Feeling intimidated by home improvement projects is normal, especially if building and construction are totally foreign concepts to you. As a major investment, you want to be prepared for everything that might come your way. The good news is a successful remodel is easier than you think. With the right planning, a reliable contractor, and positive mindset, completing your home renovation will be a breeze. Here are five tips for a successful remodeling project.
1. Set a Realistic Budget
There’s nothing wrong with having a small budget for your next remodeling project, but you do have to be realistic. When it comes to quality materials, there’s something for every price range but keep in mind these things may cost more than you expected. Having a clear picture of what things cost before starting will help you determine a budget that fits your project. Surprises can also pop up during a remodel once you begin tearing down walls and gutting kitchens, so it’s always a good idea to create a cushion in your budget to counteract any unexpected costs.
2. Pick the Right Contractor
Your contractor is the point person on your project, so when it comes to selecting the right one you’ll want to do some thorough research and vetting. Ask friends about their remodeling experiences and whether or not they would recommend the same contractor or scour the internet for client reviews. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, either! The more questions you ask, the more you’ll be able to determine if they’re the right contractor for you. It’s also important to not get too stuck on rates. Focus instead on their knowledge, testimonials, and previous projects. At the end of the day, you should hire a contractor you feel is trustworthy and has the skills necessary to get the job done.
3. Make a List of Wants Early On
Remodeling your home is an exciting experience but don’t be surprised if you start to feel some decision burnout. When that happens, making even just one more decision can leave you feeling exhausted. Making a list of everything you want early on will help ensure you don’t regret missing any of the important details later on. Whether that means having a Pinterest board dedicated to your wants or keeping it simple with a checklist, you’ll have a great resource if making selections begins to feel overwhelming.
4. Be Selective About Trends
When it comes to remodeling, the motivation is usually to refresh an outdated space. It is only natural to want to breathe new life into your space, but it’s important to not get too caught up in the abundance of trends saturating the housing industry. It can be tempting to incorporate several trends at once but we advise against it. Decking out your remodel with every last trend can result in the finished remodel looking chaotic and disjointed. Instead, choose just one or two trends that complement one another well for a tasteful finish. Mixing a more modern trend with a timeless classic will ensure you’re remodeled space doesn’t end up outdated in just a few years time.
5. Focus on Functional
It goes without saying you want the end result of your remodel to look amazing, but it should also improve the way your space functions. Consider the issues contributing to a clunky, hard to maneuver space and address them with your contractor. They’ll be able to offer solutions to problems like a bad layout and limited storage, among other things.
Ready to start planning your next remodeling project? Get in touch with our team! As a premier remodeling company in the Twin Cities area, Pratt Homes has over 45 years of experience updating our client’s homes with fresh designs. With timeless design principles and our own in-house carpenters, you’ll have peace of mind as we bring your vision to life.
