The biggest mistake you can make when it comes to remodeling your home is just to think about it but not take any action. One reason you might want to do a makeover is that you want to sell your home. Another reason is that you have a clear idea of what needs to be improved.
Although you might be reluctant to act, hesitating over spending the time and investing the money, remodeling your home is something that you won’t regret.
If you’re selling the house, the added value will make it easier to sell at a higher price, and you’ll also provide the new family with a nicer home.
And if you’re not going anywhere for a while, your home improvements will fill you with a sense of deep satisfaction.
The renovations you choose will depend on your reasons for doing it. You’ll make different choices when remodeling for a sale then if you’re remodeling for home improvement.
Remodeling for a Sale
If you’re selling your house, remodeling the kitchen and the bathrooms will have the biggest impression on potential buyers. You won’t increase the perceived value of your home by taking care of minor repair issues.
The Kitchen
The first thing most homeowners think about when it comes to remodeling the kitchen is changing the kitchen cabinets. Usually, it’s rarely because they’ve suffered wear and tear over the years. Rather, compared to some of the more modern designs now available, they seem almost antediluvian.
When reviewing a list of companies who can do good work, it’s best to find one that’s been in business a long time. They know what they’re doing because they hire the best designers, and they’re also affordable, charging competitive rates. Gilman’s Kitchen and Bath custom cabinets, who have built a reputation in the kitchen and bathroom remodeling industry over a span of 35 years, are an example of a company that offers a wonderful line of custom and semi-custom cabinets.
Other changes to consider remodeling are the floors, the countertops, and the appliances.
The Bathrooms
There is quite a bit you can do to jazz up the master bathroom. For instance, if you’re aiming for a Contemporary bathroom style, you could add a freestanding tub, lovely hexagonal mirrors, or dark wood vanities. For smaller bathrooms, think about ways to improve the lighting or opting for an all-white color palette to give your bathroom a new look.
Remodeling for Improvement
If you’re remodeling for your own satisfaction, then a project-based approach will work well.
One way to get an accurate assessment of what needs attention is to hire a licensed home inspector to check the whole house. Among other things, he or she will notice any problems with heating and air conditioning, plumbing, and electrical systems.
Since air conditioning problems could result in mold growth, it’s something you should fix before it becomes a health hazard. Plumbing problems result in leaky fixtures and higher water bills because plumbing components wear away due to water pressure and usage. And even if you don’t have any noticeable electrical problems, you may want to switch to energy efficient appliances with an Energy Star rating to reduce your electric bills.
Here are some other projects to consider when it comes to home improvement:
- Replace doors and windows that don’t shut properly. Installing solid doors and double-glazed windows will improve indoor temperature control.
- Paint the interior and exterior of the house for a refreshing new look.
- Replace flooring if necessary and consider using wood as it adds a nice touch to any home.
- Improve curb appeal by re-landscaping front and back lawns.
Remodeling your home may appear to be an expensive proposition, but this is an illusion. If you’re selling your home, then you’ll get your money back. And if you’re improving it, you’ll uncover any hidden health or safety hazards and slash your monthly bills.