Considerations For Your Next Home Improvement Project
Homeowners love renovation and remodeling projects. Each project that is completed brings them one step closer to having their dream home. However, there are certain things that must be considered when undertaking a home improvement project. Keep the following three things in mind as the process moves forward.
Prioritize Projects
Although it would be really nice to have a new sunroom, this project needs to wait if the roof is failing. Once any major defects are corrected, the homeowner can move on to those projects they wish to do. When this day arrives, prioritize the projects based on the value they will add to the home.
Most experts say kitchen and bathroom remodels should come first. If other rooms appear neglected, give them a fresh coat of paint. This will brighten them at very little expense. In addition, consider how much enjoyment the project will bring to family members, particularly when there are no plans to move in the coming years. By prioritizing projects, a homeowner can get the most from the money they have budgeted for home improvements.
If you are ready to plan for your next home improvement project, reach out to a contractor. They can help prioritize projects by determining which repair and maintenance tasks need to be completed. Once high-priority repairs are done, the contractor will help the homeowner determine which projects should be completed first based on the value they add.
Budget Allocation
Once it has been determined which project will be done first, it’s time to create a budget. Start by seeing how much money can be set aside for the project. This makes planning the project easier, as the homeowner knows exactly how much they can spend on materials and labor. They can try different designs to find the one that can meet their needs and fits their budget.
However, homeowners often overlook certain things when taking this step. For example, every homeowner needs to build in a budget contingency. Although most projects don’t go over budget by more than five percent, add ten percent to be on the safe side. In addition, factor in all costs. Many people, for example, overlook cleanup costs. Don’t make this mistake. The contractor can be helpful when creating a reasonable budget that takes all factors into account.
Safety Considerations
The homeowner wants the project done right, but they also want the workers to be safe when doing so. Never allow a contractor to cut corners, as this could be costly in the long run. Ensure they have liability and workers’ compensation insurance at a minimum. Additional insurance is preferred so the homeowner won’t be held responsible if something goes wrong during the project.
In addition, ask if there are any guarantees regarding the project timeline. Although a contractor cannot control Mother Nature or supply chain issues, they need to prepare for dealing with problems. An unfinished project can become a safety concern. For example, the family may plan to move out of the home until the work is completed. If the project goes weeks past the established deadline, they may need to return home. This could lead to safety concerns. Hence, try to learn how the contractor will handle situations such as this.
The choice of contractor plays a large role in the homeowner’s satisfaction with the finished project. Keep this in mind, and speak with several contractors. This ensures the selection of the right person and company, regardless of which project is being undertaken.
