The Top Ten Home Improvement Ideas
Do you have any plans to renovate your present home or a home
you just bought? Here are some suggestions to make you feel more fulfilled when
you go home.
Resale
Even if you intend to remain in the house, consider the next
owner. You'll have a lot of possibilities if you make sure your modifications
increase resale value. Kitchen upgrades, space expansion, the addition of a
deck, the installation of hardwood floors, and window replacement are all
possibilities to think about.
Planning
Think about what you desire for a long time. Hunt at storage
options and spaces at IKEA, then look for inspiration on Houzz. To see how the
alterations will look, ask your planner or contractor for a 3D rendering. You
don't want to get to the end of the project and reflect, "Ah, I wish I
had..."
Contractor
Make a sensible decision and get three bids. Pay a visit to
their clients and examine their work. To obtain a copy of their insurance
certificate, contact them.
Contract
Obtain a comprehensive contract and go over it with a
fine-tooth comb. Unless you don't care what you wind up with, a broad notion of
the work and a handshake will suffice.
Expect a few
unexpected twists and turns.
Surprises are inescapable, but if you plan ahead of time,
they should be minimized to a minimal. Set aside some extra cash for them,
perhaps 10% of your makeover budget. If you don't require it, it's alright.
You should not go out
and purchase items on your own.
You might be disappointed if you expect to save money by
specifying and acquiring your own supplies. Contractors despise the practice,
and they are significantly better at selecting and negotiating than the average
homeowner. Don't worry; they'll let you make all of the decisions, but they'll
take care of all the transactions and warranties.
Gather your
belongings.
Pack as much of your belongings as you can in the parts of
the house where the work will be done. Contractors despise negotiating heaps of
clothes and toys, and the work is a shambles.
Maintain your distance
from the action.
I understand that it's entertaining to watch and that you
want to keep an eye on the work, but contractors will be lot happy if you let
them get the job done without you looking over their shoulder or, worse,
attempting to help.
The number of
adjustments made in the middle of the procedure should be kept to a minimum.
We may discover that something on the plan needs to be
adjusted during the course of a renovation project. It is advisable to anger
the contractor now rather than later if you have strong feelings about it.
Have a professional go
over your work.
Even if the renovations are minor, have an independent
contractor or a house inspector look at the work before you sign the contract.
Spending a few hundred dollars on a consultation will assure your satisfaction
and prevent unpleasant shocks later.
