Trend Alert…Remodeling for Yourself
Having been in the home improvement business since 1979, we’ve worked with a wide array of homeowners who have made changes to their home, oftentimes to make it more palatable for the real estate market. While this reason for home improvement will surely continue, a noticeable trend that home improvement experts are identifying is the uptick of homeowners that are making upgrades to their home for…gulp…themselves! Here’s how to get this trend right so that the end result is something you love, while still providing a solid return on investment.
Getting the Best Return on Investment: In the realm of home improvement, it’s wise to strive for the highest return on investment possible because it makes a home more marketable and also allows the homeowner to feel good about the work being done because it’s adding value to the property. Siding and windows perform well in this category because they upgrade both the home’s curb appeal and energy efficiency. Decking is another wise investment because it provides supplemental outdoor entertainment space. Indoors, it’s hard to go wrong with a well-executed kitchen or bathroom that’s catered to the homeowner’s tastes. Remodeling magazine publishes a Cost vs. Value Report each year featuring home improvement averages based on actual data from around the country. It’s a great tool for empowering homeowners to make financially smart home improvement decisions.
Perks of Not Waiting Until You’re Ready to Sell to Remodel: Remodeling now, even if there isn’t a move in the immediate future affords homeowners the ability to live in a space that is utilized to its fullest potential. It’s also extremely rewarding to live in a home that’s a composition of your preferences. Wouldn’t it be nice to entertain for years to come in the space you custom designed rather than let someone else immediately enjoy the fruits of your labor? An advantage to partnering with a reputable contractor on a remodeling project is that they can suggest improvements that will add value in the event that you ever do want to sell, while still honoring your remodeling goals.
Homework You’ll Be Glad You Did: The biggest blunder a homeowner can make is rushing through the remodeling process. You don’t have to go with the first contractor you speak with; it’s perfectly acceptable to speak with more than one contractor to understand their approach, timelines and pricing. Take the time to understand and research the materials being used on your project and the warranty that accompanies them. Ask your contractor how they guarantee the product installation, in the event that you encounter issues with it after the work is completed. Take the time to research trends and evaluate your feelings towards them. It’s your home and it’s okay to be direct about your vision and budget. A reputable contractor appreciates those attributes.
Use These Tips to Get a Jump Start on Your Custom Home Renovation Project:
Take the Winter to Plan Your Project: In the Midwest, winter is a favorable time of year to start planning your spring home improvement projects because you have the ability to thoughtfully plan out designs and research the materials you’re interested in. Moving at a gradual pace gives you time to interview potential contractors, view photos of their past projects, read online reviews and speak to their past customers. That way, when spring commences, the installation process can promptly begin.