Whether you’re planning to renovate your kitchen, bathroom, or basement, you can use these renovation ideas to improve the space you currently have. Choosing a contractor is important, but it’s not the only decision you’ll have to make. Several things should be considered before starting a renovation project, including the costs. After all, you’ll need to choose a design and budget before you start actual work.
Costs
Many homeowners focus on the monetary rewards of home remodeling and renovation ideas, but these projects can also improve the quality of life. Depending on the project, renovation projects can increase the value of a home by 50 to 75 percent. Renovation costs are also often higher than the cost of a new home, so you should be prepared for some surprises. Before you start the project, consider a few basic costs to stay within your budget.
Depending on the extent of your remodeling project, you might need to hire a professional. While the process may seem straightforward, costs can vary widely. The most obvious costs are labor costs. However, different types of labor tend to charge different prices. For example, plumbing and wiring can be expensive. In addition, certified electricians and master plumbers charge higher rates for their services. Aside from labor costs, make sure to factor in additional fees and taxes.
Choosing a contractor
Choosing a contractor for your renovation project can be an anxiety-inducing process, so be sure to do your research before you hire someone to work on your project. Consider interviewing three or four licensed contractors to find the right fit for your home remodeling project. Other factors to consider before hiring a contractor include their reputation, their location, and their ability to work within your budget. By selecting a contractor with a stellar reputation, you can avoid experiencing a construction nightmare.
Before selecting a contractor, you should have a clear idea of what you want to achieve from your remodel. Many homeowners hire contractors and agree on a design, only to decide on changes once construction begins. This can lead to cost overruns and halts the project altogether. A good contractor will work closely with you to create a design that you love. Once you’ve made that decision, you can then begin the process of choosing materials.
Planning a project
While there are several advantages to planning a home renovation or remodeling project yourself, it is important to consult with professionals early on. Whether you are hiring an interior designer or a general contractor, you should start as soon as possible, as contractors are usually busy at peak seasons. Besides, you need to plan ahead and make sure you can finish the project on time. If possible, you can consult with a contractor to get a second opinion, which could save you from making costly mistakes.
Before starting the renovation project, you must determine the kind of permit you need. Whether it is a permit or not, structural changes such as adding a habitable floor, should be carefully considered. Also, be sure to check whether the home is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, or if it is a historic structure. Different cities and states have different building regulations and some require a permit to add a second floor or a new bathroom. Therefore, it is essential to know the local building codes and find out what permits are needed before you start the project.
Finding design ideas
If you’re interested in home renovation and remodeling, the Internet is an excellent resource for ideas. Some homeowners collect ideas online, while others prefer to gather them from magazines, brochures, and other printed materials. Whether you want to gather ideas for a complete home makeover or just get inspired by a few ideas, you can easily create a “idea binder” by collecting printouts from your favorite online sources. These binders can serve as a sort of “idea central” and will help you prioritize them. It also allows you to see everything at once and weed out the ones you don’t want.
