Remodeling can be quite exciting. It is fun to mold our home more to our liking, and to make it look fresher. We spend a lot of time in our house, and enjoying our surroundings is important for our overall sense of well-being.
But, as anyone who has ever gone through a remodel will tell you, whether it is multiple areas, or just one, it isn’t exactly a walk in the park. It’s stressful. It’s messy. Unexpected problems can crop up. Budgets get blown.
Here are just a few things to keep in mind before starting your remodeling project.
Is Now Really a Good Time?
Again, remodeling can be super-stressful. Your daily routine can be turned on its head. Once the remodeling spark gets lit, there can be the tendency to rush right in. You want that new kitchen and you want it now…you must get that contractor in here ASAP.
But, before you jump in, stop and think if now is the best time for the project. What else is going on in your life? How would the disruptions affect other activities going on in the home? Are you already stressing about some things, like that thesis you have to write for your master’s degree or a big project at work that is sucking up all your time?
Is dealing with all that comes with a remodel at this juncture something you are up for, or would it be best to put it off?
Get Super-Clear on What You Want and Need
This tip may sound obvious, but many people don’t really give sufficient thought to what they want and need. This causes lots of issues, from the contractors making assumptions you end up not being happy with to spending way more money than you wanted to.
This is a big expense, and you want to make sure you are satisfied with the end result. Chances are, you don’t have money lying around to just rip up everything again a year from now.
If you are not exactly sure of the new look, take some time to browse websites and magazines, and take note of what you like and don’t like. Don’t get carried away with bells and whistles. For rooms like the kitchen or bathroom in particular, don’t get all carried away with form, and forget all about function.
Play around with some software that will allow you to get a better idea of what the completed project will look like. Many remodeling contractors, such as SuperiorStoneandCabinet.com, offer free 3-D software to use.
The clearer your vision, the more likely it is you will be satisfied with the results, and you will stay within your budget.
Be Prepared for the Unexpected
You figure out what you want, get the costs and the budget has been established. But, there is a good chance unexpected costs may arise, and it is important you have some wiggle room in your budget to take care of them. For example, you may need to redo the wiring in the bathroom because it is outdated, or get a new sub floor before laying down your new one because it is rotted away in certain spots.
If your budget is so tight you couldn’t possibly spend another dollar, then it might be a good idea to hold off.
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