, consider installing energy-efficient appliances or smart home technology.
On the other hand, specific changes shouldn’t be made. For instance, bathroom additions and pool installations may not increase a home’s value as much as you’d expect.
Even if you’re not planning on putting your home on the market soon, it’s always good to keep an eye on what changes are most likely to increase your property value.
Maximize Existing Space:
Whether you’re remodeling your kitchen, bathroom, or even the entire house, it’s essential to make the most of what you have. It doesn’t mean you need to cram everything into a small space; it just means that you should consider how to use every inch of the area.
If you’re considering a bathroom renovation, design the layout to maximize comfort and accessibility. Vertical storage units, built-in shelves, and double vanity sinks can all come in handy.
Swapping your current furniture for more multi-functional pieces can also help you save space. From foldable tables to custom cabinets and floating shelves, there are plenty of options for clever storage solutions.
The Timeframe:
A lack of a timeline can thwart even the most ambitious projects with unlimited budgets. That’s why it is crucial to map out realistic timelines for each stage. For instance, an entire kitchen extension will take more time than simply giving your walls a fresh coat of paint.
Moreover, don’t forget about any possible surprises that may arise, such as necessary supplies or inspections. These will stretch your timeline, so ensure you have an emergency contingency plan.
Having a timeline will also help you make the required arrangements. Maybe you’ll have to rent an apartment during the project or hire someone to watch your kids while you’re away.
The Layout Functionality:
When remodeling, it is vital to consider the functionality of your home. How will you move in and out of the area? Will there be enough room for traffic?
For instance, you should decide on the best workflow for a kitchen remodel. What appliances and equipment do you plan on using? Where will you place the fridge and countertops? How much seating do you need for guests?
Similarly, for your living room, consider the furniture layout. Where will you place the couch, and on which wall should your TV be mounted? How much natural light do you need?
These are all critical questions to ask yourself when planning the design. Being prepared and having a clear vision of the new layout will save you from headaches.
Final Thoughts:
Home remodeling projects bring bragging rights and joy when done correctly. But don’t forget that it also comes with a certain amount of stress and responsibility.
While it is important to be mindful of the potential return on investment, don’t forget to make the space your own and have some fun with it.
Good luck on your remodeling journey, and may you have the perfect home to host your future gatherings.
