5 Simple Ways To Prepare For A Home Renovation

Article by guest author – Alice Robertson

Embarking on home renovations is exciting, but it involves a lot of paperwork, coordination, and expense. To prepare for renovating your home, consider these tips…

Possible Renovation Projects

Homeowners may consider various home renovation projects, whether to increase their property value or make the home feel cozier. Your motivation will impact your choice of renovations and the budget necessary.

Though a home remodel can earn a return on investment if you decide to sell, budgeting carefully is essential before starting a project. Consider how much you plan to spend on renovations before seeking a contractor to begin the project.

For example, replacing the windows in your home might be a budget-friendly way to save on energy costs. Other common renovations include kitchen remodeling, flooring updates, and roofing projects. While planning projects, consider whether any cosmetic upgrades will impact the plumbing or electric systems; this can involve additional permits and costs.

How to Hire the Best Contractor

The right contractor is a necessity when planning home renovations. Homeowners need a reliable contractor with relevant experience for the best project outcome possible. To hire the right contractor, research and ask plenty of questions.

Start by verifying the contractor’s professional license to ensure they are legitimate. Asking questions about the contractor’s past projects will tell you whether they are a good fit for your project.

Many contractors have portfolios for past projects, such as before and after pictures, and will be happy to discuss their experience. Watch out for red flags like contractors being late to meetings, not returning calls, and refusing to provide references.

Know Contractor Software

Keeping well-informed ensures that your home renovation goes off without a hitch. Knowing what to expect from your contractor is a big part of a successful project.

Many contractors use software for project planning, cost estimation, and more. For example, with estimating software made for electricians, a contractor may create customized templates, send estimates, and accept online payments.

While software and project estimates help accurately predict your project costs and timelines, keep in mind that things can change. Both supply chain issues and inflation can make renovations more costly, at no fault of your contractor.

Design a Home Office

If a home office addition is on the agenda for your home improvement project, plan carefully to make the most of it. Creating an office that doubles as a guest room serves dual purposes and gives you a comfortable workspace at home.

Investing in furniture that does double duty, such as a sleeper sofa and storage ottoman, offers flexibility. Decor like a full-length mirror helps the space feel larger than it is.

If you work from home, some expenses involved in your home office may also qualify as tax deductions, says the US Chamber of Commerce, which may offset some of the renovation costs.

Check for Permits

Hiring a contractor typically means they handle everything for you throughout the renovations. However, keeping up with the project details can help avoid issues later.

For example, many projects require permits, depending on the state, city, and other laws and ordinances. Projects that might require a permit include roof replacement, electrical projects, and room additions.

Though your contractor will likely apply for permits on your behalf, read your contract thoroughly before work begins. If your contractor skips this step, you may have to pay fines and stop work on the project. Staying up to date with project progress ensures you don’t miss any details.

Renovating your home is a significant undertaking, but with the right contractor, things will go more smoothly. Whether you’re creating a home office or remodeling your kitchen, proper planning and knowing what to expect to make the experience easier.

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