Renovating a home is different when that home is part of a condominium complex. You’re limited in some of the possibilities based on the location of the space as well as the fact that neighbors are so close. These problems wouldn’t be the same in a home detached from other buildings. Alair Homes North Island offers the following steps to take when renovating your condo.

Condo Board Rules

Before you can even begin to start your remodeling or renovation project, you have to learn what kind of rules the condominium board has in place. They’ll have policies regarding the length of renovations, what time of day construction can take place and how materials and workers can enter the building. You can have serious problems if you violate the condominium board’s rules.

Potential Occupants

When you’re renovating for yourself, you might make certain choices for materials, but not if you were renovating for renters. If you’re renovating for resale, you might not add the pretty hardware or expensive details you would for your own enjoyment of the home.

Renovation Limits

Know what kind of limits you have for the interior space. In a condominium unit, you might not be able to tear down walls or remove columns because they’re vital to the structure of the building.

Structuring the Space

The kitchen and bathroom are pretty limited when it comes to moving the plumbing. The sinks, toilet and shower are in a place that might not allow relocation. It’s vital that you choose fixtures that will give you the space you require when you can’t move the plumbing.

Photo by Alair Homes North IslandLook for kitchen design inspiration

Add Rich Details

You might not be able to tear down walls and remove structural elements, but you can certainly add details to the space. Crown moldings and chair rails give texture to a space that is lacking. There might be elements you can disguise with your moldings too.

Lighting Fixtures

Many condo units have cement ceilings for firewall protection between units. This means that you’ll have a hard time drilling into the ceiling, but many have drop ceilings that can be added to change the look of the ceiling and light fixtures.

Paint for Your Tastes

Don’t be afraid to paint in a color that you love. If you want to sell at a later date, you can always pick up a few gallons of paint to make a transformation before the sale. You’ll like the space more if it’s designed for your own tastes from the beginning.

Hire a Designer

A designer can help you make difficult decisions, work with the board’s rules and hide ugly flaws like columns that can’t be moved. A professional knows a ton of tricks to working within a condominium environment too.

Be Design Flexible

You can’t be locked into wanting a certain design when you are renovating a condominium unit. You might not be able to fit that large dining table or as much cabinet storage as you think you’ll need.

Leave the Unit

During renovation, it’s a good idea to find another place to live. Whether it’s staying with friends, at a hotel or with family, it’ll be better for you to be gone during serious construction.

Renovating a condo requires patience and planning, but it can run smoothly if you budget appropriately and stay flexible. Contact Alair Homes North Island if you have any questions about renovating your condominium.