Home renovations look amazing in the end, but they can get quite messy during the in-between moments. Before you enjoy the finished result, you’ll probably encounter a few issues. Here are five things you should know about home renovations.
1. You might need to get a permit.
Each city has its own rules, but most major renovations require a permit. This includes taking down walls, updating plumbing and electrical systems, and installing fences. It sometimes takes a bit of research to figure out exactly which permits you need. If you want assistance navigating the permit world, hire a contractor.
2. Improvements might not pay off.
Upgrading and remodeling doesn’t always add to your resale value. If you want to recoup your costs, make sure you’re not going above and beyond the standard of your neighborhood. Updating your kitchen and bathrooms will almost guarantee you a good return-on-investment. Stick to neutral colors, and install stainless steel appliances.
3. Hiring a professional might be more affordable.
Get a few quotes before you decide to do the renovations yourself. Don’t forget to add up your own time, energy, interest, skill level, and how long you’re wiling to live in a work zone. If you do it yourself, you might encounter unexpected costs, such as equipment rentals and having to take time off work. And don’t forget that most home improvement projects go at least 10% over budget.
4. Good contractors are always booked for months.
If a contractor is available immediately, that means they aren’t booking jobs…and there’s probably a reason for that. Good contractors are booked months out, so make sure you keep that in mind. How can you tell if a contractor is does good work or not? Recommendations and reviews are everything! Ask potential contractors for a list of past clients and inquire about the quality of their work. Make sure the contractor is licensed, bonded, and insured. And do further research into the subcontractors they work with.
5. Reusing materials might cost more.
You might think using less materials will be less expensive. However, it’s usually less expensive to cut into a new material than to pay the contractor the extra time it will take to reuse one.