Property renovations are often as exciting as they are complicated - it’s important, therefore, to go in prepared. In this article, we’ll provide a few key pointers on what to expect and how to cut costs (and timeframes) when it comes to your latest home project.
Renovation Types
There are an endless amount of possibilities when it comes to home renovations, with the only limits being your imagination and your budget. Here are a few examples to get your mind working.
Under stairs conversions: The space under the stairs often gets relegated as a storage area for old brooms and hoovers, but with some imagination, there are all kinds of exciting ways you can utilize these handy nooks.
Garden studios: We often underutilize the space in our backyards, but there are plenty of ways to remodel sheds or open spaces that benefit creatives, craftsmen, or avid gardeners. Take a look online to spark fresh inspiration.
Home offices: A great way to boost your property value and facilitate your professional life, a home office can be easily remodeled from existing spaces or used to double up as a guest room. To create an interchangeable room, invest in a sleeper sofa, purchase a storage ottoman/cabinets or try adding a full-length mirror.
Preparation
Regardless of the scope of your project, it’s important to prepare well in advance. This means laying out monetary, logistical, and time constraints before you put hammer to nail.
Budget: Your first point of action when it comes to a renovation project is to outline a clear budget. This should include materials, licenses, utility costs, contractors, tools, and appliance of fixtures - try to factor in any unforeseen expenses that may arise during the process, such as weather events or delayed shipping.
Schedule: If you want the project to be completed in reasonable time, you’ll have to build out clear estimates and create reliable schedules that your team can refer to. Consider the scope and complexity of the project, the availability of materials/labor, and any external factors that may slow progress.
Contractors: Contractors are required to oversee and coordinate the various aspects of a renovation - this includes hiring/managing subcontractors, procuring materials, and ensuring work is completed to specified standards. Before you hire a contractor, make sure you have a written contract outlining the scope of the work, timeline, and payment terms.
Admin & Logistics
Even the most simple of renovation projects have steep admin and logistics requirements. If you want to keep things straightforward, it’s important to get out ahead of bureaucratic jobs and keep everything above water.
Permits: Most construction projects require building permits from your local municipality. Your contractor can help you with this process, but you should aim to bring into consideration any extra time spent applying for and obtaining these essential permissions.
Takeoff software: You will obviously want the most accurate bid, so consider what kind of software your contractor might be using. Many construction firms rely on construction takeoff software, which makes it easy to get precise measurements and estimates quickly, while also improving accuracy and saving time.
Whether you’re constructing a garden studio, remodeling your home office, or trying something completely novel, it’s important to enter into the home renovation process with an organized mindset. With enough preparation, it’s possible to turn a challenging project into a manageable one.
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