If you’re considering a home renovation, you likely know that it can add value to your home, improve its functionality, and create a more comfortable living environment for you and your family. But the journey from start to finish is often long and complex. Before starting any project, it’s essential to understand the basics of what goes into a home renovation so that you can plan accordingly and avoid any costly surprises. Realtor and author Laurel Jonas has provided a quick guide to set you up for success!
What Type of Renovation?
With so many options, it can be challenging to determine what type of renovation to embark on. Here are a few renovation ideas that can boost the value and comfort of your home:
Home Office: The rise of remote work and people’s desire for an organized workspace in their homes has caused home offices to rise in popularity. The typical home office consists of a desk, chair, filing cabinets, bookshelves, and other items that foster productivity. If you go this route, it’s essential to design your office so that you have plenty of space to work and store all your items. You’ll also want adequate lighting (including natural light, if possible) and multipurpose furniture to maximize your space. Add a sleeper sofa and storage ottoman, and your office can even double as a guestroom!
Kitchen Remodel: Kitchen renovations bring some of the highest ROI according to Remodeling Magazine, but they require you to consider many elements — including countertops, cabinetry hardware, flooring, and others. The size and layout of your kitchen will play an integral role in choosing the materials you use, so be strategic at every step of the process.
Bathroom Addition: Tabor Design Build notes that adding a second bathroom can provide more privacy when entertaining guests or growing your family. One of the most critical factors is selecting fixtures and finishes that tie together nicely with your home’s existing decor, especially if you plan on installing new features like heated floors or motion-activated lighting systems.
The Renovation Process in Three Phases
As you decide which type of home renovation to pursue, start preparing for what the process might look like. Here’s a quick breakdown of a typical renovation in three phases:
Phase 1
First, you’ll need to determine the scope of work necessary by defining the project budget and researching potential materials and fixtures. Then, choose licensed and experienced designers and contractors who can make the process significantly smoother. Contractors typically use construction software and apps that help streamline operations, such as construction takeoff and estimating software. This technology is a key to success when it comes to accurately – and quickly – generating estimates based on material and labor costs, and project timelines are included. You’ll also want to get any permits and licenses required by local authorities before beginning any work.
Phase 2
Deadlines are typically tight regarding renovations, which is why it’s so important to monitor your progress weekly to ensure no major snags arise between contractors or among different sub-trades involved in executing specific phases of the project. Don’t hesitate to ask questions to keep everyone on track while giving insight into potential decisions; you may need to compromise to stay within the budget or timeline.
Phase 3
After the primary construction work has been done on your home renovation, you’ll be able to put the final touches on your project by adding light fixtures, installing insulation, painting walls, hanging artwork, etc. Then, you can expect the final safety checks, inspection, and energy audit to confirm nothing was overlooked and that your home is move-in ready.
Will You Get a Home Warranty?
Many homeowners choose to purchase a home warranty after a home renovation. Generally, a home warranty provides coverage for repairs and replacement of major systems and appliances in your home. It can save you money and provide peace of mind should something break down unexpectedly.
That said, you’ll want to be aware of any exclusions and the types of services that are included in the plan before signing up with a provider. Also, you should prepare for the cost of a home warranty and weigh it against its potential value before making a decision.
Renovating your home can bring significant benefits in terms of property value, indoor environment, and other factors. Remember to consider designing a home office, getting a home warranty, and following the other tips above. The better you prepare now, the smoother and more successful your home-improvement journey will be!
Year after year, Realtor and author Laurel Jonas of Northwest Realty Group sells millions of dollars in real estate by making her clients needs a top priority. Team up with Laurel today by calling 208-758-9000!
