If you’re faced with several unmistakable signs it’s time to sell your home or you simply want to breathe new life into your property, you might consider some remodeling. Renovating a house to sell is generally a good idea because it gives it a fresh look. And, that’s super important because buyers form an impression of a property within 7 to 10 seconds of seeing it. What’s more, only one out of ten people can imagine a space other than the way it’s presented. But, if you do opt for a small makeover, it’s important to avoid the most common home improvement mistakes.
Avoid these Common Home Improvement Mistakes
Hiring a contractor is typically a smart move, especially if you’re not particularly confident about your do-it-yourself skills. You should always get quotes from at least three licensed professionals and check out their portfolios. Be sure to do a little research before making a commitment, like checking the local clerk of court records and the local Better Business Bureau. In addition, peruse each estimate to know precisely what is and isn’t included.
“Remodeling a home is more stressful for many people than buying one. Budget woes, problems with contractors and even relationship issues plague homeowners looking to remodel. Nearly half of remodelers went over budget. With that much money at risk, and that level of disruption to your home, no wonder remodeling is the most stressful thing a homeowner can do.” —CBS News
Once you have established a realistic budget, complete with a 10 to 15 percent contingency fund, you should settle on what you want and stick to it. Changing your mind after the work has started will cost you big time. Discuss your project in detail so everyone is aware of your expectations. But, if you are only doing some light remodeling and can handle it on your own, that’s a great way to save money. However, you still need to avoid the following common home improvement mistakes:
- Buying cheap materials. It’s understandable you want to keep expenses low but don’t compromise on quality. Instead, reduce quantity to rein in costs and that will cause you to focus on what’s really most important. If you purchase cheap materials, the whole project will be jeopardized and won’t last as long as it should. Quality materials will not only look better, but perform better and last much longer.
- Not bringing hardware with you. If you’re repainting kitchen cabinets, swapping out faucets, or doing anything with hardware, be sure to bring it with you to the hardware or home improvement store. It’s better than taking measurements, even better than pictures. This way, you’ll be able to compare hardware so you know that it will fit. It’s also good to do this because you might receive some unexpected but thoughtful suggestions.
- Skipping the necessary prep work. One of the most dull and tedious parts of remodeling is the prep work. It’s not exciting and certainly won’t be in plain sight when the project is finished. But, skipping the necessary prep work will have a profound and unwelcome impact. Since it’s the foundation of the improvement if you rush through it, don’t expect a great looking and functioning result.
- Going way too trendy or over-customizing. Some homeowners really like certain styles that are out of the mainstream. They find them kitschy, cute, and irresistible. But it’s just a bad decision because it’s going to be a big buyer objection when it comes time to resell. Resist the temptation to go trendy or over-customize and you’ll definitely be thankful later.
- Over improving your property for the neighborhood. If you really want to make a big change, do so only if it comports with the neighborhood. Going too big will undermine the property value and make it difficult to sell in the future. Your over-improved house will simply be priced out of the neighborhood and that’s not a good scenario.
If you are thinking about remodeling to sell your home in Orlando, don’t hesitate to contact us with any questions.