The Process of Successfully Remodeling Your Home

Remodeling a home can be a daunting task, but it is well worth it if you carefully plan ahead. Here are some guidelines to follow so you won’t regret the end results of your next remodeling project.

1. Determine Why You Want To Remodel

It is important to ask yourself questions such as these before preparing your actual renovation plans:

• Will the remodel be a for a temporary need or a permanent investment in my lifestyle?
• How long do I plan to live in my current home?
• What is the motivation behind the renovation?
• What will be my income in the upcoming years?
• What is my threshold for chaos in my living arrangements during a remodeling project?

If you are considering remodeling for investment purposes, remember that it is very unlikely that you will get the exact amount of money back that you invested. Renovations such as updated master bedrooms, adding additional bedrooms and the installation of better doors and windows will maximize your home’s resell value, and any interior changes that will reduce utility bills will also impress a potential home buyer.

2. Calculate The Costs

Making a ballpark figure is the first step in calculating your remodeling costs. Next, figure out how much you have to spend. This includes how much you can get approved for a loan, if this is an option. After determining your exact cost for your remodeling needs, get quotes from at least three contractors.

3. Get The Paperwork In Order

Get homeowner’s insurance to protect everyone working on your remodeling project. Make sure that all bids and pay schedules are in writing to prevent miscommunication during the project. Create a work contract with the contractors that detail payment schedules, a summary of the project and deadlines. Remodeling that affects the overall structure of the home or will alter your utility usage requires work permits, while interior projects such as replacing flooring typically do not.

4. Make The Plans

Once you get the financial details and permits out of the way, you can get to the fun part. Utilize design software, home design magazines and sites such as Pinterest to get the ball rolling. Consult family and friends who have remodeled for recommendations on how to accomplish certain tasks in the most efficient matter and take their advice from any mishaps they may have stumbled onto during their experience. Remember that you may have to adjust your plans according to the materials and appliances available, and the construction of your home may make some alterations very difficult or even impossible.

5. Establish The Building Schedule

The typical processes for the building procedure are as follows:

Bedroom Addition
After your contractor and planner pinpoint any potential foundation and structural issues, the contractor will build an outside room and finalize all electrical work then open the wall between the home and the new room. This typically takes 2 to 3 months.

Kitchen Remodel
Kitchen remodeling entails the replacing of the cabinets, appliances and counters. This may also include improving the electrical wiring, adjusting ductwork and updating old plumbing. This typically takes 2 to 3 months.

Bathroom Remodel
Plumbing is the focus with bathroom remodeling, and issues with the floor may take extra care. Prior electrical and vent work typically does not need much alteration. Remodeling a bathroom typically takes 1 to 2 months.

6. Expect the Unexpected

Add 15% to 20% to the best quote for the inevitable overrun and determine if you are still able to afford a remodel that you will be satisfied with. If you are unable to afford the cost, try to cut it down by reducing the size of the project, using low-cost alternatives, buying the new appliances and materials yourself and keeping the items in your home that still work. Establish rules for contractors and establish a project point person to handle any difficulties that may arise.

7.Finalize Your Remodel

Check the contractor’s work consistently throughout the remodel, and take notes in a journal to be sure that all concerns are addressed. Your contract should state that you will only make the last payment after all work is satisfactory, and your final walk-through should involve an inspection of such things as window and door placements and smaller details like the alignment of trim.