5 THINGS TO CONSIDER BEFORE YOUR RENOVATION
If you’re a fan of TV home renovation shows, you know that remodeling a home can be a major undertaking. However, renovation is also the ideal way to ensure that your new home is exactly what you want. If you’ve found that not-quite-perfect home, consider the following five factors before making the final decision to take on a large-scale renovation:
1. Determine What You Want
It’s essential to know what you want before you begin the renovation process. That includes determining your absolute must-haves along with the overall end goal. Be specific. If the renovation includes new flooring, determine whether you want hardwood, carpeting or tile. Does the master bathroom need a double sink vanity and a soaker tub? Knowing precisely what the renovation should include allows you to plan other essential aspects, including creating a timeline, obtaining necessary permits and ordering supplies.
2. Set a Realistic Budget (and Stick to It)
It’s difficult to imagine a worse scenario than a renovation that is halted midway due to lack of funds. Setting a realistic budget and sticking to it is essential. This is the only way to ensure that you’ll actually be able to complete the renovation that you’ve started.
3. Choose the Right Contractor
The best renovation plans can be thrown completely into chaos by choosing the wrong contractor. Before you sign an agreement with a contractor, sit down and talk with him or her about your goals and project. Determine whether the contractor considers it feasible to complete what you want with your budget. Ask about previous work and check references. If the contractor balks on any of these items, run—do not walk—in the opposite direction.
4. Don’t Be Afraid to Ask Questions
Depending on the scope of the renovation project, your household routine could be disrupted for weeks, even months. Asking your contractor about the details of the renovation can determine whether you can live through the process or if renting a hotel room (or bunking with friends or relatives) is called for. You’ll also want to determine whether the design plans will actually meet your needs.
5. Be a Hands-On Client
It’s true that the contractor is the professional and he or she is paid to do the job. You don’t want to get in the way. However, it is your house and your money. It’s your right (and your obligation) to stay involved throughout the project to determine if there are problems with the budget or if the schedule is still on track. Reputable contractors will welcome your input to ensure that the results will meet your needs and expectations.
