16 HOME REMODEL TIPS FOR A SUCCESSFUL RENOVATION

by Sarah Leonard

Home remodeling can be both a thrilling and nerve-wracking experience. The possibilities are endless, but so are the decisions, and making a wrong move could cost you both time and money. The experts at the Sarah Leonard Team have got you covered with top-notch advice and remodeling tips to make your remodel a soaring success.

HOW MUCH DO HOME REMODELS COST?

The financial aspect of home remodeling can be daunting. The average cost of a total home remodel can range from $250,000 to $650,000. However, costs can vary significantly depending on the scope and materials involved. Kitchen remodels can range anywhere from a few hundred dollars to $25,000. On the other hand, bathroom remodels can trend upwards of $10,000.

CLARIFY YOUR PROJECT OBJECTIVES

Before diving into any home renovation or remodeling project, it's crucial to have a clear idea of what you're hoping to achieve. Are you looking to add more living space? Or perhaps you aim to improve the resale value of your home? Knowing your objectives will help you plan more effectively and set a realistic budget.

DETERMINE YOUR PROJECT BUDGET

Money is a significant factor in any renovation work. Take time to assess how much you're willing to spend. Factor in unexpected costs that may arise, as they almost always do in home remodels. Remember, spending wisely now could be an excellent long-term investment, especially if it increases your house's resale value.

ESTIMATE THE PROJECT DURATION

Home renovation isn't a weekend job; it takes time. Whether you're planning to revamp one room or your whole house, be realistic about the time it will take to complete the project. Planning ahead will help you fit the renovation work into your daily life without too much disruption.

RESEARCH BEFORE STARTING

A bit of research can go a long way in ensuring the success of your remodeling project. Look up home renovation tips, gather information on building materials, and check if your planned changes require any necessary building permits. This preparation will save you both time and money in the long run.

RECOGNIZE YOUR SKILLS AND LIMITATIONS

It's crucial to know what you can do yourself and when it's time to call in the professionals. If you're not experienced with electrical work, for example, hiring a qualified contractor can save you from unexpected issues down the line.

SEEK RECOMMENDATIONS

Don't hesitate to ask family, friends, or even potential buyers for contractor recommendations. Referrals can offer invaluable insights into contractors' reliability, skill level, and overall performance.

PLAN FOR PACKING AND TRANSPORTATION

Whether you're purchasing new furniture or building materials, plan how to transport them to your home. If the items are large or bulky, you may need to hire a truck or make several trips to a home center.

INTEGRATE THE PROJECT INTO YOUR DAILY ROUTINE

Life doesn't stop just because you're renovating. Think about how the project will fit into your daily schedule. Will it disrupt family meals in the dining room, for instance? Make adjustments as needed.

Allocate a specific space in your home where the renovation will occur. Make sure it's free of any unnecessary items that could get in the way. This will create a more efficient work environment for you or your contractor.

ENSURE CHILD AND PET SAFETY

If you have children, ensuring the project area is safe for them is paramount. Whether installing safety gates or storing away dangerous tools, taking the extra steps for safety is essential.

Similarly, consider your furry family members. The noise and chaos could stress them out, so it’s vital to create a safe space where they can retreat from the construction and remodeling activity.

COMPILE A COMPREHENSIVE CHECKLIST

Before you start, list everything you'll need for the project, from paint and fixtures to tools and building materials. This prep work ensures you won't have to make rushed, last-minute purchases.

DRAFT PLANS OR SKETCHES

Whether it's a new construction or a remodel of an old house, drawing up plans or sketches can help visualize the finished product. This step is vital for calculating square footage, deciding on wall color, and arranging the layout.

SECURE REQUIRED PERMITS

No one wants to imagine their dream home getting entangled in red tape, but securing those required permits is a step you simply cannot skip. The thought of having to halt construction because of a legal misstep is, quite frankly, a nightmare. Permits are more than just a bureaucratic formality; they're a stamp of approval that your dreams are compliant with safety and local codes. So, as tedious as it might be, take a deep breath and appreciate this step as a safeguard for the sanctuary you're building.

CREATE A RELAXATION ZONE

The construction noises, dust, and chaos can all feel overwhelming. During this tumultuous phase, you need a haven, an untouched corner of your home where you can go to get peace of mind. This is your go-to spot for calming your nerves — a place where you can sip a cup of tea, meditate, or dive into a book and momentarily forget the whirlwind of activity around you. Consider this zone as an emotional investment in yourself.

SCHEDULE CLEANUP TIME

The last nail has been hammered in, and your dream space is almost ready. Now is the time to reclaim your space! Schedule ample time for a meticulous cleanup. Think of this as the final ritual in your renovation journey — a cleansing act that prepares your home to be truly lived in. Once everything is swept, sorted, and disposed of, you can finally take a deep breath and fully savor the fruits of your labor.

STRATEGIZE FOR A SMOOTH PROCESS

It's said that failing to plan is planning to fail, and in the world of renovations, truer words have never been spoken. Strategy is your best defense against the emotional toll of unexpected setbacks. Pour your energies into creating a detailed plan, complete with timelines, budgets, and contingency options. As you nestle into the nitty-gritty of planning, you're not just organizing a construction project; you're choreographing a dance where each step flows seamlessly into the next. The reward? A home transformation that respects your time, budget, and emotional well-being.

ARRANGE FOR HELP IF NEEDED

There's bravery in recognizing when you can't do it alone. Whether that means calling in a friend who's an expert with wallpaper or hiring a seasoned contractor, securing help in advance is crucial. Knowing you have a reliable team or even just an extra pair of hands on standby can be immensely comforting. It's not just about sharing the physical workload but also the emotional burden that comes with a home renovation.

WORK WITH THE SARAH LEONARD TEAM

Led by the outstanding Sarah Leonard, the Sarah Leonard Team ranks among the top 1% of real estate teams in the U.S. and holds the #8 spot nationally. If you're looking to buy or sell a home, need remodeling tips, or have any questions about the Elgin real estate market, contact the Sarah Leonard Team today.

GET MORE INFORMATION

Sarah Leonard

Broker | Owner

sarah@sarahleonardsells.com

+1(224) 239-3966