Homes can require a lot of upkeep. From painting to repairs, there always seems to be something that needs to be done, and these projects can quickly add up. The average U.S. household spent $8,305 on home renovations in 2020.
Since you will spend a good amount of time and money on your home, it only makes sense to plan your renovation well. The following steps can help you make the most of future home renovation projects.
Assess Your Needs and Wants
Some people have the budget to do a complete home renovation all at once. Others have to do it in phases, tackling one room or area of the house at a time. No matter how you plan on completing your renovation, the first step will always be the same: assessing your needs and wants.
Think about what you want to change and why. Is your goal to increase the value of your home before selling? Do you want to make some much-needed repairs? Or do you simply want to update your home’s style and feel? Once you know your goals, you can begin planning your renovation.
For example, if you want to increase the value of your home, you’ll want to focus on areas that potential buyers will be most interested in. The kitchen and bathrooms will always be at the top of the list, so these are usually good places to start. On the other hand, if you want to update the style of your home, you might focus on cosmetic changes like painting or new flooring.
Plan Your Renovation
After you’ve assessed your needs and wants, it’s time to start planning your renovation. This step will help you determine the scope of the project and start putting together a budget.
Start by creating a list of the changes you want to make. Once you have your list, you can begin researching the cost of each project. This will give you a good idea of how much money you’ll need to complete your renovation.
You should also start thinking about the timeline for your renovation. If you’re planning on doing the work yourself, you’ll need to factor in the time it will take to complete each task. If you’re hiring contractors, you’ll need to ensure they are available when needed. Don’t forget the amount of time the renovation can take and how you intend to live during the renovation.
Let’s say you’re planning on renovating your kitchen. You’ll need to consider the cost of materials, labor, and the amount of time it will take to complete the project. You should also think about how to use your kitchen during the renovation.
Will you be able to cook meals? Will you have to eat out? Answering these questions will help you plan your renovation and reduce the chances of failure.
Get Estimates Before Choosing Contractors
After planning the renovation, it’s time to start getting estimates from contractors. This step is crucial because it will help you determine the cost of your renovation and find the right contractor for the job.
Suppose you are no longer happy with your existing floors. Since you do not know anything about installing floors, you have decided to hire a professional. Ask for referrals from friends or family members who have had similar work done in their homes.
Find local companies that offer reliable flooring solutions and request a quote. Once you have received the estimate, compare it to your budget to see if it is feasible. You can try negotiating with the contractor if the price is too high.
You should also take the time to read reviews before hiring any contractor. This will help you understand their quality of work and customer service. Make sure to get at least three different estimates before making a decision. It helps to find a flooring company with insured floor technicians so that you are not held liable in case of any accidents.
Get the Necessary Permits
The last step before starting your renovation is to get the necessary permits. Not all renovation projects will require a permit. Depending on the scope of your project, you might need a permit from your city or county. Still, it’s always best to check with your local authorities before starting any work.
A major renovation involving structural changes to your home requires you to get a building permit. You might not need a permit if you’re simply changing the flooring or painting the walls.
In some cases, you might be able to get a permit online. However, in most cases, you’ll need to apply for a permit in person. Bring any relevant paperwork, such as your floor plan or blueprints.
You will also have to check with your homeowners’ association to see if there are any restrictions on home renovations. Some associations have guidelines you need to follow, so it’s best to be aware of them before starting your project.
You can be sure that your home renovation will be a success if you follow these rules. By taking the time to assess your needs and wants, plan your renovation, get estimates from contractors, and acquire the necessary permits, you can be sure that your home renovation will go smoothly.
