Home renovation is not an easy project and it is for this reason that you will need to plan effectively. You want to think about how long you will be in the home because it affects how you renovate. If you plan to be in the home for more than ten years, then it would be wise to choose projects that will add lasting value to the home. For example, if you have a growing family, you might decide to add one or two rooms. Or if you intend to sell your home within a few years, you should consider renovations that maximize your chances of selling.
Here are eight additional tips to consider before a renovation.
1. Consider Family Dynamics
This is something to reflect on when you renovate your home. Maybe your spouse now works from home and will need a home office upstairs where he isn’t distracted by the noise from the kids. If your parents recently got sick and will need long term care, your renovation might include fixtures that make it safe for them to move around the house.
2. Think About Your Affordability
In an ideal situation it would be nice to renovate without thinking about the costs. However, in reality it is best to consider your budget before doing renovations. Write a list of the most important projects for the home and research how much those projects will cost altogether. Factor in the supplies, the prices for contractors, and any unexpected expenses. Another idea would be to start saving at least a year before you start the renovations to make the budget efficient.
3. Figure Out What You Can Do Yourself
While the more complicated tasks should be left to professionals, there are some projects that you can do with the help of your spouse and other skilled loved ones. These tasks include painting the walls, upgrading cabinet hardware, applying new stain to the flooring, caulking holes in walls, or installing new cabinets in certain rooms. It is good for the budget, and it gives you a sense of gratification.
4. Don’t Underestimate the Time Needed for Renovations
You may think that it will only take a few weeks to complete certain home projects but this may not always be the case. You don’t want to underestimate the average time it takes to do certain tasks because emergencies occur. If necessary, take off a few days of work before the renovation begins so that you can plan your projects.
5. Stay Legal
Many cities have building codes and permits that affect your ability to renovate the home. You should research your city’s building codes and related laws so that you won’t have to pay huge fines or redo certain projects in order to stay within your city’s guidelines.
6. Dream Big
Don’t let your budget, or city restrictions keep you from dreaming big about the renovation. Get ideas from your favorite interior design magazines and see if you can create a budget-friendly version of it. Get insight from professional designers and tell them the vision you have in mind for the renovation. With research and careful planning, you can have your dream home.
7. Consider Alternative Living Arrangements During Renovation
Before you begin renovations, it would be a good idea to decide where you will stay temporarily while the projects are being completed. You can stay in a hotel or live with relatives in the area. Just be sure to have an idea of how long you will stay with them and be courteous while staying with your relatives.
8. Don’t Rush the Renovation
This is essential for everyone’s safety. Make sure your contractors adhere to safety guidelines when operating certain types of equipment. If you and your spouse are doing the projects, look over the steps carefully for each project. Make sure you purchase the right supplies and measure spaces properly. This ensures that your renovation looks great, and it keeps you from having to correct mistakes.
In conclusion, a home renovation serves a variety of purposes. These include increasing the home’s value, making room for additional family members, or making the home more functional. When you use the above mentioned steps, your home becomes a satisfying oasis for the whole family.