Looking for a Change?
When it comes to your home, are you READY for a change? I think the changing of the seasons often motivates us to make some updates -- minor or major -- to celebrate the end (hopefully!) of winter and the freshness of spring and the heat of the summer. Yeah, baby!
This July will mark three years since we underwent a major renovation of our "new" old home. While it was sometimes a hassle living through it (to put it mildly), we kept our "eye on the prize" and have been enjoying the results of our (and an extremely competent team of subcontractors') efforts every day since.
Are you contemplating a home renovation?
First, and foremost, make upgrades that are in line with your neighborhood. I always advise clients to think about the potential resale of your home. Don't price yourself out of the market.Here are some other valuable tips to keep in mind when undergoing a renovation.
1. Create your vision.
Start by identifying the projects you want to complete. Pull pictures from magazines, design resource books and online resources, such as Houzz, to show your architect and designer the type of look and feel you want to create in your new space.
2. Find a reputable remodeler.
Hire an experienced, licensed remodeler that you trust. Get references from architects, interior designers and neighbors. Once identified, visit the remodeler's former clients and current job sites. Do you like what you see and hear? Ask detailed questions. The best remodelers maintain clean and organized work sites, take precautionary measures to ensure safety, and know how to keep a low profile in a neighborhood. They also are up front with you about how they charge for their services.
Create drawings and specifications. Eliminate ambiguity up front. Make a hard and fast budget. Know the process for making changes as they will invariably occur -- especially in a remodel. You don't know what you have, in most cases, until you open up the walls. Contract details should include project timing and performance expectations, as well as billing and cost expectations.
4. Pack like you're moving.
Newsflash: Opening walls and building new spaces creates dust, dirt and grime. A lot of it. Even though you're doing the project on the first floor, the second floor will still be impacted. Pack up your belongings to avoid any kind of damage.
5. Set up a temporary camp.
If you're doing a kitchen remodel and living in the house while it is occurring, set up a temporary kitchen. Equip it with the bare necessities. Realize that it's not going to be like your full service kitchen, but a better kitchen is coming.
6. Communicate.
Schedule weekly (at least) meetings with your remodeler to get a status update. Ask questions. Give compliments, as deserved. Follow-up on items your remodeler has asked you to do. Making product and finish selections within the timeframe the remodeler has established will only help you get back to a "normal" life. A good interior designer will be help you stay on schedule.
7. Treat your workers well.
Be respectful of others. You're all working toward the same goal. Don't rush the job. Finish work tells the end tale of the overall quality of a job.
Take it from me…
Renovations can be stressful.
Remember the end goal you're striving for and keep a positive attitude.
Laugh. It will get better. I promise.
Investment Returns
Cost: $72,538
Cost Recouped at Resale: 60.6%
Bath Remodel
Cost: $51,374
Cost Recouped at Resale: 63.6%
Major Kitchen Remodel
Cost: $109,935
Cost Recouped at Resale: 63.6%
Basement Remodel
Cost: $62,834
Cost Recouped at Resale: 77.6%
Window Replacement
Cost: $13,385
Cost Recouped at Resale: 76.6%
Source: 2013-2014 Cost vs. Value Report by the National Association of Realtors
Positively yours,
Paula Chamblin Aulino
Interior Designer, Associate ASID
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