Remodeling your home can be an overwhelming and exciting process, but before you get carried away picking paint samples, fixtures, and new cabinets, there are some steps to take and things you should think about before even beginning this process.
Here are a couple of thoughts to have before you begin:
- Know your end goal.
Before you start you need to think about what you want your remodel to look like when it’s all said and done. Are you doing the renovation to up the resale value on your home or are you just giving your house a little makeover? Look at the other homes in your area to make sure you aren’t “overdoing it” for the area.
- Set a budget.
It is very easy to overspend when it comes to renovations. Remember to add in a contingency fund for any unexpected costs that usually occur during remodels as well as any incidental costs that could put you out during the renovation. Do your research and plan a budget before you start swinging a hammer.
- Consult your calendar.
If you are hoping to have your home done by a certain date or for an upcoming holiday, go to that date and work your way backwards. Be sure to squeeze in a few weeks for wiggle room just in case you can’t get a part in or something gets delayed.
- Pack up your belongings.
To make the renovation easier, declutter the area. If you are doing a whole home remodel, then it would be easiest to rent an offsite storage unit or onsite storage pod to place your belongings.
- Consider how your routine could be interrupted.
Work with the contractor for start and end times during the project. If you are doing it yourself then you can easily work around your routine. No one wants that awkward encounter while you are in your bathrobe.
- Don’t forget your pets.
A home remodel can be just as stressful on pets since it is their space being interrupted as well. It might be in their best interest if you board them or have a family or friend watch them while the work is being done.
- Schedule a cleanup.
After a long stressful day of renovating, it can be tempting to sit down and put your feet up, but not cleaning up can cause delays and lost tools along the way.
- Plan a renovation-free zone.
Before you get your remodel underway, plan out an area where your kids can still play inside the house and where you can have a space to eat and be together as a family.
- Plan ahead.
During the remodel, there might be an opportunity to enhance the room that you are doing renos in. This could be the perfect time to upgrade light fixtures, add extra lights, or new insulation in the walls.
- Check the weather.
If you are doing a summer or spring remodel, the weather might not fully cooperate with you. Check the short-term and long-term weather forecast for the weeks during your remodel. Consider the temperature during days that you might have to cut power.
If you are looking to upgrade the countertops in your home or add to your outdoor area, contact us at GMS Werks and we would love to help you upgrade your home!
