LIFESTYLE DOMICILE
Set Yourself Up for A Successful Renovation THINKING ABOUT REMODELING? SAVE TIME, MONEY AND YOUR SANITY BY CONSIDERING A FEW SIMPLE STEPS EARLY IN THE PROCESS. BY MARK HAGEN Photo by strixcode/Getty Images.
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enovating your home can be overwhelming, expensive and stressful. Whether gutting your kitchen, creating a finished lower level or updating a bathroom, a little planning goes a long way. Before knocking down walls, tearing out cabinets or hiring contractors, run through these tips to help things go as smoothly as possible.
GETTING STARTED Decide what you want and run the numbers. It’s easy to muse about picture-perfect living spaces and dream-house amenities but turning those wishes into reality can come with a hefty price tag. Nail down what you want, run the numbers and be sure the improvements fit your budget. Check the calendar. Not only can remodeling drain your bank account, but renovations can tax your time as well. Set a reasonable date the job will be done, padding the timeline for setbacks such as delays in receiving materials, problems with permits and sore backs.
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Make alternate plans. Where will the family bathe when the shower is gone? How will you prepare meals without an oven ... without a kitchen? Create a plan that keeps daily life as normal as possible. Be sure to account for how small children and pets will remain safe and sound during the construction.
BRING ON THE EXPERTS Consider the pros and cons of outside help. You might have experience installing a tile backsplash but creating an upstairs laundry room could be out of your DIY wheelhouse. Decide early on what you can accomplish yourself and when you need to bring in a contractor, designer or other professional. Get a few quotes from the pros, rerun your numbers and adjust your budget accordingly.
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