How To Go About Home Renovation
If you are considering a home renovation project, you must understand the importance of choosing the right contractor. This process is also known as home improvement or remodeling. It involves undertaking projects that enhance the interior and exterior of an existing property. The process should be carried out carefully to ensure that you get the results you are looking for. You should avoid making a major renovation for the sake of adopting a new trend. Here are a few tips to help you with your next home improvement project:
Kitchen Renovation Improves ROI By 83 Percent
Whether you are looking to increase the resale value of your home or improve the enjoyment of cooking and entertaining, kitchen upgrades can be a great choice. According to a recent study, minor kitchen remodels improve ROI by 83 percent. Some of these upgrades include installing new countertops, energy-efficient appliances, or replacing outdated flooring. Other small changes to your kitchen can help increase its value and recoup as much as 71 percent of the cost.
While major remodeling projects such as a new roof or siding can increase your property value, small renovations have the most positive returns. A minor kitchen makeover can add a few thousand dollars, while an upscale wood deck addition can improve ROI by 83 percent. However, if you are limited by a limited budget, minor updates are a better choice. Then again, you can always consider adding a room to the home. A bigger home will always command higher prices, and adding a room to your house can increase its value by 81 percent.
Major kitchen remodels involve making the room bigger, changing the layout, and installing new cabinets. A major kitchen remodels can yield a return of 53-57 percent. The smallest kitchen makeovers, such as replacing the countertops, cabinets, and backsplash, can boost the ROI by as much as 83 percent. If you are on a tight budget, however, you can consider remodeling your kitchen yourself for just a few thousand dollars.
While a new kitchen can make a house more attractive, it cannot save a deal if major issues are discovered during the home inspection. If there are structural issues, a leaking roof, a failing HVAC system, and electrical problems, you may have to repair these issues before selling your house. A minor kitchen makeover can boost your ROI, but it may not provide very high returns. So, it is important to research your options carefully before deciding whether or not to upgrade the kitchen.
Avoid Major Renovations For The Sake Of Embracing A New Trend
When making home renovations, it's tempting to adopt the latest style. However, the most effective way to avoid a bad design is to follow the original style. Trends are short-lived and it is better to stick with what you know. A designer suggests that you don't go overboard by installing a 1990s kitchen in an old house.
Applying For A Home Renovation Permit
Once you've determined that a renovation project is a right fit for your home, the next step is applying for a home renovation permit. It can take a few weeks or several business days to process your application, depending on your city or county. You'll also need to spend some time filling out a lengthy application, which varies by location. Once your application is approved, you'll need to wait a couple of weeks before you can begin work.
When you apply for a home renovation permit, make sure that you submit all the required documents. Most cities require a permit to complete any construction work, but you can always opt for a general contractor who will handle the entire process for you. The process will take longer than you think, but it's well worth it in the end. After all, it will ensure that your project meets all the requirements of the local building code.
The cost of a home renovation permit will depend on the complexity of the project. A small-scale remodeling project may cost as little as $150, while a large, complex project may require multiple permits and cost well over six thousand dollars. However, it's worth it to avoid sacrificing time and money for the permit. It's best to get a permit when you're sure that your remodeling project will meet city and state building codes.
The Department of Buildings website provides helpful information about home renovation permits. You can use the infographic provided to learn about the different types of home renovation permits and the paperwork required for each. Once you've decided to apply for a home renovation permit, you'll need to work with your architect to file your plans with the DOB. For example, an ALT1 permit is needed for major alterations, while an ALT2 permit is needed for multiple types of work.
Choosing An Architect
The first step to selecting an architect for your home renovation project is to interview them. While a flashy website gives a good first impression, testimonials and references will give you a better idea of what to expect from the architect. Be sure to ask to speak with at least two of these people for an accurate assessment of their abilities. The architect you are considering should be available to discuss the scope of your budget and the process of designing and building your new home.
The architect you choose should be someone you can trust and who you feel is right for the job. While you can't see the finished project before hiring someone, you can't do a test run unless you work with them. The right architect will be well-versed in design, technical expertise, and judgment, so they will be a great fit for your project. Consider the following tips when choosing an architect for your home renovation:
Google is a great resource for finding architects. You can start by entering your state and city in Google. This will allow you to view many local architects. Alternatively, you can start with a review sites, which allows you to enter your desired location and type of professional in the search field. You may also want to look for recommendations from friends or family. There are many online directories dedicated to hiring architects.
While choosing an architect, be sure to discuss your budget with them beforehand. An architect can't predict your budget based on a wish list. The costs of different finishes and materials can greatly vary a project's cost. If you have a limited budget, discuss this with the architect in advance. You should also discuss your design preferences with your architect before hiring an architect. You may also want to ask about the fee structure with your architect.
Choosing A General Contractor
Hiring a general contractor is one of the most important aspects of your renovation project. The contractor you choose will affect the look, feel, and functionality of your home. You need a professional who understands your unique vision. It's important to vet several contractors before hiring one. You should ask each one for a portfolio of their work, check their licenses, and ask for referrals. Once you've narrowed down your list, get bids from three or four contractors and compare them. You should also be careful not to hire a general contractor who is far too low or too high for your budget.
A general contractor with a proven track record will most likely be a trustworthy and experienced businessperson. A general contractor with a proven track record will have managed their cash flow and built a good reputation over time. Check whether they've ever been sued, and be sure to ask about how the complaint was resolved. Once you've decided on a contractor, discuss the budget and payment options with them. Remember that all contractors charge different prices, so it's important to plan to ensure you're not overspending.
When selecting a general contractor, it's important to ask for references and a list of their previous clients. A general contractor can specialize in certain types of home renovations or may employ a team of subcontractors. In this case, you'll want to know who those subs are and what their licenses and insurance coverage cover. The general contractor should also have a portfolio of their past work to show you what their services entail.
CATEGORY: Home Remodeling
TAGS: painting services, kitchen remodeling, bathroom remodel services, home remodeling, flooring
If you are considering a home renovation project, you must understand the importance of choosing the right contractor. This process is also known as home improvement or remodeling. It involves undertaking projects that enhance the interior and exterior of an existing property. The process should be carried out carefully to ensure that you get the…