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Tips for wallet-conscious remodeling
Get work done when it won't cost you an arm and a leg. What does
this mean? Simply put, think ahead. If you've already hired someone
to remodel one of your bathrooms, and know that in a few years' time
you want to put a bathroom in the basement, take advantage of the
opportunity and have the contractor rough-in new wiring and plumbing
lines now. This tends to be very cost-effective and reduces
disruptions when you do go ahead with future plans.
In the same vein, if you've hired a specialty trade professional to
carry out a specific project, ask them to repair other problems when
on site. While they are in your service, you might as well get as
much done as possible. It will cost less in the long run.
Like with any major purchase, shopping around is the best way to
find the good deals. For people with an older home, salvage yards
provide excellent opportunities for rare finds at low prices.
Purchasing appliances from factory outlets can also save you money.
Another way to save money is to finish house projects in stages. If
you can't afford everything at once, especially for a higher quality
job, renovate over time. There's no hard and fast rule that says you
must remodel your entire house all at once.
Factor in other costs associated with home renovations as well.
People often forget that the disruption caused by major overhauls
means more take-out meals and perhaps even a visit to a hotel for
several days at a time. To avoid too much costly disruption, try to
isolate construction areas if you can. For instance, no one can live
in a house without a working bathroom, so make sure bathroom
improvements happen one at a time. Work on the first room before
starting the second. When remodeling a kitchen space, set up some
kind of snack bar in your basement or other area where you can fix
simple meals. |
