Whether you’ve recently bought a new property or you’re preparing to modernize or revamp a home you’ve owned for years, it’s crucial to plan ahead. Home renovations cost a lot of money, and it’s vital to make sure that you do everything possible to ensure your project runs smoothly. If you’re ready to renovate, here’s a handy checklist to work through.
Gathering ideas and information
You might think you know exactly what you want, but it’s always beneficial to do some research and to gather ideas before you make any final plans. Read magazines, browse online galleries and take inspiration from TV makeover shows. You can combine different elements and design ideas to come up with a vision that checks all of the boxes. It’s incredibly useful to take photographs, images and screenshots into meetings with you so that the architects and building companies you work with understand what you’re hoping to achieve.
Setting a budget
The cost of a renovation project can range from hundreds to millions of dollars. Before you set anything in stone, figure out how much you want to spend on your home revamp. Once you know how much you can afford, you can work with experts to come up with a design that fits in with your requirements. As a homeowner, it’s always wise to try and add value. Renovations can boost the value of your home, but you need to be aware of factors that affect the ceiling price. You don’t want to spend a fortune on an incredible kitchen if it’s only going to increase the value slightly due to the location of your property, for example. Work out the figures and get a series of quotes.
Choosing building firms and architects
For the vast majority of people, their home is their most precious and valuable asset. If you’re spending a lot of money and putting your home in the hands of others, you want to ensure that you choose the right people for the job. Look for experts that specialize in projects that are relevant to you and read reviews and testimonials. If you love modern home design concepts and you’re eager to freshen up a traditional house, look for architects that have experience in this field. If you dream of adding an extension with a bright modern kitchen with bi-fold doors overlooking the garden, for example, browse portfolios and look at examples of previous work. Choose building firms that are highly-rated and make sure they have the relevant accreditation and insurance cover. It’s worth spending time comparing quotes. The lowest price may not necessarily represent the best value for money.
Finishing touches and personalization
For most of us, our homes are not just bricks and mortar. If you’re sprucing up your home, it’s natural to want to make it unique and to create a space that is personal to you. As well as getting involved in design plans and choosing colors and materials, focus on the finer details that will make your home different and special.
Are you ready to renovate your home? Before you take the next step, make sure you work through this checklist!