You’re ready to renovate your home, but you’re not sure where to start. You’re not alone. Many homeowners will dive into the renovation process without knowing what to expect.
Once they incur a few renovation mishaps, they regret not starting with a plan. Home renovations are unlike building a new house and starting with a clean slate. It’s essential to sustain preparation for complex issues and unforeseen expenses.
So before you go down a rabbit hole of renovations, here are a few things you’ll need to know when remodeling your home.
Be Prepared to Go Over Budget
When it comes to budgeting, many homeowners underestimate the costs associated with updates. In fact, 22% of homeowners spend an average of between $5,000 and $15,000 on projects. You might discover that renovating a small kitchen in your area costs upwards of $20,000. Only you’ll end up having to take a second loan because of some unexpected repairs.
To stick as closely to your budget as possible, start by getting quotes from local contractors. Asking for a documented estimate before the work begins is essential. This way, your demo crew doesn’t ask for more money on the first day of renovations.
Furthermore, you should factor in the pricing of temporary housing. During a renovation, you might find you and your entire family moving into a friend or family member’s home.
Sometimes moving into someone else’s home is critical for saving on living expenses. However, your living expectations may require further accommodations when living as a guest in someone else’s house. Therefore, pricing out an Airbnb rental can help you budget more thoroughly when necessary to move.
Hire the Right Crew
Consider hiring a general contractor instead of individual installers when you’re ready to hire professionals. For instance, say you’re parceling out projects to professionals affiliated with big-box stores where you buy your supplies. These types of contractors can run into an issue they can’t solve. So if you have a tile installer discover that the floor isn’t level, they might not know how to fix it.
A general contractor will know how to troubleshoot accordingly with other tradespeople. So the carpenter can level the floor out while the tile installer finishes the rest of the job.
To avoid decision fatigue, hire a designer to help you take the pressure off. Making small design choices can weigh you down. So if interior design isn’t your forté, get the help you need and request to be presented with a few options.
Figure out who is the best contractor for the job, even if it delays the start of your project. When hiring a design and build firm, scheduling conflicts can occur and push the home renovation back by months. So when you find a contractor you like, save the hassle and lock them into your schedule.
If you require specialty materials, keep in mind that you’ll need a specialty installer. For instance, a tile with a unique pattern may come with specific installation instructions. Ensure your contractor knows how to work with specialty items so you can avoid imperfections after the installation.
Buy Supplies That Fit Your Wallet and Style
Prevent decision overload and stick within your budget by limiting your shopping locations. If you like a particular brand, stick to buying your supplies from them. Additionally, having a tight budget can help your decision-making process. You can look at this positively because it helps to limit your choices as well.
Consider shopping in-store instead of online. Avoid relying on the images you see online because the feel or look of the material might not be what you expect.
For instance, you might end up ordering the wrong type of gravel because the image enhanced the look and size of the material. As a result, the size of that gravel may be smaller than expected and not at all what you like.
Make the Most of Your Space
A 3D mockup can show you exactly how your area will work when it comes to your space. It helps to visualize what the room will look like thoroughly. While it’s exciting to look at a room from a sketch, a 3D mockup will help you understand what to expect.
Avoid being too kid-friendly with your space. Keep in mind that your kids will outgrow practically everything more quickly than you think. The costs of your home renovations become an important factor in decision-making. So instead of spending $500 on a low-level bathroom sink, consider buying the $20 step stool instead.
Rethink the typical look when it comes to doors. Your favorite part of a bedroom redo could be the dramatic effect of closet doors. Rather than a standard door, a floor-to-ceiling result can have more aesthetic appeal and give you easier access, too.
Have Fun With Your Home Renovation
Although stressful situations can come with a home renovation, patience is essential. Instead of stressing about design choices, take as much time as you need. You’ll want to make the process as enjoyable as possible.
Imagine what your home will look like once it’s finished. It’ll help you remain passionate throughout the entire renovation process.