It’s disappointing to spend large amounts of time and money on a home remodeling or renovation project only to be unsatisfied with the results. Unfortunately, this happens to a lot homeowners. However, many of the obstacles that can hinder projects can be identified before construction begins, if you take the time to plan and accurately budget. If you want to make some home improvements, keep these ideas in mind.
Start With the Right Mindset
Remodeling and renovating a home is exciting. But there’s also a lot of frustration as you encounter unexpected snags, delays, and the inevitable inconveniences that come from living in a work zone. You’ll handle the lows better if you know they’re coming. Having the right expectations and managing stress is important to a project’s success. Many people experience different emotions during the remodeling process. The fear of the purchase, the disruption of daily routine, delayed schedules, permit delays are just a few examples of what can upset you. The main thing you have to remember is that the construction process is inherently very slow, unpredictable and difficult to control. When things happen it doesn’t mean that your contractor is dropping the ball or that the process is broken it just means you are experiencing some of the problems associated with remodeling or building a home. The key is working with your contractor as a team to manage the issues and have open lines of communication and understanding at all times. Understanding and having clear expectations is the best way to combat project anxiety. In the end as long as you work as a team with your remodeling contractor your project will be successful and enjoyed by you and your family for years.
Find the Right Contractor
If you are acquiring professional help for your home improvement project, make sure to check all the necessary background details of the company. Experienced and professional contractors maintain an organized work environment by using quality materials, taking precautionary measures, and completing the work on time with utmost dedication. Some contractors may offer the cheapest quote, but that low price often means that some aspects of the project may not be completed to your satisfaction. Although experienced contractors may charge more, they offer years of expertise, have the necessary insurance to protect you from liability, and are educated in finding cost effective solutions when large or small problems arise. Make sure you ask any and all questions that will help you understand what will take place in your home. You should feel very comfortable with your contractor, since this will form the relationship necessary for a successful remodeling project.
Plan Ahead
You want your project to be a success, right? Then plan everything ahead of time! From the selection of materials and household items to planning the budget and consulting the contractor, everything should be properly planned before starting the project. Planning ahead will not just save big on your budget but you will also be able to finish off the project without any mishaps. Making design plans and calculating the entire estimate you will get to know the cost of each and every item so that you do not run out of budget by the end of the project. Remember to include all the unforeseen expenses in your calculations when making a budget plan.
Make Sure Your Contract Covers All the Bases
If you jump into a remodeling project with an ambiguous contract or no contract at all, you’re just asking for trouble. The written agreement should include these elements: a timetable for the project, price and payment schedule, detailed specifications for all products and materials, insurance information, permit information, lien releases, and provisions for conflict resolution. Also, discuss and agree on how change orders will be handled. There is always the chance you may want to change materials or other project details during the job. Before work starts, make sure you agree with your remodeler about how these changes will be handled. Also understand that changes could affect the schedule and the budget, so it’s important you have all changes in writing.
Your Return on Investment
No matter how long you plan to live in your home, it’s important to consider the return on investment your renovation or addition will produce. Although it makes sense to include the features you’ll love and use when you remodel, spending too much may mean that you’ll take a loss on your improvements if you do eventually sell your home. But believe it or not, many people want their home to be their castle and so ROI is not their main goal. Quality of living and an inspiring space is at the heart and you can’t put a price on that.
At Xtreme Home Improvement we offer expert remodeling services in Central Pennsylvania. You won’t need to worry about the details because we’ll work with you to make the process painless, efficient, cost effective, and as rewarding as possible. You can always expect quality products & craftsmanship at fair prices. No job is too big or too small for us! If you are in need of these services or would simply like more information, feel free to contact us. We’ll answer all of your questions.