Jessica Paster The Future is Green
Home improvement is an exciting project but can be overwhelming for some, especially when they need help figuring out where to start. People generally begin home improvement projects to enhance their property value or address necessary repairs.
Whether it’s a minor upgrade or a full-scale renovation, it can be both time-consuming and costly. Therefore, it’s advisable to have a well-thought-out plan before starting a home renovation project.
To assist you with that, this article will discuss eight essential renovation tips recommended by expert renovators. So, without further delay, let’s get started!
#1: Set Your Budget
The first step before starting a renovation project is to determine your budget. Keep in mind that unexpected expenses are common in any home renovation project.
Thus, it’s wise to allocate a portion of your overall budget as a contingency fund to cover unforeseen costs. A good practice is to allocate at least 10-20% of your total budget, considering the project’s complexity and scale.
Additionally, it’s essential to obtain estimates for all related expenses in advance to ensure efficient budget allocation. For instance, if you plan to renovate your basement, search for the keyword best basement finishing company near me online.
Shortlist the most well-reviewed candidates and get their estimates. A little bit of research and legwork can go a long way (and help you save a lot of money, too). Make sure to discuss the project schedule before making a hiring decision.
#2: Assess Your Needs and Desires
We all desire a beautiful and functional home. Achieving this goal is feasible with careful planning. Therefore, another crucial renovation tip is to evaluate your needs versus your desires.
Priority should be given to repairing and improving essential components of your home, such as plumbing fixtures, which are vital for proper functionality.
On the other hand, there are optional improvements that you may wish to enhance the aesthetics or comfort of your living space, such as a modern kitchen island or landscaping. While it’s acceptable to include both needs and desires in your initial plans, ensure that your basic home needs are addressed as a top priority.
#3: Conduct Thorough Research
Typically, when planning a home renovation, you have a general idea of how you want to proceed. However, it’s crucial to conduct thorough research before starting the project, as you’ll be surprised by the numerous options available once you explore them.
For example, that vintage lamp you liked at a high-end store might be available at a much lower price elsewhere. Also, since you’re renovating your house on a budget, it’s essential to find the best options that align with your preferences, budget requirements, and long-term benefits while adding functionality to your home.
#4: Consider Temporary Relocation
Having your home in disarray with construction materials and noise can be frustrating and stressful. If you have a large home with multiple rooms, you should be fine, as you can relocate to other areas.
However, if you have a small house with only one bathroom and kitchen, it’s best to temporarily move elsewhere if you’re undertaking multiple renovation projects or a complete overhaul. This can help you avoid inconvenience and potential mishaps until your home renovations are complete.
#5: Keep Track of Renovation Progress
If you temporarily reside elsewhere during the home renovation, it’s essential to periodically check the renovation progress.
Even if you have excellent contractors and staff, staying in touch with them and monitoring the project’s progress ensures that it adheres to the pre-defined schedule and plan. This not only helps complete the project on time but also allows you to address any issues or changes you’d like before the project is finished.
#6: Do It Yourself (DIY)
While many renovation projects may require professional assistance, there are often several DIY tasks that you can handle on your own. These tasks can be completed relatively easily, saving you a significant amount of money.
For instance, you can consider small tasks like painting the walls, installing wallpaper, fixing cabinets, moving furniture, or cleaning up afterward. However, before attempting any DIY task, ensure that you have the appropriate tools and prioritize safety at all times.
#7: Paint and Lighting
Most homeowners underestimate the impact of paint on lighting. Therefore, when renovating your home, consider opting for neutral shades. Neutral paint not only helps you save money, especially if you’re on a budget, but it also appeals to potential homebuyers.
Moreover, it creates a sense of openness and spaciousness while giving your house a more sophisticated and modern appearance.
Similarly, ensure that you install proper and modern lighting in your house. Good lighting not only enhances the overall appeal of your house but can also lead to significant energy savings, particularly if you choose to use modern LED lighting.
A fresh coat of paint paired with good lighting is an excellent way to transform the overall look of your house on a limited budget, enhancing your house’s curb appeal.
#8: Buy Second-hand Items
Home renovations can be challenging, and sometimes, you may want to purchase specific items that aren’t readily available. However, don’t lose hope; you can search for second-hand items at estate sales and local auctions.
Typically, when large houses are auctioned, you can find quality items such as rugs, chandeliers, lamps, artwork, and furniture pieces.
You can have these items polished for a reasonable cost, and they will still be more affordable than buying new high-quality pieces. By acquiring second-hand items, you can save a significant amount of money that can be used for other home renovations.
Conclusion
Taking on a home improvement project can be a fulfilling and transformative experience for both your living space and your sense of accomplishment. By following these eight tips, you can navigate the intricate world of home improvement with confidence and creativity. Remember that each renovation is a unique journey, and patience and planning are key.
Whether you’re enhancing your home’s functionality, increasing its value, or simply refreshing its appearance, the art of home improvement allows you to shape your living environment to better suit your needs and preferences. So, get started, embrace the creative process, and watch your house become the dream home you’ve always imagined.