Considerations For Homeowners Before Remodeling Their Home

Remodeling your home is an invigorating experience. It’s also a major project to take on that requires time, planning, and funds. Even with experience, each project brings in its own twists and complications. 

We consulted with the experts to bring you the top essential considerations before you embark on your remodeling project.

Don’t Over-Estimate the End-Result from the Blueprint

“Don’t assume that blueprints will show you what a remodel will look like. All too often, clients find themselves disappointed at the end of a home model because the final result does not live up to what they thought they were getting when looking at the original blueprints. If you do not have to read blueprints regularly, you likely will not understand how they will translate to real life. People tend to be over-optimistic in their estimation of how blueprints will be executed. Where possible you want to layout the design of each room of your home before work begins so you can get a real life’s view of what the final result will be like.”

Volodymyr Barabakh, Co-founder & Project Director Fortress Home

Hire a Professional

“Most people think they can figure things out themselves – and perhaps some can – but you risk low-quality work and long-term problems. Some DIYers think they’re saving money, but if your work doesn’t last and you need to replace it a few years down the road, you lose money in the long run. And lastly, look for task specialists for each aspect of your job rather than hiring a general contractor. Again, it might be pricey, but will save you money in the long run.”

Brooks Manley is Lead Editor and Design Specialist at Fifti Fifti

Design Choice That Add Value

“A home remodeling project is a great way for a homeowner to customize their home according to their taste and comfort. However, it is important from an investment perspective to make design choices that will add the most value.

“Kitchens and bathrooms are the big-ticket items to consider when planning a remodel as improvements in these areas generally add the most monetary value. To get the most return on your investment, avoid over-improving by selecting fixtures, countertops, appliances, and flooring that match the price point of homes in the area and would appeal to the widest range of future buyers. Working from this perspective may save you from installing that pink tile in the bathroom!”

Anne Laurenzi is the Co-Owner of Take Flight Home Buyers in Northwest Florida and Author of the Roller Coaster Real Estate blog.

Consider Re-doing Your Floors

“Choose your flooring first, and don’t scrimp on quality! Flooring is always on display; invest in a product that adds value to the design and can bear the brunt of your day-to-day. Unfortunately, neither rugs, furniture, nor home décor can divert your guests’ attention from trendy flooring that has worn out prematurely. Instead, opt for high-quality, long-lasting flooring that will stand the test of time. You may spend a little extra upfront, but it will save you money in the long run.”

Ben Thompson, the CEO of Hardwood Bargains

Environmental Factors

“One area I see people fail to factor in time and time again is the environment around them when considering a remodel project. By this, it could mean anything from ensuring you have adequate shaded areas and appropriate cooling and ventilation to more serious structural considerations of the surrounding environment such as sea air or risk of frost. 

Sometimes, these modifications can be costly, but if you fail to approach them correctly, can lead to huge problems down the line. I always recommend anyone looking at remodeling to fully understand what their options are before initiating work.”

Cathryn Bailey, Founder at Bomisch.com

Consult A Real Estate Agent

“I would recommend consulting with a real estate agent before getting started with a remodeling project. A real estate agent can help you to decide how to best use your budget when planning your renovations. For instance, they can provide you with information about recent home sales in the area. They are also knowledgeable about features that buyers tend to look for when purchasing a home. And they know what remodeling projects will provide a good return on your investment.”

Tyler Forte is the Co-Founder & CEO of Felix Homes

Time To Invest

“I think it is important for homeowners to consider how much time they have to invest in the project. For example, even if you hire a company to do the construction work, you will still need to take time away from work, family, and friends to select materials, prep your home for construction, and perform site walks with the construction team. Homeowners need to take some time to consider the impact on their day-to-day lives. Living in a home that is under construction can be stressful. If you are newly married, pregnant, or planning to become pregnant or have a new job – you may want to postpone a large project until life has stabilized a little bit. Before you even pick up the phone to call a designer or an architect, you should have a list of everything you love and hate about your home as it sits today. Create a list of what you want and what you need. Definitely have a not-to-exceed budget in mind before you sign on the dotted line.”

Nicole Crocker has been in the construction industry for over 25 years and is the producer of a new home improvement television show called California Contractor.

Consider if it’s Worth it

“As a remodeling contractor, one of the most fulfilling and challenging experiences a homeowner can have is remodeling their house. There are numerous things to consider before deciding to remodel your home, including whether the project is even worthwhile. Consider how long you will be out of your house while you remodel it, think if you are ready or rental expenses as you are sleeping out while your home is getting renovated. Calculate the cost. Be prepared for future problems and Oh no incidents that can happen throughout the renovation.”

Geoff Cash, Founder at Refresh Remodeling