Thinking of Renovating?
It can be so overwhelming to even think about. According to House Beautiful, here are a few pro tips to start your journey (or see if you even want to start this particular journey or spend the summer in France:)))
HAVE TO HAVE 3 OVENS AND A ZEN GARDEN?
The first step in any renovation is to identify the essentials, what’s definitively required, then make a second wish list of nice-to-haves. Be honest. Having this agreed upon prior to starting takes a lot of stress out of the process.
NOBODY APPRECIATES INSULATING THE HOUSE AND THEN PAYING FOR THE TEAM TO COME BACK TOGETHER TO INSULATE THE GARAGE 6 MONTHS LATER.
Doing things all at once is more efficient than doing different projects piecemeal.
KNOW WHAT THE TOTAL PICTURE IS AND GIVE YOUR BUDGET A CONTINGENT OF AT LEAST 10%
Contractors typically charge 10-20% of the overall cost of the project. Architects bill 8-20% on top of the total project budget. Know what the pro's charge and at what level. Will you need to live somewhere while renovating? Add that to your budget...
DIY?
WHAT COULD YOU DO YOURSELF WITHOUT SACRIFICING QUALITY?
And, let’s be real-do you have the time in your calendar to devote to doing it without taking away from your normal family life?
HIRE THE RIGHT TEAM/PEOPLE WITH GOOD, RECENT REFERENCES. CHEAP CAN BE EXPENSIVE.
A combination of a shared vision, experience and knowledge of the latest materials and sources for the materials…
ASK FOR A REALTOR’S HELP…
Evaluate the cost of the renovation versus a move or rebuilding from scratch-start with average per square foot pricing in your area and the cost of moving.
HAVE FUN!
Finally (as a builder’s daughter, this one is from me) are you the type that can enjoy this process or will your relationships suffer?
No physical building is worth alienating the important people in your life.