If you have never done a home renovation project before, or even if you have, it’s understandable to be a bit anxious. After all, any renovation project takes time and money. It can also be stressful if you don’t plan ahead.
The first thing you should do before starting any renovation project is to write down your goals. Why are you doing this? If you need more room, additional closets or remodeling the garage is a good idea. Looking to add functionality? Then the kitchen or bathroom is the place to focus. If you want to renovate the house before selling it, you might want to look at the entire house as a whole.
Your goal or objective is important because it will determine your priorities and inform your decisions. It will also have an impact on project cost and time. For example, if you want to update the bathroom a fresh coat of paint may be all you need. If you intend to sell the house after the renovation, a new front door or roof might make more sense than upgrading the wallpaper.
Planning is Everything
Once you know your goal, it’s time to start planning. Being unprepared will cost you – in terms of money, time, and effort. Having a plan is more than picking out colors or measuring the space. You should have a rough idea of the major decisions you need to make and what it will cost you. Make sure to have a budget and a schedule in mind.
You also need to decide if you will hire experts or do everything yourself. Not everyone is handy with home projects. If you are undecided on the DIY route, price both options and see what you can afford.
Some projects are simple enough that you don’t need to be an expert to tackle them. A few examples are replacing the faucet or painting a room. But if you want to do more extensive renovations like plumbing or electrical work, it is generally better to call in the experts.
You should also plan for smaller things. If you are buying tile, measure at least twice and write them down. If you are replacing older items, read how-to guides online so you don’t make a mistake. Planning also means buying parts and tools beforehand. You don’t want to be in the middle of a project and have to run to the store for a crucial part.
Select Classic or Timeless Designs
It can be tempting to follow the latest trends. Remember when all-white kitchens and stainless steel appliances here all the rage? Well, that trend has gone. Now it’s all about colorful appliances and dark walls. Given how expensive renovations can be, do you really want to change everything?
Trends change with time. Keeping up with them is costly and not really necessary. Another thing to remember is whether the trend will work for you. That trendy white kitchen might be difficult to maintain every day. Those colorful appliances might be out of place in a few years. Don’t use something just because it’s in style. Consider if it suits your family and lifestyle. If the answer is yes, by all means, go right ahead!
Renovating is not something you want to do every few years. Pick out a design or style that is timeless and one you like. It may or may not be trendy. If it’s not, keep in mind that it would likely come back in style in a few years. A classic design doesn’t need frequent updating. It will be something you can live with for years and even decades.
Choose Quality over Quantity
This is an excellent tip for every home renovation project. Always choose quality over quantity. It doesn’t matter if you are upgrading the entire room or just a few pieces. Invest in quality products that will stand the test of time.
Let’s take an example. Suppose you want to upgrade your bathroom because it is old or there’s not enough room. Don’t think you have to rip up everything and renovate from scratch. Look around. See what pieces need updating and what can stay. Sometimes you can even reuse items like tile or cabinets. Switching out handles or painting the cabinets can give you a new look without spending too much.
Invest in a few high-quality items like a new bathtub or sink. These will pay off in the long term. If those pieces are solid and work well, consider changing smaller items throughout. Small things like a faucet, showerhead, and a new towel bar can liven up any bathroom. It’s better to invest in a few quality items than spend the same amount on a shoddy remodel.
