Whether you’re a new homeowner or an investor, remodeling has likely crossed your mind. A remodel can transform a simple house into an amazing home, but it can be daunting and stressful. It involves a lot of planning and considering several factors. Check out these four tips to make your remodeling project a little bit easier on your mind and wallet:
1. Determine Which Parts You Want To Change
Have a clear idea of what you want your house in Denver or Salt Lake City to look like. Do you want a sealed asphalt driveway or a minimalist kitchen? Or are you dreaming of a clawfoot tub to replace your walk-in shower? A clear goal makes the rest of the remodeling process easier and faster. Doing so will also help determine how much money you’ll need. After all, it’s better to save money until you have enough to do the remodel rather than resort to financing.
2. Plan How You’ll Manage
If you’re remodeling a kitchen, you should know how you’ll live for three to five months without one. You can deal by making frequent runs to the grocery store and buying food that can last on the shelf at room temperature. Look up various sandwiches and salad recipes. Give yourself a break from time to time and get takeout from your favorite restaurant. You should also consider that delays are possible, and you may have to use your temporary kitchen for a little more time.
3. Hire the Right Contractor for You
While you may be looking to save money by taking the lowest bidder, it may end up costing you in the long run. Consider all factors when signing a contractor, not just money. Check out their credentials, ask for recommendations from your friends and family, and take a look at their finished works.
Once you’ve found your contractor, have everything written out on your contract. This is to ensure that all the roles and responsibilities are clear from the beginning. It’s also advisable that you take a hands-on approach to the project and check the progress every day.
4. Pack Like Marie Kondo
You can help the project move along faster by tucking away your things. If you’ve already cleaned and packed your belongings, the workers can immediately start. Packing ahead can also save you the trouble of cleaning after the project is done. Construction work equates to sawdust, broken glass, and stray nails. You don’t want it getting on your books, vases, and photos. You can follow the KonMari method. Make sure to identify the things you want to keep and let others go. You’ll free your house of stuff you no longer use or need and organize the rest of your belongings in the process.
Remodeling a house can take a lot of time, money, and effort. You can ensure that all the trouble is worth it by planning ahead of time. Know what you want to happen, research how you can execute it, and go for it.
