How to save money on a home remodel
After years of living in the same home for many years or right after moving in, sometimes a home just needs to be remodeled. Maybe the kitchen is just a little outdated or isn't functional for a changing family. Maybe the bathroom was neglected by the previous owners and needs to be redone. It is understood that remodeling a room or section of a house is going to cost money, but it can be easy to get carried away. Here are a few tips on how to save money when doing a home remodel.
Prioritize
At the beginning of a remodeling project, sometimes it is easy to want to make tremendous changes. However, some changes, while possible, just aren't very cost effective and will end up causing more problems than they are worth. For example, avoid moving entire walls, putting in new windows, or moving a tub from where the drain is to where there isn't a drain. These types of large construction remodels end up costing extra. Instead, look at the space available as a puzzle. How can the space be remodeled without costly changes?
Recycle Materials
When remodeling a bathroom or kitchen, sometimes it is tempting to just throw everything away and start from scratch. While this is obviously an option, it doesn't hurt to take a look at parts of the kitchen or bathroom that may be salvageable. For example, maybe there is a mirror in the bathroom that is in an ugly frame. There is no need to throw away the mirror, just replace the frame. Or, maybe the knobs on the cabinets in the kitchen are modern or attractive. Will those knobs work on the new cabinets? Finding small ways to recycle materials will end up saving money in a remodel project.
Budget
Sticking to a budget when remodeling can be sometimes difficult because of unexpected problems or impulse upgrades. When creating a budget, be sure to know exactly which upgrades that are wanted and what sacrifices will be made to accommodate those upgrades. For example, in order to replace old kitchen appliances with top of the line appliances, one might need to get a lower grade wood for cabinets. Also, when laying out the budget, set aside a certain amount for unexpected expenses. Maybe the floor under the tub has been compromised by water damage, or maybe when removing the cabinets in the kitchen part of the wall comes loose. Planning for these unexpected expenses will ensure the project stays in budget.
Contract Responsibly
When possible, one will almost always save money by doing the work on a home remodel without help. However, if a contractor is needed, make sure to do the homework necessary to hire a qualified contractor. Ask friends and family for contractors that have helped them in the past. Or, search out a different contractor. No matter which contractor is used, be sure to specifically outline exactly what work will be performed, the amount of time it is expected to take, and how much it will all cost on paper before signing anything.
It can be difficult to save money on a home remodeling project when a plan has not been created. However, saving money on a remodeling project is easy with a little prioritizing, recycling, budgeting, doing what is possible without help, and then hiring responsible and qualified help when needed.
Like this article? Then Digg It
or
add it to your Del.icio.us Bookmarks!
Tags: home remodel save money remodeling project recycle bathroom kitchen budget upgrades contractors
