Smart Home Improvement Decisions During the Pandemic
We are all seeking ways to spend our time while staying at home during this COVID-19 crisis. Current conditions are delaying planned new home searches for some. But it could be a great time to make your home more inviting and perhaps increase its value by planning home improvement projects.
Following are a few tips for taking a smart approach toward enhancing your home for your enjoyment today and for potential profit if you decide to relocate when the time is right.
Smart Planning Makes for Smooth and Inexpensive Home Remodels
Here is a summary of sensible steps in preparing for your remodeling project. See this site for further details.
Visualize the Big Picture and Set Priorities
Gather the family to discuss the project. Set goals. Is your main intention to create more space, add features for comfort, or simply to improve the appearance?
Incorporate everyone's ideas, then compromise. Determine what is actually possible given your current home site and design. If the remodel will affect the exterior, will you change the look of the entire home or find materials that meld with current design features?
Determine a Budget
Be honest about the approximate amount of cash you can afford to spend. Allow for unexpected expenses.
Don't forget to consult your banker. If you have paid down principal on your home loan, there is a good chance that amount could be available as a home equity loan. It would be a wise decision to take advantage of the credit to invest in a remodel or addition that could increase your home's value.
Hire a Contractor as Soon as Possible
Involving a professional builder from the beginning saves time and money. A contractor can address your concerns about costs and feasibility of design concepts early on, thus making decisions easier.
Choose a contractor who regularly works on the type of projects your home redesign will entail. Hire a company with a good reputation. Here is a detailed checklist for selecting the best contractor for your particular project.
Make sure you obtain a firm contract that covers all of your concerns before the project begins. This prevents misunderstandings and potential disputes initiated by either the contractor or the client.
4 Ways to Make the Most of Your Money When Remodeling or Adding an Addition
Increase Efficiency Not Space
Adding cabinet and shelving details offers more storage without adding dimension to a room. Closet organizers can accomplish that goal also. The principle can apply to nearly every room. This approach saves time and cash.
2. Try to Avoid Major Layout Changes
When adding space to your home, try to avoid changing the home's basic design. A skilled contractor can guide you in the most efficient way to increase square footage without eliminating important structural features or spending unnecessary cash.
3. Utilize Space You Already Have
How about finishing a basement or attic instead of adding on? If it's an option, this approach could save the expense of preparing the site and framing a new addition. And then there's the potential time saved by avoiding the red tape of obtaining a building permit. Another option could be to construct a separate building if you are seeking extra space for an office or workshop.
4. Stick With the Original Plan
Making repeated changes to the plan put in place at the outset of the project will trigger additional labor and material costs. Ask for samples of all materials to be used in the project, then stay with your choice unless a serious issue arises.
At 2x4 Build based in Wilmington, North Carolina, we take a fresh, creative and holistic approach to designing your home improvement project. Serving the coastal North Carolina Area since 2013, our mission is to design and build with honesty, integrity and craftsmanship. Contact us for help in making smart home remodeling decisions that make staying at home more rewarding and increase the value of your house.
