Maybe you just closed on a new property, are preparing to sell your home, or received some inspiration from HGTV or a Pinterest board. No matter the reasoning, you’re ready to work some remodeling magic. With the proper planning and preparation in place, these visions can be turned into realities. But with so much to consider, where is the best place to begin? Whether your project is small or large, here are some starting points to kick-start your journey to a seamless renovation:
Establish the Goals for Your SpaceEach room in the home has a unique purpose. From bathrooms and laundry rooms to basements and kitchens, bringing your visions to life starts with understanding what you’d like to change. For remodeling multiple spaces, begin writing separate lists for each one. This helps to keep track of what you are looking to achieve in an organized fashion. In doing so, you’re not only envisioning the end product(s), but also the necessary steps it will take to get there. All things combined, having a holistic overview of each space can also aid in determining your budgetary needs. Knowing the cost of the remodel and comparing it to what you can currently afford will bring to light any adjustments that need to be made.
Determine DIY CapabilitiesWith an uptick in do-it-yourself (DIY) projects, platforms, and shows, the drive to spearhead one’s own remodel or renovation is becoming a trend for many homeowners. When inspiration strikes, it’s important to gauge what is personally possible and what requires professional help. Though hiring an outside source or contractor may seem like the more expensive route, oftentimes homeowners are unaware of the true costs of DIY renovations in terms of time, materials, and upkeep or maintenance. In fact, a report from
Houzz shows that 46% of homeowners outspend their initial budget due to some of these reasons. For projects that require any plumbing or electrical work, most require permits that either need to be signed by professionals or have them complete the task entirely. As a rule of thumb, any project that could potentially harm or injure you should be left to professionals.
Choose a Trusted ContractorFor remodeling tasks that you’ve chosen to hire a contractor for, take the time to review his or her capabilities, reviews, pricing, and areas of expertise. Your time investment on prior research can ultimately affect the outcome of your project. Making an informed decision is best when it comes to transforming your living spaces. If you need to hire more than one contractor for your projects, the same rules apply. Many contracting companies today will come out and provide free or cost-effective estimates of your home prior to beginning work. This can be beneficial for you to get a feel for their professionalism and skill sets along with giving them an idea of the task(s) they will need to perform.
Document the DetailsCombined with the lists you have written for each space, it’s important to note both small and large details. This is crucial for tracking purposes when it comes to labor costs and purchased materials. Take pictures of progress and note the amount of time spent on each part of your renovations in case any
issues arise with a contractor. Using pictures also helps to give an accurate depiction of what you are trying to accomplish, whether on your own or through an outside team. The best way to get exactly what you want it by explicitly documenting or stating it. Making note of these things helps in the short-term to avoid mistakes, and it can also alleviate any issues down the road with quote, installation, or maintenance concerns.
All home renovations begin with a vision of what you want to achieve and why you want to achieve it. From there, your planning, organization, and project management will be key tools in bringing it to life. Following the above best practices will ensure things go smoothly, and having dedicated professionals and quality products on your side will further complement your projects. For any window, door, or skylight needs on your journey to a new space,
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Sources:
https://www.bhg.com/home-improvement/advice/expert-advice/remodeling-design/https://realestate.usnews.com/real-estate/articles/the-guide-to-home-renovationshttps://www.todayshomeowner.com/avoiding-contractor-scams/https://www.forbes.com/sites/houzz/2016/05/27/a-beginners-guide-to-managing-a-remodel/#13840a8d4ae2
