Following some key steps in renovating a house is important for a good result. Careful planning should always be the first step in any home renovation project. When it comes to tips for renovating an entire house, planning, budgeting, getting permits and choosing contractors are crucial areas.
Planning a house renovation is something that shouldn't be rushed. Starting with a clear reason for a house renovation guides the decision making in the right direction. For example, if a homeowner's main purpose in renovating is to create more space for a growing family, then each room can be planned in terms of how to reach that overall goal. Interviewing people who have recently completed or are in the middle of renovating their house is a great tip because doing this may help a new renovator avoid mistakes that could increase renovation costs. Budgeting carefully during the planning stage of renovating a house is essential, and a log book with estimated and actual costs should be kept throughout the project.
A helpful tip when choosing building experts and contractors is to not only go by price and experience alone, but to actually contact their references and ask relevant questions about skill and service. Most contractors will also be able to provide before and after photographs of house renovations they've completed. If the project is renovating a ranch house, then it's best to find a contractor experienced in doing just that — with satisfied clients and before and after photos to prove it. When renovating a house, the end result is crucial since only a successful renovation will increase a home's market value. Of course, homeowners don't want to go through the time and expense involved only to end up with a house renovation they literally can't live with.
Renovating a house typically takes longer than even the most careful planning can estimate, so one of the best tips for homeowners involved in a renovation is to make plans for extra living accommodations so they’ll be prepared if delays do occur. Enough time should be allowed to include delays in getting building or plumbing permits, as well as time in finding additional experts in these areas. If structural renovations are planned, architects and additional permits are likely to be required.
Another great tip when renovating a house is to think "updated" rather than "trendy" in terms of design. If the cost of renovating a house is spent on creating a trendy look, it only means that more money will be needed when that look becomes outdated, and this is not likely to increase the property value. Trendy style can easily be added with furnishings and accessories, so architectural features, kitchens and bathrooms should be updated for a modern appeal that goes beyond up-to-the-minute trends.
