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What are Some Tips for Renovating a House?
Following some key steps in renovating a house is important for a good result. Careful planning should always be the first step in any home renovation project. When it comes to tips for renovating an entire house, planning, budgeting, getting permits and choosing contractors are crucial areas.
Planning a house renovation is something that shouldn't be rushed. Starting with a clear reason for a house renovation guides the decision making in the right direction. For example, if a homeowner's main purpose in renovating is to create more space for a growing family, then each room can be planned in terms of how to reach that overall goal. Interviewing people who have recently completed or are in the middle of renovating their house is a great tip because doing this may help a new renovator avoid mistakes that could increase renovation costs. Budgeting carefully during the planning stage of renovating a house is essential, and a log book with estimated and actual costs should be kept throughout the project.
A helpful tip when choosing building experts and contractors is to not only go by price and experience alone, but to actually contact their references and ask relevant questions about skill and service. Most contractors will also be able to provide before and after photographs of house renovations they've completed. If the project is renovating a ranch house, then it's best to find a contractor experienced in doing just that — with satisfied clients and before and after photos to prove it. When renovating a house, the end result is crucial since only a successful renovation will increase a home's market value. Of course, homeowners don't want to go through the time and expense involved only to end up with a house renovation they literally can't live with.
Renovating a house typically takes longer than even the most careful planning can estimate, so one of the best tips for homeowners involved in a renovation is to make plans for extra living accommodations so they’ll be prepared if delays do occur. Enough time should be allowed to include delays in getting building or plumbing permits, as well as time in finding additional experts in these areas. If structural renovations are planned, architects and additional permits are likely to be required.
Another great tip when renovating a house is to think "updated" rather than "trendy" in terms of design. If the cost of renovating a house is spent on creating a trendy look, it only means that more money will be needed when that look becomes outdated, and this is not likely to increase the property value. Trendy style can easily be added with furnishings and accessories, so architectural features, kitchens and bathrooms should be updated for a modern appeal that goes beyond up-to-the-minute trends.
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![Planning a house renovation is something that should not be rushed.]()
By: Sherri CampPlanning a house renovation is something that should not be rushed. -
![The costs of supplies should be considered when planning a renovation.]()
By: GoodMood PhotoThe costs of supplies should be considered when planning a renovation.
Discussion Comments
Another way to save money on renovations or a house remodel is by shopping around for materials and products. The price differences among the varies brands is surprising, so compare before you buy. Also, shop around for contractors and negotiate a price that works for you.
Paying contractors for renovating a home can cost a small fortune. I'm not a wizard with tools,but I have saved money by completing small to medium size renovations myself, with the help of my family and friends.
I'm not telling you to rewire your whole house or add a room, but I was surprised at some of the additions and changes I was able to make with help. And the results looked great.
The part of the article that says if you want to renovate a ranch house then get a contractor who has renovated a ranch house may seem basic, but it is so true, and not everyone follows that simple rule. I didn't.
I was doing home renovating in my den and redoing the fireplace area, closing off the chimney and putting in a gas insert among other things. Turns out the contractor I chose had never done that type of job. I thought it was a relatively simple job, but, long story short, I had to have the job redone by another contractor 6 months later.
The first contractor did a great job on all the other renovations, but his lack of experience with the fireplace ended up costing me more money. I learned my lesson the hard way.
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