When you’re preparing for a remodeling project in your home, you will be faced with many questions, concerns and thoughts about how the project should play out. There are many do’s and don’ts about tackling such projects:
1. Don’t neglect the upkeep of your home
Too often when a homeowner is focused on a major remodeling project in their home, they forget about the fundamentals like basic maintenance, which can result in major issues for your home later on. Don’t lose sight of the basics with respect to your home, even when undergoing a major renovation project. As the old saying goes in football, it’s great to run “special teams” plays but if it comes at the cost of basic blocking and tackling, then you’re never going to win the game.
2. Do maintain and keep your home up to date
Maintaining your home will not only help bring comfort and a sense of pride of ownership to your home, but enhance its overall value, while will help cut down on costs in the long run. A little bit of maintenance here and there goes a long way. If your car gets an annual checkup shouldn’t your largest single investment, your home, be taken care of as well?
3. Don’t become frustrated during a remodel
Frustration may lead to costly mistakes, such as, skipping corners, rash decisions, and unwanted items in your home. The impact from one remodeling project can lead to further unneeded work in the future.
4. Do be prepared
Be prepared to understand that during your remodeling project that things may change, that challenges are likely to occur and that time is money. Be ready to make smart decisions and understand things may not always go according to plan. You may find that in older homes and with previous DIY projects, items not follow proper code.
Having a plan of action will efficiently allow you to make a decision. While preparing one shall consider the resale value that the remodel may have on your home. Understand what you are trying to achieve in the remodel. Will you be staying in your Home for 5, 10 for 15 years? Having an idea on when you may move to your next home should play a significant role in on your decision.
5. Don’t try a DIY remodeling a project that you are not qualified to do
DIY projects can be cost-effective and self-rewarding. However, trying to accomplish a kitchen remodel with no carpentry skills just doesn’t make sense. There is a reason why we watch football from the couch and let the professionals play the game on the field.
6. Do hire a professional who is licensed, insured, and qualified
Getting the job done right the first time will save you time and money. Listen to what the contractor suggests and has to say. His or her experience is valuable and should be taken into full consideration.
7. Don’t hire a contractor because they have the cheapest price
We are often compelled to save money, and save it immediately! There is a reason one contractor charges $20 per hour and another charges $50 per hour. Be sure to determine why there is a discrepancy in prices and what that means to you.
An important factor to consider is that the true cost of a remodeling project is the value of what you are paying for. Typically lower prices are associated as a potentially negative trade-off for lesser quality materials, workmanship or warranty. Also understand that a warranty is only as good as the company that stands behind it.
8. Do investigate and research the remodeler’s experience, qualifications and customer reviews
All this background information should be easily accessible from their website or office building. Understanding your contractor’s qualifications may give you a better understanding when comparing prices. Determine if Contractor A has an office, multiple carpenters, and solid business history or if Contractor B simply has a pickup with several tools. Both contractors may be equally qualified and do excellent work, but having peace of mind that Contractor A has an office, employees, and great business history may provide a higher value to you.