What to Consider Before a Major Remodel
More often than not, clients that are planning to remodel their homes spend more time thinking of the big picture they’re trying to achieve, rather than focusing on smaller details, such as how well all of the changes will flow together. You really want to look at your home as a whole and consider what really needs work. Prioritizing is key, whether it’s focusing on your long term plans or making other renovations to accommodate the main project.
- Move or Improve? If you take a step back and realize that you’re putting more money into your remodel than you originally planned, you may want to consider if a remodel is worth it or if it would be smarter to just move. Typically, it costs less to improve your home rather than buying a new one. But if along the way you find more things in your house that need work, the costs are going to start to add up. You also want to take into consideration how long you plan on living in your home. If it’s temporary (5-10 years), it might be smarter to stay away from any big renovations that you could find in a new home.
- Plan for time. While discussing your remodel with your contractor, you’ll want to ask how long invasive construction is estimated to take, and if the house is livable during renovations.
- Make it specific to your family. Analyze the needs of your entire family while you plan your renovation. Do the kids need a play space for themselves? Does someone need a quiet room or office? Is there a need for more storage space? By asking yourself these questions, it expands your view on what you can do with your space that you may not have considered before. You can remodel any unused rooms, or expand smaller ones to accommodate to those living in your home.
- Talk to experts. It’s never a bad idea to get a professional’s input. They can give you tips, point you in the right direction, and tell you where to start. This leads to a more effective working and planning process, which will help you in the long run.
