Tips For Avoiding Common Home Remodel Headaches

Home remodeling is an investment of both time and money with the end goal generally being to create extra space, increase in property value, or to redesign a current room into more usable space. Before making an investment, the following tips should be considered.

Tips For Avoiding Common Home Remodel Headaches:

Once you set a budget, don't deviate from it. As the remodel process commences, numerous people will be working on your home. Each will have ideas that may seem like a good idea, but each new idea means additional spending. Homeowners can find themselves going thousands of dollars over budget before they realize what has happened. Consider as many options as you need to before you begin work, then stick to your plan.

Be prepared for the unexpected - even with new houses. Many people think because their house is new it's in perfect condition. What it usually means is no one has lived there long enough to discover any problems. Some problems may include termites in walls, needing to rewire a room, water damage or mold behind walls. While a budget is set for work, a buffer should be set aside for any unavoidable repairs or fixes that need to be made during the process. If an owner is not prepared, stress and tension can result as well as a slow-down in the process.

Don't ignore permits. While obtaining permits can be a lengthy, drawn-out process, they are necessary - not just for the city to know who is building what, but also to ensure homeowners safety. Some permits have to do with structural integrity, size and to keep property values high. A qualified general contractor can ensure you get the proper permits and make sure the entire process runs smoothly.

Don't follow trends. While silver may be the new black this year in design, or open cabinets instead of closed, trends don't last. In five to ten years your house may look completely out of date, devaluing your property when you decide to sell. Instead stay with a classic look that will stand the test of time.

Use quality materials. The old saying 'you get what you pay for' couldn't be truer when it comes to home building or remodeling. Cheap materials mean you'll most likely be replacing them in a few years. If you can't afford a remodel with quality materials, wait until you can. The result will last a lot longer.

Go green. Energy star appliances save money over time, but they also increase the resale value of your home. This is also true for green materials and energy efficient designs.

Keep your improvements in-line with your neighborhood. If you are the biggest house on the block, you won't get the same property value you would if you were in a neighborhood where larger houses were the norm. Property values are based on the average cost of a home in the area. Putting expensive finishing touches on a home in a neighborhood where houses are furnished minimally won't give you a return on your investment. Buyers are going to wonder why your home is so overpriced.

Be careful with DIY projects. Many people underestimate the expertise needed for a successful remodel. Projects get started or not finished, or in worse case scenarios unnecessary damage is done that costs more to fix than the entire project. If you want to undertake a remodel project make sure you have the expertise to do it the right way.
Enjoy your home. Whether you are fixing up your home for improved livability or to sell, make sure you have a space you like living in.


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