Home improvement projects can be time consuming, expensive, and stressful. The odds are good that you won’t finish your home remodel on time and even better that you won’t finish on budget. However, don’t despair. A well devised plan for your home improvement project is a good defense against any surprises that you might encounter along the way. I’ve recently completed a home remodel and have lived to tell about it. During the process, I’ve learned some important items to consider before beginning a home improvement project.
Budget the Cost
As with any major expenditure, the cost of a home improvement project should be budgeted beforehand. After careful research of costs involved, materials, labor, contracts, licenses, etc, determine what you can reasonably afford to spend on the home remodel. Once you establish a budget, stick with it. If granite countertops aren’t in the budget, don’t even allow yourself to browse through samples in the store or on the internet.
Enforce a Waiting Period
Everyone is entitled to change his or her mind from time to time. However, once a home improvement project has been completed, it may be hard or impossible to undo it. A few months ago, I was convinced that I wanted to take a partial wall down between my dining room and my formal living room. But, after contemplating the decision for a while, I decided that the existing sight views between the two rooms were enough for me. When considering an expensive or irreversible project, I recommend enforcing a waiting period. Think about the project for several days or even a few months before making a final decision.
Consider Everyone’s Feelings
Sometimes, family members have their own personal tastes and unique needs regarding a home improvement project. For example, you may want carpet in most of the house, but your significant other has allergies and needs a hard floor. Or, you’re firm on painting your ten year old son’s room blue, but he prefers tan. Different viewpoints can stall a remodeling project and cause strain on family relationships. Before making final decisions, make sure to consider everyone’s feelings and try to compromise on areas of disagreement.
Think About Functionality
Don’t forget about functionality when purchasing items for your home improvement project. You may prefer hard-wood flooring, but have three big dogs and two small kids in your house. In this case, laminate might be a better choice for your current needs. While you want your new home improvements to look great in your space, they need to function with your lifestyle. Before purchasing items, ask an expert what sort of maintenance is involved and talk with other people who have the same type of product.
Do Your Research
Doing a little research before beginning a home remodel could save you some money and future anxiety and heartache. For example, if you’re in the market for a new refrigerator, you should at least check out consumer reports to see what other consumers have to say about the models you’re interested in. Are you going to hire a contractor? If so, you want to make sure that he or she is experienced, reliable, and reputable. Gathering this information about prospective contractors is easier than ever before with sites like Angie’s List and Home Advisor abounding on the web.
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