Tuesday, November 01, 2011

How to Deal With Major Home Renovations


When done purposefully, cleverly and competently, renovations and upgrades can increase the value of your home by thousands of dollars. Good planning is the key to success, whether you’re aiming for a small or a major remodeling project.
Renovations or upgrades are one of the best ways to not only increase the value of your house but also to increase your enjoyment of your home. With a sound plan and a bit of imagination, your project can be a winner. Your first job is to make a list of objectives for your renovation. This list tells you how extensive your project will be. Budget will of course figure into your final decision.
You need to think about what would be the most cost effective upgrade. The kitchen and bathrooms are first choice upgrades that convert into more money later. The kitchen is the heartbeat of your home; and when you entertain guests, the flow often moves there. The bathroom is another room home buyers love to inspect vigilantly, so you’ll want it to have lots of appeal.
If you’re planning to begin a do-it-yourself home improvement scheme, you’ll need to think about a number of issues before taking the plunge.  Here are just a few to keep in mind:
  • Tools: It’s vital to have the correct tools for some jobs.   
  • Skills: You have to evaluate your skills realistically and know your limits.   
  • Time: You have to think about the time you have available to take on these home improvement and repair responsibilities.

If you’re not going to do the renovation yourself, ask friends and work colleagues for recommendations. It will be well worth taking the time interviewing and checking credentials to ensure you have the right company. Make sure you get a written contract that includes, amongst other points, what work is to be done, a timeline, terms of payment, and verify that the contractor is insured so you won’t be held liable if they’re injured on your premises.
Planning your renovation project can take a good deal of time, but because home renovation is a huge undertaking, it’s time well spent. There’s no getting away from the fact that home renovations can be dusty, inconvenient and can often go over budget, but when you see your dream realized, it’ll all be worth it!

 
I pull out all the stops to sell your home.
Lonnie Snyder
REALTOR ®
Keller Williams Realty Southeast Sound
Phone:  206-406-2710           
 

Lonnie Snyder is a full time real estate agent and REALTOR® with Keller Williams Realty specializing in Residential Real Estate for buyers and sellers in Washington's Kent, Renton, Newcastle and South Bellevue.