If you’ve ever dreamed of restoring a property to its former glory, you’ll know that buying the perfect place is just the start of the hard work.
You can’t afford decision fatigue, overwhelm or over-capitalizing. You don’t want to spend so much on the project that you’ll never get your money back when it’s time to sell.
Below is a guide to help keep it real as you seek inspiration to create your dream home. And if I can help you find that awesome fixer-upper or sell your current home, please don’t hesitate to contact me.
Modern family
Create a vision and plan carefully. Ask yourself how the spaces should function efficiently for each member of the family. Sort out the practicalities before plunging into the aesthetics.
Priority check
At some stages of a remodel, everything feels like a priority, but that’s not the case. In your plan, list each area in descending order of importance. Take time on this, as it will dictate everything that comes after.
Fix a budget
You should know how much you’re able to spend both on the property and the remodel. Always apply an extra 20% to the remodel cost to cover unforeseen problems – and expect it to take significantly longer than you’d like, which may also come with some costs.
Inspire me
Too many folks use only Pinterest and Instagram for inspiration. Many suppliers of materials and paints have fabulous ideas, too. And don’t forget those homemaker magazines.
Have boundaries
Be creative but work within the existing structural confines of the building, or your remodel could turn into a Hollywood production. Ideas such as relocating a staircase or increasing ceiling heights are massive cost items while removing load-bearing walls or moving plumbing also come with significant costs. It doesn’t mean you can’t do it – just be fully aware of the costs.
Right contractor
Begin your search for a builder by seeking personal recommendations. Line up three candidates and ask each for a quote. Don’t alter the scope, or your comparisons will be unfair. Often, the best choice is the contractor who communicates clearly and politely.
Quote, unquote
Quotes are a guide, so don’t kid yourself these will be the final costs. Honest contractors will say they can’t be entirely sure until they get into the work. This is fair. Companies that promise a flat price have already built plenty of fat into their quote for contingencies.
Keep focus
During the work, always approach the project as a whole. Stick to your vision and don’t obsess over a particular room. That’s when decision fatigue kicks in.
Set a deadline
Determine a date on which you’d like the work to commence. You’ll struggle to attract contractors’ attention if you don’t know when you want the work to begin.