Tips on Remodeling

Deciding to remodel a home can be stressful especially if plan on still living in the home during the construction process.  We have some tips to help you get through it.

1. Decide on what your goals and budget are for the renovation.  Do you need to a room for more space? Or want to knock down a wall to create a larger space or add more light to the room?  Do you want to remodel the kitchens or bathrooms?  Once you know what you want to do & why you want to do it, the next step is to know your budget.  Budget is very important because it will dictate exactly what you can afford to do or what you want to invest in the remodel.  Adding a safety net of 10-20% for unknown problems is also a must.  So if your budget is $25,000. add another $2500-$5000 for unexpected or hidden issues that come up.
2. Contact your town’s building department.  There are building codes and permits needed for most renovation projects.  Either with your ideas or if you have your plans ready, go to your town or city’s building department to see what type of permits and inspections you will need.  This will also inform you if your plans fit with national, state, or local building codes so changes can be made sooner than later.
3. Interview Contractors.  Decide if you want to hire a general contractor who will also charge a fee to oversee the whole project or if you are going to act as the general contractor and hire and oversee the whole project yourself.  Either way, plan on interviewing at least 3 different companies.  They all should be able to give you an estimate price.  Remodeling does come with surprises and that is why we recommend having a safety net budget too.  Their estimates should also include an approximate completion date.  Knowing if it will take 5 days or 3 weeks is important to know!
4. If living in the home during the renovations, do know that the rest of the house or parts of the house near the renovation area will be effected too.  Dust travels no matter what.  Take steps to cover what you can, remove valuables from the area, and cover your floors with cardboard sheets.  If remodeling the kitchen, make a “temporary camp” with a refrigerator, microwave, & toaster oven to be able to make simple meals at home.  Buy disposable utensils, cups, plates, & bowls to make cleaning up easier.  Planning ahead while living in your home during a remodel will help to lessen the stress.
5. Yes, it is stressful and remodeling will test your patience, your relationships, and your sanity at times but just keep remembering it is temporary and envision your completed renovation and the joy it will bring to you and your family.