Why You Need a Solid Plan Before Tackling a Remodel
There are plenty of reasons to consider remodeling your home. You might want to make changes that spruce it up so you can sell. Maybe your remodeling efforts are to turn your home into something that fits your needs and personality. Or, maybe you’ve just been watching one too many home makeover shows.
Whatever the case, remodeling is exciting, and it should be a fun and fulfilling experience. But, there are things you need to consider before tackling such a big project.
Having a solid plan in place before you start remodeling is a crucial step. It will help the entire process go smoother, cause less stress, and will ensure that whatever you have envisioned for your remodel will come to life on a timely schedule.
If you’re not sure where to get started with a remodeling plan, that’s okay! Let’s cover several important bases that your plan should include, and why they’re important.
Your Budget Can Make or Break a Project
The first thing you should focus on is your budget. The average home remodel costs anywhere from $20-$200 per square foot, depending on whether you’re DIYing or hiring someone, the materials you’re using, and what needs to be updated. Understanding your budget before you get started will give you a clear picture of how much you can put into a remodel, and where you might need to cut back.
There are plenty of ways to save money on home renovations, including:
- Doing projects yourself
- Striking a balance between high-end and low-end materials
- Enlisting help
- Waiting for big-ticket items to go on sale
You should also consider reusing or upcycling certain things. Reclaimed wood is incredibly popular right now, and many home materials are being created out of recycled materials. Do your research on how to turn “trash” into “treasure.” From sustainable construction upgrades to upcycled furniture, there are ways to do something good for the planet while saving money, too.
In addition to sticking to a budget and saving money, it’s a good idea to consider what might add value to your home (especially if you plan to sell). Things like a fence, new bathroom fixtures, and modern interior upgrades can all boost your home’s worth and get you a better listing price if you put it on the market.
You’ll Have Time to Find the Right People
Having a plan in place will give you a clearer picture of every project that needs to get done. From there, you’ll be able to decide which things you can take on by yourself, and where you’ll need help. If you have some handy friends or family members, there are probably plenty of renovation tasks they can handle.
But, you should make it your responsibility to ensure that everyone is safe when they’re working on your house. When people are working in a construction setting, they can be at a greater risk of slips and falls, hitting their heads, or even experiencing eye damage from nailing, dust, or falling debris. Offer helmets and goggles when you can and ensure everyone is working in a safe environment.
If you choose to hire a contractor, they’ll likely have their own safety measures in place for their crew. When you’re looking for a good contractor, make sure to ask for references, read reviews, and get bids from several different people before you make your choice. Hiring the right person to help with your remodel is about more than what it costs – it’s about their reputation and integrity. Thankfully, when you plan ahead, you’ll have time to do your research on the best contractors in your area.
A Plan Will Help You to Avoid Mistakes
Sitting down to create a plan for your remodel will give you the time you need to cover important bases. From start to finish, you shouldn’t rush your remodeling project – it’s one of the biggest mistakes people make. Rushing often involves cutting corners, and your home could suffer, in the end. You should estimate that a full home remodel will take at least a year, if not longer.
Thankfully, when you consider that amount of time, you can create a more detailed plan that can help to lower the risk of making mistakes. You’ll have time to understand exactly what you want and the best ways to get it.
Some of the biggest mistakes people tend to make without a well-thought-out plan include:
- Inaccurate measuring
- Skipping prep work
- Using the wrong tools
- Ignoring lighting
- Not anticipating the unexpected
Whether you’re working with a contractor or DIYing your home remodel, details are your friend. While you might be anxious to get your home on the market or enjoy the fruits of your labor, good things take time. Keep that in mind as you’re developing your plan, and you’ll be able to see it through every step of the way, no matter how long it takes.
