A home remodel is a big investment. You want to be sure that you are getting the most bang for your buck and avoid costly mistakes. Here are five tips to help you avoid a bad remodeling strategy:
1. Pay attention to the importance of good design.
2. Make sure your contractor is licensed and insured.
3. Get multiple bids before selecting a contractor.
4. Pay attention to the details.
5. Remember to factor in the cost of permits.
1. Design Matters
The first tip might seem obvious, but it's worth repeating: design matters. A well-designed space will function better and feel more spacious than a poorly designed one, regardless of its actual square footage. When planning your remodeling, be sure to work with a designer or architect who can create a functional layout that makes the most of your available space.
2. Check Your Contractor's Credentials
Before you hire a contractor, be sure to check their licensing and insurance status. In most states, contractors must be licensed to work on your home. You can usually find this information on your state's website or by calling the licensing board directly.
In addition, verify that your contractor has liability insurance and workers' compensation coverage; this will protect you if someone is injured on the job or if there is damage to your property during the remodeling process.
3. Get Multiple Bids
Once you've found a few contractors you're interested in working with, get bids from each of them before making a final decision. Be sure to compare apples to apples when reviewing the bids; for example, if one contractor includes the cost of permits in their bid and another does not, that's not an accurate comparison.
In addition, take time to meet with each contractor and ask questions about their experience, process, and the timeline for completion; this will help you get a sense of whether or not they're a good fit for your project.
4. Pay Attention to the Details
No detail is too small when you're remodeling your home; even something as seemingly minor as outlet placement can make a big difference in your space's overall function and aesthetic. Pay attention to all the details when planning your remodeling, from lighting fixtures and finishes to plumbing fixtures and hardware; even the smallest details can impact your overall look and feel spacious. In addition, be sure to communicate your vision clearly to your contractor; this will help them understand what you're looking for and ensure that they can deliver on your expectations.
5. Factor in the Cost of Permits
Before starting any work on your home, check with your local building department to see if permits are required for the work you want; failing to do so could result in costly fines or delays in getting your project approved.
In addition, be sure to factor the cost of permits into your budget; depending on the scope of work, permits can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars.
Conclusion
A home remodel is a big investment, so you must do it right! Be sure to keep these tips in mind when planning your next project: design matters, make sure your contractor is licensed and insured, get multiple bids before selecting a contractor, pay attention to the details, and remember about permits! With these tips in mind, you can have a successful remodel!
