Over time, your home becomes a source of pride for you and your family. You make memories in your home, and you update and upgrade features over time to accommodate your family’s changing needs.
At a certain point, those minor upgrades aren’t sufficient, and it’s time to think about a renovation. Here are some things to consider that will help you when and if you decide that it’s time for a home renovation.
Do You Enjoy Living in Your Home?
A home that needs significant renovation isn’t always the most pleasant experience. However, sometimes we don’t realize that our home is in desperate need of an update. We just get used to the faucet that drips, the refrigerator that uses too much energy, and the old linoleum flooring.
Decay and change can happen very gradually in your home, and you might not realize how much you’ve been putting up with until you take a step back and really think about what needs repairs and updates in your home.
You can figure out whether it’s time to arrange a renovation (rather than a few strategic replacements) by making a list of the features in your home that need regular maintenance, as well as the items that are well past their expected date of obsolescence.
- Is your asphalt shingle roof more than 20-years-old?
- Do your appliances predate “Energy Star” certification?
- Does the floor look dirty no matter how much you clean it?
- Do you have an old toilet that wastes water?
- Are the cabinets and countertops faded and old?
Style at Home Recommends:
“Talk to friends who have renovated as well as other real estate and reno experts. It’s really important before you embark on the renovation rollercoaster that you have a clear understanding of what to expect. Plus, you need to make sure that you bring your thoughts and research to the table.”
Renovating Versus Selling
A common reason homeowners may decide to renovate is because the thought of staying in the home is more appealing that selling it and moving to a new residence. However, sometimes the two projects go hand-in-hand.
You may consider a modest renovation to ensure your home sells promptly. These factors are important when you decide whether to renovate:
- Can you recoup your investment with a change of address?
- Is there a place with comparable or better location to your job or school?
- Can you get more space (if you need it) without moving?
- Is there another neighborhood that offers the same or better environment?
According to an article on The Nest:
“If you need only an additional bedroom and bathroom, you could save the most money by building a small addition or converting your existing basement or attic. Envision your lifestyle over the next five to 10 years to judge the most feasible option.”
Moving is a pretty drastic solution for issues like space. A renovation could give you more space and allow you to remain in a neighborhood and home you’ve grown to love. Relocation and real estate agent closing costs are also points to consider.
Before You Begin Your Home Renovation
When you decide that it’s time to undertake a renovation, there are a few things to remember that may help you save money on your renovation and reduce the stress you might feel during the project. After all, having a contractor come into your home to replace a major portion of it is a fairly significant experience.
Consider a single renovation instead of several small projects.
When you hire a contractor for your renovation, it’s less expensive overall to arrange one project rather than several small appointments.
Don’t scrimp on your project to save money.
There are smart ways to save money (like the option mentioned above), but choosing cheap or poorly made features isn’t one of them.
Be prepared for the unexpected.
A well-planned renovation may offer few surprises, but it’s always best to be prepared for the possibility that things might take a little longer than expected.
Is Your Home Ready for an Exterior Renovation?
If you’re ready to get started on your home renovation project, you’ll want to download our eBook: Seven Questions to Ask When Choosing a Remodeler in the Indianapolis Area or contact us for more information on your renovation or remodeling project.
