You love your home, but you hate the tile the previous owner installed. Renovating a home is about making it yours. They say a home is never finished because there is always something else to fix. Before you pick up the phone to call Ziegler Remodeling to get our sledgehammers ready, take into consideration the biggest mistakes homeowners make before starting their renovation.
1. BUYING CHEAP MATERIALS TO CUT CORNERS
You get what you pay for. Really. If you decide to cut corners and buy something a little less quality, then it will cost you in the long run. Spending a few extra dollars for high-quality flooring will save you big time. You can expect many years of wear and tear before even considering having to replace your flooring again. If you opt for the cheap stuff, you'll be looking to pull out your wallet again before you know it.
2. IGNORING LIGHTING
The right lighting can change any room. The ambiance can go from dark and homey to bright and sunny. Take into consideration the use of the room you are renovating like your kitchen. You’ll need a little extra lighting especially if you are making something like coq au vin for the first time. Imagine reading the recipe with dim lighting. It will end up in disaster.
Think about how you plan to use the room. If it's a bedroom, then dim lighting will set the tone when it's time for bed or your bathroom will need extra lighting, so you don't question what you look like before leaving your home. Use the natural lighting from the outside wisely with great windows. A little vitamin D is great for the soul.
3. GETTING TOO TRENDY
Any renovation is no small project. Bringing contractors into your home, the countless hours of noise from their power tools, and your life is turned upside down. When you are done renovating, you will want to enjoy your home for as long as possible before investing your sanity and money for another renovation.
When choosing the outcome for your home, steer away from something too trendy. Just like polyester bell bottoms, it will be out of style before you can throw up a peace sign. A renovation is no small feat. Pick a design that is timeless which you won't want to change for quite a while. Getting bright, lime green tile is probably a good idea at the time, but can you live with it for 5 or 10 years? If the answer is no, then opt for something a little more classic.
4. NOT INVESTING IN SUSTAINABLE OPTIONS
Technology continues to improve on windows, roofs, alarm systems, and more. Choosing smart options for your home is great for sustainability. Windows and doors that are energy efficient will keep your utility bill down and so will wireless products on the market that connect directly to your smartphone. By investing in more sustainable options, the extra dollars spent on the double paned window will pay you back. Existing single-family homes around the U.S. can reduce energy waste by installing insulation, sealing air and duct leaks and upgrading to more efficient lighting by 245,000 GWh by the year 2042.
5. NOT DOING YOUR HOMEWORK- HIRING THE WRONG CONTRACTOR
Word of mouth is the best form of marketing. If you’re sifting through Yelp to find a contractor to renovate your home, you might be in for a surprise. Your home is an intimate place, and you should only let those who respect your space to enter. Do your research before even letting a contractor into your home.
Our team at Ziegler Remodeling has several references if you are not sure you are ready to take the leap. Check out our project gallery to see the work we’ve done.
6. TAKING ON MORE THAN YOU CAN HANDLE
One project at a time. There's nothing worse than waking up in a home full of sawdust and plastic barriers. You dream of a perfect home. It will get there but take on one project at a time. Taking on more than you can drive your stress levels through the roof. It's not only better for your sanity but also your pocketbook. By giving yourself some time between projects, you can save more for quality materials, and you will have the opportunity to enjoy the last renovation before jumping into your next.
7. OVERBUILDING FOR YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD
In anticipation for the big overhaul of your home, you imagined a grand, castle like entrance. If the homes in your neighborhood are priced around $250,000, then consider a renovation that is going to pay you back. Installing the $100,000 bathroom with the waterfall showers is a very good idea in theory, however, when you do sell your home, it is not going to jump up in value. The selling price of your home is partially based on the homes in your neighborhood.
8. SETTING AN UNREALISTIC BUDGET
As it is important not to cut corners on the quality of products, it’s equally as important to know your budget before starting the project. Renovations can have hiccups along the way so it’s best to be prepared for any situation that may come up. When working with a team like Ziegler Remodeling, you will receive up to date information on what to expect before any part of your home is gutted.
Your home is intimate to you and your family. Updating your bathroom or kitchen is an exciting time especially if you like the smell of new appliances. Something about that just off the floor, like new, clean look is intoxicating. But before you decide to renovate your home, consider the road blocks that may be ahead.
If you have any questions regarding hurdles you will encounter before starting any renovation, contact the Ziegler Remodeling. We are more than happy to answer any of your concerns. As a courtesy, we offer a free in-home, no obligation consultations. Contact us today to learn more!
