If you’re like most families, your home is your haven. It’s where you make memories, relax after a long day, and host friends and family for holidays and special occasions. So, when it comes to expanding or renovating your abode to accommodate a growing brood, it’s essential to do your research and plan to avoid any stressful surprises. To help you out, we’ve put together a list of tips to consider before taking on any big home improvement projects.
Create a Budget and Stick to It
Whether planning on doing all the work yourself or hiring a contractor, it’s essential to create a budget and try your best to stick to it. Start by listing all the materials, supplies, and labor costs you’ll need to complete the project. Once you have a general idea of how much everything will cost, add a cushion of 10-20% for unexpected expenses. Often, things come up during home renovations that you didn’t plan for, so it’s always better to be prepared with a little extra cash. In addition, if you’re planning on taking out a loan to finance your expansion or renovation, shop around for the best interest rates and terms before signing anything.
Get Familiar with the Permits You’ll Need
Before breaking ground on any significant home improvements, you must check with your local municipality about the permits required for the work you’ll be doing. Depending on the project’s scope, you may need multiple licenses, so it’s best to err on caution and get everything squared away before getting started. In addition, some cities have specific regulations about noise levels and hours of construction activity allowed in residential neighborhoods, so be sure to familiarize yourself with those rules. The last thing you want is to get fined or have construction workers show up at 6 am because you weren’t aware of the city’s noise ordinance!
Get Help From An Architect or Designer
Suppose you’re making significant structural changes to your home. In that case, it’s best to consult a professional architect or designer who can help ensure everything is up to code and will be safe. They may also be able to suggest ways of maximizing space that you have yet to consider. In addition, they’ll be able to provide detailed plans for contractors and other professionals involved in the project, so everyone is on the same page about what needs to get done.
Remember to factor in the cost of hiring contractors and other experienced professionals who can help bring your vision to life. It may cost more upfront, but getting expert advice and having someone on-site throughout the process will help ensure a successful outcome.
Consider the Impact On Your Home’s Resale Value
If you’re planning on selling your home, consider how any renovations or expansions might affect its resale value. Make sure whatever changes align with local trends so that potential buyers will be interested in your property. You may also want to look into ways to make your home more energy-efficient or eco-friendly, as these types of upgrades can help attract buyers and increase how much you’ll get for your investment.
Choose Low-Maintenance Materials
When selecting materials for your expansion or renovation, consider opting for low-maintenance options that don’t require extensive upkeep. For instance, durable tile flooring is much easier to keep clean than carpeting and stainless steel appliances last much longer than their less expensive counterparts. In addition, you can save on costs over the life of your home by investing in energy-efficient windows and doors that will help keep your utility bills low.
Stay Flexible
When taking on any significant home improvement project, it’s essential to remain flexible throughout the process. Things may sometimes go differently than planned, so it’s best to be prepared for setbacks or changes. After all, renovations are often messy and chaotic — but with a bit of patience and preparation, you can ensure these projects succeed!
Design with Your Future in Mind
If you’re planning on staying in your home for many years, it’s essential to design your expansion or renovation with your future needs in mind. For example, if you’re adding an extra bedroom now because you’re expecting another child but plan on becoming an empty-nester in 10-15 years, consider making it a multifunctional space that can be used as an office or hobby room down the line. That way, when your kids move out and your needs change, you won’t have wasted valuable space in your home that could have been used for better. Similarly, if you’re renovating your kitchen or bathroom now but think you may sell the house in the future – go with classic design choices that will appeal to the broadest range of potential buyers instead of opting for trendy fixtures that may only appeal to a small segment of home shoppers.
Be Mindful Of Where You Place Outlets
If you’re renovating an existing room or adding to your home – be mindful of where outlets are placed and try to incorporate them into your design plans accordingly. Often during construction projects, outlets get covered up by drywall or new additions like cabinets or countertops, making them inaccessible and requiring expensive rewiring work down the line. By being proactive about outlet placement during a renovation -you can save yourself the headache (and money) later.
Via Pixabay
Make Sure Windows Are Placed Strategically
Another essential factor to consider when expanding or renovating your home is window placement. Where windows are placed can affect everything from how much natural light enters a room..to how efficiently heated or cooled air stays inside..before finalizing any construction plans – take some time to think about how different window placement scenarios would work best for each unique space in your home.
Find The Best Deals On Building Materials
Shopping around for the best deals on building materials when planning an expansion or renovation is essential. ArchiPro is an excellent resource for homeowners looking to save money without compromising on quality. ArchiPro allows users to compare products, read reviews and get quotes from multiple suppliers in one place, so you can ensure you’re getting the best deal possible every time.
Make Sure You Factor In The Upkeep Of Your New Renovation
When making any significant changes to your home – be sure to factor in the cost of maintenance and upkeep for your new renovation into your budget. This includes regular cleaning and any repairs or replacements needed down the line. Doing so will ensure you don’t get stuck with an unexpected expense after the project is finished, and you can enjoy your expanded and renovated home for years to come.
Invest In Clever Storage Solutions
When taking on a big home renovation project, it’s essential to make sure you’re creating enough storage space for your growing family. Investing in clever storage solutions is critical – think built-in cabinets, pull-out drawers and wall-mounted shelves that can be tucked away when not in use. In addition, plenty of designated storage spots will help keep clutter at bay and ensure everyone’s belongings have their place.
Factor In A Laundry Room
If you’re looking to add an extra bedroom or bathroom to your home – remember to factor in a laundry room. A dedicated space for washing and drying clothes can help keep the rest of the house clean and organized. Whether you build it as part of an existing renovation project or opt for a more basic setup like a stackable washer/dryer combo – be sure to include some form of laundry area in your plans
Be Open To Creative Solutions
Don’t be afraid to think outside the box when expanding or renovating your home. Consider creative solutions that may not have been thought of before, like building up instead of out if you’re limited on space. Or look into unconventional materials like shipping containers or reclaimed wood that can be used to form creative, cost-effective design elements. Researching and exploring different options could help you discover a unique outcome for your project.
Make Sure There Is Enough Bathrooms
If you’re expanding your home to accommodate a more prominent family – make sure you factor additional bathrooms into the equation. We all know how inconvenient it can be when there’s just one bathroom for everyone to share – so be sure to plan accordingly. Depending on the size of your family, installing an extra half or full bathroom may be necessary and worth the investment.
Take The Time To Enjoy The Little Moments During Your Project
When it comes to an extensive home renovation project, remember to take the time to enjoy the little moments. From watching your children play in their newly expanded bedroom to gathering around the dinner table with extended family in your newly renovated kitchen – there are plenty of opportunities for creating special memories during such a big undertaking. So make sure you’re taking advantage of these simple pleasures and cherishing them for years.
Undertaking a home renovation or expansion is no simple task – but with a bit of planning, creativity and patience – you can create an inviting and functional space that your growing family can enjoy for many years to come. Taking the time to research and budget accordingly, factor in storage solutions, invest in creative materials and make sure there are enough bathrooms will help ensure a successful outcome and give you plenty of moments to cherish along the way. Good luck!
