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8 Home Remodel Tips for a Successful Renovation

Black House Real Estate June 27, 2023


If you’ve been hoping to level up your living space, you might be wondering how to get started and ensure the process goes smoothly. With benefits that include improved functionality, better aesthetics, and increased enjoyment of the home, it comes as no surprise that many homeowners are choosing to tackle a renovation.

With a few upgrades, any property can be transformed into a dream home. However, home improvement can quickly turn into a major headache riddled with setbacks, unmet deadlines, and additional expenses. Before starting your next home improvement project, be sure to follow these eight remodeling tips to help ensure your renovations go forward without a hitch.

1. Define your goals for the project

Having a solid plan in place is the first step to any home improvement project. Throughout your renovations, you will need to communicate your vision for the project with numerous professionals. The best way to ensure everything goes smoothly and that you end up with the desired finished product is to write down all your goals and fit them into a set budget and timeline. This will help you keep your contractors on time and ensure you get everything you hope for.

Plan out the layout of the room, the storage spaces you need, and the general look you want to see. Choose what upgrades you desire and note anything you do not want to be changed. Pick out materials that will complement the room and design. Measure the room to be sure all furniture and appliances you pick out will fit in the space.

Talk to a few local real estate professionals to help you devise a proper timeline. Even if you are planning on doing the remodel yourself, having clearly defined goals will prevent you from getting sidetracked and give you a plan to follow from start to finish.

2. Make a budget ahead of time

Once you get started on your home’s remodel, it can be easy to end up spending more than anticipated. Unexpected repairs and last-minute upgrades can all ratchet up the remodeling bill. Creating a budget before starting your renovation is a great way to make sure you do not spend more than you have to. Do some research ahead of time, and reach out to a local professional to help you set a realistic budget for your project.

Once you have an estimated budget in mind, commit to sticking to it. Once your renovations begin, it can be easy to get talked into buying more expensive appliances or materials. Your budget will guide you on what you can and cannot afford throughout your remodel.

3. Prepare your home for the remodel

One of the most important remodeling tips is to ensure that your home is clear of clutter and ready for the renovation project to begin. Contractors will not be able to work efficiently in a room that is dirty or full of personal belongings. In the weeks leading up to your remodel, pack up each space and store everything in a separate area or storage unit. This will ensure that your contractor can see and maneuver around the room to successfully complete your home improvement project. Packing away valuables and covering furniture will help prevent anything from getting damaged during the project as well.

4. Choose high-ROI home improvements

Many homeowners think of their property as an investment, and they hope to see a good return on it whenever the time comes to sell. Choosing the projects that provide the best return on investment can help you get the most for your home and attract buyers. Increasing the functionality of your home is always a good choice for those looking to achieve more at the closing table.

Consider adding a home office or new closets. If you plan on selling your home within the next five years, try to keep the design current and modern. Upgrading appliances, remodeling the kitchen, and renovating the bathroom are always good home improvement projects that can increase the return on your investment and appeal to the vast majority of potential buyers.

5. Hire an experienced contractor

Most homeowners will need to hire experienced help to complete their home improvement projects. However, do not assume that any local contractor is as good as the next. Always research your options, read testimonials, and interview your options before settling on the right professional to do the job. While most contractors take pride in their craft, some may be known for poor-quality work, cutting corners, missing timelines, and going over budget.

Try to hire contractors with certifications and experience completing projects like yours. If possible, check out their “before and after” pictures of past projects. You will need to be in touch with your contractor throughout the entire remodel, so be sure to find someone who is easy to talk to and understands your vision for the project. If you need help finding a contractor in your area, reaching out to a local agent can help.

6. Stay in touch with your contractor throughout the process

By checking in consistently, you can ensure everything is going to plan while also staying up to date, on time, and hopefully under budget. Being present throughout your remodel will allow your contractor to ask any clarifying questions. Along the way, you can ensure that the renovations are meeting your expectations.

7. Plan for the unexpected

When remodeling a home, sudden setbacks can pop up all the time. Flexibility and preparation for unexpected delays and expenses can keep your project on track. Adding extra time to your schedule and money to your budget can help you be prepared for whatever obstacles might arise and keep stress out of your renovation.

8. Team up with a real estate agent

If you are thinking about remodeling and do not know where to start, contact one of our experienced Hanover real estate agents for guidance and advice. The experts at Black House Real Estate are ready to connect you with trusted local contractors and give you remodeling tips that focus on your goals. Do not hesitate to give the team a call today.

*Header photo courtesy of Unsplash




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