For the majority of people, buying a house represents the single greatest purchase they’ll make in life – so it’s perhaps little wonder that, once we settle in our homes, we tend to stay there. On average, it’s estimated the average American stays in a home for around eight years – which perhaps accounts for the popularity of home renovations.
Through our lives, the requirements we have from a house will inevitably change, whether that be through adding children to our brethren or even just a change of circumstances like the new trend for working from home.
Whatever the reason for you feeling you’re outgrowing your current home and thinking it might be time to do some renovation works, below are some tips to help make sure the upgrade goes as smoothly as possible.
Plan ahead
As with most things in life, planning is key if you’re to have direction through the course of your renovation work and have the greatest chances of success. So first, ask yourself why you’re looking to renovate and what you hope to achieve from the upgrade, then set about answering those questions with firm ideas for improvement. Key areas you should consider include:
- Sketches or detailed blueprints showing the upgrade.
- A comprehensive idea of your hopes for the job – plus a detailed list of requirements to make that happen, i.e., materials, fixtures, fittings, etc.
- How and from where you’re going to source materials. Note, you may save considerable money buying online and using a hot shot trucking company like Shiply to get your materials delivered.
- Required steps to achieving your goals – plus identifying what parts you could do on a DIY basis vs. those that will require a professional contractor.
- An all-inclusive, comprehensive budget (including contingency fund).
Source, the right contractors
Depending on the size and complexity of your renovations, you may need to bring in external help, so check online for trusted contractors – or ask friends for recommendations. Unfortunately, the building trade is notorious for fly-by-night operators that can both overcharge and underperform, so you need to keep your wits about you when choosing contractors. In addition, you should only work with a firm that is willing to provide testimonials and, ideally, has experience of the type of work you’re proposing. You can also rent the construction tools and equipment you need for your home renovation, for more information, you can find equipment hire here.
Identify and agree on project milestones and deadlines in advance
Delays are almost inevitable when it comes to any type of construction work, but you can minimize the chances of it happening by agreeing on a schedule in advance. This is particularly important if you’re planning to use contractors, so you should sit down with all invested parties at the start of the job and agree on project milestones and deadlines.
If required, pack up personal items and store them securely
This will also very much depend on the type of renovation work you have planned but, in most cases, you’ll need to clear space for the new materials and to give workers room to work. For example, if you’re having the kitchen renovated, you’ll need to empty all cupboards and possibly also move appliances like your washing machine, fridge, etc.
