Home renovation is definitely exciting, but it can be a little intimidating too. Understanding the process will help you to minimize stress and maximize efficiency. We’ve put together a list of home renovation FAQs to help you navigate your next remodeling project.
From where to start to what to expect, here are five common home renovation questions answered:
#1 What Should I Remodel First?
Evaluate your home for design issues and then work towards solutions. Start by determining what you want to achieve with a remodel including which parts of the home are most in need of renovation. Fundamentals first! This means investing in a sound foundation, roof, windows, plumbing, and heating/air is a necessity if they are in need of repair. Then prioritize your design update list—since updated kitchens and baths often bring the best return on investment we recommend homeowners prioritize these rooms for remodeling if they are undesirable or outdated.
#2 How Do I Prepare?
Renovation is an investment in yourself, and also your real estate. After prioritizing your renovation wishlist, establish project budgets. This may require methodically scanning a space to determine what the remodel will entail—floor to ceiling. Then get to know what you like and don’t like. View online galleries (Houzz and Pinterest are great places to start!) and visit model homes to get a feel for your own personal style. Consider your home’s anticipated value post-renovation and how long you plan to reside in your residence to determine what investment makes sense. Look for low-interest funding if necessary and begin to interview qualified designers and/or referred contractors.
#3 Do I Hire Help?
Seeking pro advice is definitely recommended. Even just one consultation with a professional designer can save money and especially time in the long run. Working with an interior designer and/or project coordinator is usually the easiest and most enjoyable way to remodel a home. DIY is an option too depending on homeowner skill, interests, and especially timeline. A combination of the two may be the best fit and a good option for modest project budgets. Everything Home offers flexible design services ranging from design coaching (designer provides a professional design vision for the client to implement with their own contractors) to full-service design and install (designer is retained to design, coordinate, and oversee the renovation project from concept through completion using preferred vendors and construction partners).
#4 How Long Does Home Reno Take?
Home renovation can take weeks to months depending on the scale of the project. Timeline is an important consideration before planning a renovation. Reno often leads to some disturbance at home, including some rooms being inaccessible or relocation from the job site. Plan renovation projects during appropriate seasons to accommodate altered schedules and living. Project timelines can change, sometimes speeding up and other times slowing down. Surprises can be mitigated with ample research and upfront exploratory work. The more planning, the better!
#5 Will I have to Move Out?
Though not necessary for every renovation project, typically for convenience it is best to relocate during extensive remodels. Living off-site may even help contractors to accelerate construction since working hours will be less limited. Projects requiring demo are particularly messy and often generate large amounts of dust, and sometimes even toxins. Reno zones may be deemed unusable for extended periods of time—a potential need for temporary housing is definitely something to consider when formalizing project budgets.
Working with an experienced remodeling contractor like Everything Home can take the mystery out of home renovation. Contact us to learn more about our flexible design services and award-winning home makeovers.
What home renovation questions do you have? Leave them in the comments below and we’d be happy to answer them.
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