If you turn on HGTV or the DIY Network, house flipping, home staging, and fixer uppers are inspiring people every day with interior design and great remodeling ideas. However, when it comes to taking on a home renovation project, you need to ask yourself, "Am I remodel ready?"
Whether you're buying a fixer upper to make your dream home or you're remodeling to sell, there are a few things you need to think about that can make all the difference with your project.
We recently had the pleasure of working with Lindsay Benton and Jennifer Helton of Helbent Properties, an up and coming remodeling team, on a home renovation project in South Huntsville. Together, we'll share some tips that will help to ensure the success of your project and hopefully make the process little easier.
1. Get a basic plan together Whether you're giving your home a cosmetic face-lift or it's a complete gut-job like Lindsay and Jennifer took on, you need a plan for the entire scope of the project. Both small and large remodel jobs require lots of decisions like paint colors, flooring, countertops, lighting, and fixtures. So having a project plan in place ahead of time will help save time and money in the long run.
2. Consider the style of the home
When remodeling a home, you need to take into consideration the style and layout of the existing structure. You want to add transitional styles that both compliment and add to the value of the home without taking away from the original design.
3. Determine a budget
Once you have a basic plan, you can begin putting together the budget. Lindsay and Jennifer suggest setting aside at least 20% of the budget for unforeseen expenses. "We learned that the hard way... no matter how much planning you do in advance."
4. Remodel by the rules
They also suggest contacting your city or municipality to determine what permits are required and when you'll need them. "Most projects require a city permit and you can be fined for doing the work without it, even if you're the homeowner," says Jennifer.
5. Get quotes
According to the Helbent Team, "When pricing a service, always get at least three quotes and remember the cheapest is not always the best. Only use contractors who are licensed, insured, and that have a good reputation and always obtain copies of their license and insurance prior to beginning any work."
6. Research your local real estate market
Know what local homebuyers are looking for in a home prior to your remodel, even if you don't plan to sell in the immediate future. Lindsay suggests, "Buying the most expensive and trendy lighting, installing the most expensive floors or adding over-the-top amenities, won't translate to extra dollars in your pocket down the road. Go for functional spaces, maximize storage, and choose quality products that make the most sense."
And of course, when in doubt, consult a professional. DIY projects are a great way to save money, but you'll save more money in the long run by hiring someone before you make a costly mistake.
For information about the Hellbent Team or questions with this article, contact Haley's at 256.536.8086.