5 Things You Probably Don't Know About Remodeling

No matter how you feel about the remodeling process, finishing the home projects that have been bothering you feels awesome. Whether you're sprucing up your kitchen, revamping your bathroom, or giving your entire home a makeover, it feels so good to enjoy a space that is refreshed and updated! BUT – remodeling your home is much more complicated than what they show on HGTV, and it’s important to understand what you’re signing up for. This week I want to share with you five things you probably don't know about remodeling that will help you navigate the process like a pro.

1.Hidden Costs Lurk Around Every Corner: Let’s just jump into this unpleasant reality: No matter how meticulously you plan your budget, there always seems to be a surprise expense waiting to pop up. One thing HGTV gets right is that you never know what they’re going to find when they tear down walls or take a good look at your electrical and plumbing systems. And the older your house is, the more likely there are to be issues that must be addressed. That’s why it's crucial to budget for unexpected expenses and set aside a contingency fund. Trust me, your future self will thank you when that unforeseen plumbing issue or structural repair pops up.

2. Patience Is More Than a Virtue – It's a Necessity: I don’t know about you, but I’m not the most patient person, especially when it’s my house and money on the line. But when it comes to remodeling, patience isn't just a nice-to-have; it's an absolute necessity. Home renovations almost always take longer than expected. Some of that is because the normal process takes longer than most homeowners realize; making plans, getting permits, and scheduling inspections can take a surprisingly long time. But also, delays happen, whether it's due to weather, supply chain disruptions, or unforeseen complications. All of these things can really test even the most patient homeowner who is living in a house that’s being remodeled. During those times, you’ll just need to take a deep breath and remember that the finished product will all be worth it.

3. Communication Is Absolutely Key: This is your home, don't be afraid to speak up about your preferences, concerns, and questions along the way. Trust me, a little communication now can save you a whole lot of frustration later on. It can be helpful to work with a designer because they will listen to your wishes and work to make your vision come to life. A designer can also be a liaison with the contractor and sub-contractors, so you don’t have to be available all the time for questions and problems that come up. They can take all of that off your plate to help make your remodel less stressful. 

4. Good Contractors are Booked Months in Advance: When you’ve decided to start a remodeling project, you want to begin immediately. But the best contractors are booked for months in advance. (Remember when I talked about patience?) Even selecting a contractor can take weeks if you do your due diligence. Take the time to ask for recommendations from friends and family, ask potential contractors for references, then talk to them and look at the work they’ve done. You might find that even good contractors have better availability during the winter months, which is good if your project is inside. 

5. Skimping on Quality Can Cost More in the Long Run: Look, I know remodeling is expensive and scary, and most of us can’t get exactly everything we want. But there are ways to cut costs without compromising the quality of your home design. An interior designer can be an invaluable resource to help you stay in budget and still choose quality materials. You might think you can’t afford a designer, but it could actually save you money in the long run. They have the experience and expertise to guide you in making decisions about materials, cost analysis, quality, and aesthetics. For example, a designer can present you with a selection of materials that fall within your budget to keep you from getting overwhelmed by too many choices. They can also advise you on decisions like reusing your old cabinets or buying new ones, to make sure you get the most impact for your hard-earned money. But whether you work with a designer or not, it's important that you don’t skimp on quality, because that can affect the look and value of your home in the long run.

So there you have it – five things you probably didn't know about remodeling. Armed with this knowledge, you're ready to tackle your home renovation project like a champ. And when it’s time to turn your remodeling dreams into reality, I’ll be here if you need me.

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