Home Improvement — also known as remodeling, fixing or renovating your house or condo — is a popular activity that can make you feel more comfortable in your home and increase its resale value. But, there are some renovations that you should avoid in order to get the most out of your investment.
1. Don’t Overspend
While it’s tempting to splurge on home improvements, it’s important to set a budget before you start any project. Not only will it help you stay within your means, but you may be able to save money on materials that you don’t need.
2. Don’t Go Into Debt
One of the biggest mistakes people make when they plan to improve their homes is going into debt for the project. This can lead to serious problems when it comes time to pay off the renovations.
3. Choose Projects That Will Help You Reach Your Goals
When you decide to remodel your home, it’s important to think about what you want it to do and how it will benefit you. This is especially true if you plan to sell your house in the future. You can get the best return on your investments by choosing projects that will increase your resale value, attract buyers and enhance your overall quality of life.
4. Select the Right Materials
Many homeowners choose materials for their renovations without really thinking about the costs. This can lead to expensive finishes that don’t match the rest of your house, or poor choices that require costly repairs down the line.
5. Know Your Contractor
When hiring a contractor for your home improvement project, like siding, bathroom, or kitchen remodeling professionals, it’s a good idea to have a written contract that clearly outlines the work to be done and what types of materials will be used. You’ll also want to include a timeline for the completion of the project, as well as any warranties that may apply to the materials or workmanship.
6. Take Note Of Your Neighbors’ Renovations
When renovating your home, it’s important to look around at the local housing market and see what other homeowners have done to their homes. You’ll be able to get an idea of what kinds of house renovations are most popular and have the best resale value.
7. Do Your Homework
When it comes to a home improvement project, it’s important to research the contractor and ensure they are licensed, bonded and insured. This will protect you from fraud and other problems down the road.
8. Ask For Proof Of Insurance
The contractor you hire should have a general liability and workers compensation policy in place. These will protect you from liability if something happens to someone else during the course of the renovation.
9. Get Your Contract In Writing
It’s a good idea to have specialized contracts for your home improvement project, such as a general contract or a building contract. This will ensure that both parties are clear on what will be done and when it will be completed.
If you are planning home improvement projects, it is important to be aware of the potential mistakes you could possibly make. Even the most seasoned DIYers can make costly errors, but seven common mistakes you should be sure to avoid if you’re engaging in any home improvement task. Here are seven mistakes to keep in mind:
1. Not Planning for the Future: While it may be tempting to simply stick to the bare minimum of an essential task, it’s important to keep future upgrades in mind. Planning ahead allows you to scour product reviews, adjust costs and find ways to up the value of your home in the long run.
2. Not Choosing the Right Material: Many overlook the importance of selecting the right type of material when performing a certain task. However, this is crucial in terms of efficiency and cost. Research the best type of material for specific projects, and always opt for a higher quality product if your budget allows.
3. Choosing the Cheapest Product: On the other hand, picking out the least expensive product imaginable is another mistake to avoid. In the home improvement world, you often get what you pay for. Looking for deals on high-end products is the best way to get value for your money.
4. Doing Everything Yourself: Trying to take on every aspect of home improvement on your own is a mistake. Even the most proficient DIYers should enlist the help of professionals when it comes to major projects. Professional installation will last longer and save you headaches along the way.
5. Not Comparing Prices: Before purchasing a product, take the time to research retailers and look for the best deals. Often times you will find notable differences in pricing, and even if you don’t, it’s worth double checking before making your purchase.
6. Forgetting About Safety: Make sure to adhere to safety protocols while proceeding with home improvement projects. A disaster resulting from lack of safety precautions can be expensive, especially if it ends up involving medical attention.
7. Not Thinking About Resale Value: Keep the value of your home in mind when making changes. Some home improvement projects may not be the best choice if you envision selling your home in the near future.
By avoiding these seven common home improvement mistakes, you can save yourself both time and money. Take the time to plan projects out and research the best products and deals. That way, you’ll be able to get the most out of your home improvement journey.
