Taking on a home renovation of any kind can be a stressful process, but it can also be extremely satisfying to watch your plans and ideas come to life. Whether your ultimate goal is to make your home safer for your family or to spruce up an area that could use an update, you’ll need to figure out the details from the beginning, including how long the project will take, which areas will be affected, how much it will cost and whom you’ll be working with. These tips will help you start the planning stages of your renovation project.
Connect with an Interior Designer
Working with an interior designer can help you make the most of your home renovation. From deciding on a style and selecting the right materials, to making sure the space is comfortable and efficient, an experienced designer will help create a beautiful living environment tailored to your needs. A designer can also provide advice on cost-effective solutions, help you find quality products that fit into your budget and ensure that everything comes together perfectly.
Budget Carefully for a Market-Friendly Outcome
Using the right tools can help you create solid estimates for your projects, both in terms of time and money. In keeping with the old carpenter’s maxim of “measure twice, cut once,” with careful and accurate data, you have the opportunity for your project to raise your property value.
Get Familiar with Contractors’ Tools
Working with contractors is sometimes necessary for the bigger tasks associated with a renovation or for those that are too dangerous to DIY. To make your time with a contractor as efficient and positive as possible, take the initiative to learn a little about the tools they’ll be using so you can fully understand the process. For example, many contractors utilize takeoff software tools that help them manage their projects, and they also use tools that help them design layouts for projects such as landscaping.
Consider Your Needs when Adding a Home Office
If you work from home or run a home-based business, you’ll need a great workspace that offers privacy and eliminates distractions. Your home office should also reduce stress and contribute to your wellness, and an easy way to do that is to make natural light part of the design process.
Outsourcing your project? Communicating your needs to your contractor will ensure that your home office has everything you need, from the right wiring to the amount of sunlight you get each day. Make a list of things you can’t live without and make sure your contractor understands exactly what you want before getting started. If ample natural light isn’t available, discuss overhead lighting options.
Choose the Right Home Warranty
If your office or other home renovation project affects a major home system, such as the HVAC unit or electrical wiring, it’s a good idea to check your options for protection. Homeowners insurance typically doesn’t cover appliances or major systems, which means any repairs will be left up to you, and that could put you way over budget.
A home warranty from a reliable home warranty company, however, does cover those systems and will give you peace of mind should a breakdown occur. Before choosing one, take a look at your home inspection report to find out if there are any existing warranties and what they cover, and read reviews to choose the best one for your needs.
Keep Your Family and Belongings Safe
When taking on a home renovation project of any kind, it’s important not to overlook safety. Hanging up plastic tarps can help prevent dust and debris from migrating to other parts of your home; protecting your floors, providing paper shoe coverings and ear plugs, and utilizing an air purifier are all great ways to manage the physical aspects of a renovation. Talk to any contractors before work begins so you can keep your home and family safe.
Home renovations can be lengthy, especially when delays occur. Try to roll with the punches and have a backup plan when possible, as this will reduce stress. Communicate your needs when it comes to building a home office, choose the right home warranty and get familiar with the tools your contractor uses in order to make the process run as smoothly as possible.
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