Renovating a home is an adventure for a homeowner, but it’s not without its stresses. For one thing, renovation can be expensive and a bit disruptive to the homeowner’s daily life as well as their bank account. A large renovation can take a surprisingly long time. In some cases, it can take as long as two years. But a well-done renovation is worth it, both for its aesthetics and the added value, security, and comfort that it gives to a home. Here are some pointers on starting a home renovation.
Things to Know Before Starting Renovations
The first thing to know before a homeowner starts a renovation is whether they really want one and what they want it for. Is it just because the room furnishings are out of date? Do they need more space to accommodate a growing household, or is the renovation to add to the resale value of the home?
After this, the homeowner needs to answer which area or areas of the home they wish to renovate. is it the kitchen, the bathroom, or some other room? After they’ve decided where the renovation is going to be, the homeowner needs to imagine what the renovated area will look like in the end. With that in mind, they’ll need to prepare a budget. After this, they’ll need to determine if they can start the renovation immediately or if a bit of time is needed for them to gather the finances to achieve the renovation that they want.
When the homeowner is financially and psychologically prepared for the renovation, experts recommend that they interview at least three building contractors. This includes speaking to their former clients. The contractor should be licensed, bonded, and insured, and every aspect of the renovation should be covered in a written contract.
What Room in Your Home Is the Easiest to Renovate?
Contractors claim that the easiest room in the home to renovate is the bathroom. Bathrooms tend to be small, and many homeowners don’t make major changes to the basic plumbing. This can allow homeowners to splurge a bit when it comes to the bathroom. They can, for example, add features such as a rainwater showerhead, marble-topped vanities with porcelain sinks and gooseneck faucets, beautiful tile floors and tub surrounds, and exotic waterproof wallpaper. On the other hand, many experts claim that the first room to renovate is the kitchen since it’s the hub of the house.
Pricing for a Complete Renovation
A homeowner who has a renovation in mind can look up the price of appliances, plumbing fixtures, cabinetry, and lighting over the internet or by visiting a big box store. They should also see how much it costs for actions such as removing walls, replacing windows, or repiping the plumbing system. Because there will always be hidden costs to any renovation, it’s a good idea to add at least 15 percent to the total cost of the budget. Consulting with contractors can help a homeowner with this, for they can give the homeowner estimates when it comes to the type of renovation they want.