2 minute read
3 Home Improvements to Do in the Winter to SAVE BIG $$$
Written by Expert Contributor Sarah Forti of Forti Homes with Keller Williams Realty
Seasonality is often the biggest factor when planning home improvement projects. But there are some projects that you can plan and execute in the “off season” to help you save big.
1. Decks, Patios, and Fencing
In our area, the average cost of a 400-sf wood deck is around $6,500. A same size composite deck can easily cost $10,000. And if you’re considering a large patio with built-in seating and a wood-burning oven, it’s not uncommon for homeowners to transform their backyard into $50,000-$100,000 outdoor living room! If adding outdoor living space is on your list for 2020, now is the time to plan! During the colder months, contractors who specialize in these projects are slower and willing to work with you on price. Not only that, they will have more time to spend helping you create your dream project. This is also true about fencing projects. Saving 5-10% on your outdoor project could save you hundreds if not thousands of dollars. Put that towards lighting and an outdoor heater, and start enjoying your beautiful new deck or patio right away!
2. Air Conditioning
Colder temps and winter jackets don’t exactly have us thinking about the first inevitable heat wave of 2020. If you plan to install A/C, installing it now can save you thousands. In the off-season, manufacturers tend to offer material discounts on their cooling systems. And your contractor will (1) help you find those deals; (2) thank you for not having to work in extreme heat when installing the system; and (3) be more inclined to loosen up on labor costs, to keep their crew and business rolling during the slower season.
3. Interior Remodeling: Painting, Bathrooms, Kitchens
Generally, contractors are slower during the winter and suppliers offer discounts on paint and other building materials. Planning your kitchen, bathroom, or basement renovation could easily take 2 - 3 few months, so use this time wisely! Work with your contractor to plan and purchase materials now. This will save you time and money. When you’ve stocked up on what you need and your plan is in place, your contractor will be ready to execute efficiently without the pressure of other jobs waiting right behind yours. Then, voila! Your new kitchen is ready by Spring when other folks are just getting started and spending full price on materials.
Expert Contributor Sarah Forti, Newtown Square’s Resident Real Estate Expert
Forti Homes with Keller Williams Realty
610-986-7170
Sarah@FortiHomes.com
www.FortiHomes.com
744 W. Lancaster Ave, Suite 125, Wayne
