If you’re a homeowner wanting a drastic and lasting change, you might consider starting a home renovation. Renovations can be beneficial in that they increase the value of your property as well as making the house more comfortable for the family. These updates can include anything from a brand-new kitchen layout to a new deck or pool in the backyard. Before starting, it’s a good idea to know what to expect so that you can be fully prepared.
Understanding Your Budget
One of the most important aspects of home renovation involves the budget that you’ve created for the work to be done. Keep in mind that a budget needs to be loose enough for some wiggle room. Not everything will go according to plan, so you need to account for changes in the budget that can cause you to go over and spend more than you had hoped. When working with a contractor, it is crucial that you layout your budget so that they know what you’re willing to spend.
Meeting Deadlines
Regardless of who you’re working with, be prepared for deadlines to not be met. Things can get in the way of being completed in a timely manner. For instance, if you’re having a pool put into the backyard, heavy rain and colder weather can affect how quickly it is completed. While it’s a nice idea to have a deadline for the project to be finished, remember that it is unlikely that the work will be completed on the specified day that you want it to be.
The Effect on Your Homeowners Insurance
Renovations may impact your home insurance policy because of changes being made inside or outside of your home. This may cause you to need additional coverage or it may even benefit you because you’re replacing older and less modern appliances and materials with newer ones. One example of this would be adding a pool to your property. Pools often raise the amount you’ll pay in homeowners’ insurance because they are typically seen as a risk to those living on or using the grounds. On the other hand, finishing a basement may lower the amount you pay on your insurance because of the addition of new plumbing and sump pump systems.
Creating a Contract with a Professional
If you’re working with a professional contractor, be sure to work with them closely and have a contract that you both agree upon. The contract needs to be completely airtight in that there is no room for any disagreements. It is important that it’s signed and dated by both parties. It may even help to be notarized for further protection. In the event that the contractor doesn’t fulfill their end of the bargain, you have written proof and documentation that can help to protect you.
Getting Used to the Dust
With any and all home renovations, it takes time to complete a project. This might be weeks or even months, depending on the type of work being done. Be aware that your home or yard is going to be messy, cluttered and dusty for quite some time. Living in the home might be uncomfortable until the renovations are complete. However, once the work has been done, you’ll be left with a gorgeous house that you’ll feel proud to show off.
Sounds like some really good advice. Thanks for the tips.