Struggling to remodel your home? Here are 5 quick, smart tips to make your design dreams a reality.
Coordinating your furniture or envisioning your friends and loved ones in your new kitchen or family room helps make the remodeling process fun, exciting, and even personal. However, changing your designs from a dream to a reality requires good planning, communication, and a good team. These tips below can help you effectively manage your project and create something that perfectly suits your lifestyle.
Plan Wisely
Early product selections can prevent delays later on. When you envision your new space, take note of what you see and the prices. This can prevent going over budget and help your team obtain materials quickly. Also, create a schedule if you are working with several contractors so everyone is aware of what will be happening on site.
Don’t be afraid to be specific
Breaking each section of the house into subsections helps create a clear vision for the contractors. Instead of simply mentioning bathroom tile, mention how much of the wall you would like covered. Taking specific measurements helps contractors plan and gives you time to think your plans through.
Get an estimate
When you have a detailed plan, submit that information to contractors for an estimate of the cost and the time. Having the detailed plan will help ensure that your estimate is as close to the actual price as possible. Also, search for a company that will factor in almost every item on your list in their estimate. For example, at Alair Homes the estimate is all-inclusive so you have the most realistic expectation of the price. Most contractors omit certain components in the beginning to seem more appealing, but the costs pile up once the construction begins. Select the most honest and inclusive estimate you can find and adjust your budget accordingly.
Communicate your vision clearly
Once you choose your contractor, do not assume that they can see your dream room the way you do. You may feel redundant, but oftentimes in doing so they are able to catch the details in your vision that you didn’t think to mention in your plans. Many contractors say that the happiest customers are the ones who are the most detailed with what they want. Don’t be afraid to speak up!
Factor in Contingencies
Remember that no matter how much planning you do, there will almost always be a curveball. When the contractors begin your project, certain issues may arise. This is why it’s ideal to have a contingency fund of about 10-15% of your budget. If you aren’t careful, a support beam that isn’t up to code or a need for new insulation can derail your entire project. Keep some money aside to ensure that no matter what your house throws your way, you are prepared. This will prevent stress for all parties involved.
If you are still concerned about taking it on yourself, then consider hiring a project manager to help you. There will be a fee, but compared to the cost of a poorly managed project, it can save you a lot of time and disappointment overall. Professionals can take care of everything, and their knowledge will help you rest easy.