Nothing can be quite as exciting, and stressful as a home remodel. Remodeling gives us the chance to create dream and create the ideal living space for your family. Unfortunately it can also be the source of anxiety, and unnecessary expense. Before you begin your next remodel, consider these 5 important tips that can help you avoid some of the most common mistakes we have seen in the remodeling industry.
#1 Research Your Contractor
You are going to get to know your contractor very, very well. Your project might last weeks, or even months, so having a good understanding of your contractor’s work history is very important. Take a look here, to see if her license is up to date, and if she has had any complaints filed against her. Insist on a few references, and follow through on making the calls. No one is perfect, but many red flags can present themselves with just a little bit of research, saving you massive headaches down the road.
#2 Use a Designer or Architect
You may have some great ideas for your remodel, but you may have overlooked some key elements that a professional would be able to point out. Perhaps you want to move a wall, or add additional square footage to the house. A designer could help you get the most benefit from your new space, and an engineer could tell you if any of your walls are bearing weight, and provide the most cost effective solutions. You might think you are saving a lot of money designing your new space yourself, but most of the time it pays huge dividends to have design professionals involved from the get go.
#3 Focus on Quality of Life Improvements
Our homes are out sanctuaries, and we want to enjoy the comfort and security they bring us. So when remodeling, ask yourself what new element or change you would enjoy the most. Is a gourmet kitchen your dream come true? Then focus on that. Is a spa-like bathroom what you have in mind? Then spend your money there. Don’t try to spread your budget across too many areas of the home. Focus on what excites you and leave the rest for later.
#4 Do Your Own Shopping
Living in the internet age comes with many benefits. One being you can price check everything that needs to be purchased for the remodel. Ask your contractor for a list of items that will be necessary for your project and do some shopping. You would be shocked to see the range of prices for the same product. Check several different vendors for the items you are looking for, and chances are you will save money.
#5 Insist on Permits
Waiting for permits to be approved is no fun. But it’s very important. Did you know that if you add square footage to your house without a permit, it can’t be counted as official square footage in the county or city’s records? When you go to sell your home, you can’t list the addition as part of the size of the home. In addition, inspections can be very valuable. Even the greatest contractor in the world can sometimes overlook items that an inspector might catch. So bite the bullet and make sure all applicable permitting has been acquired for your project.
A home remodel project can be very exciting! These tips can help insure a timely, successful project, and be something that you and your family will enjoy for years to come.