Mistakes to avoid during a home remodel

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In public speaking, you are taught to focus on what you want to say instead of worrying about a mistake creeping into your speech. When it comes to home remodeling, sometimes the opposite is true: It’s easier to focus on what not to do in order to get things started on the right foot.

With that in mind, we’re looking at some big mistakes to avoid during the remodeling process.

CNBC has a great article about the dos and don’ts of home improvements.

When it comes to indoor projects, a kitchen remodel (either large or small) offers a good return on investment, the article says. They return about $20,000 from their average cost of $30,000, according to the report, and have widespread appeal when it comes to resale.

When it comes to outdoor projects, the article suggests looking into a new roof, which can return up to 105% of your investment.

Speaking of kitchens and in keeping with our theme, Consumer Reports has a great summary of the top mistakes to avoid when undertaking a kitchen remodel.

In addition to things we’ve covered, such as doing your homework on contractors and ironing out a good contract, the article also suggests not getting hung up on one thing, remembering function above all else, and not overpaying for high-grade materials.

In all instances, a good contractor can use their experience to help you achieve your remodeling goals, and help you avoid mistakes along the way.

Have a good week!

Where to start on a home remodel

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It has been said that a journey of a thousand miles begins with one step. For people looking to remodel their homes, finding that first step can be a problem.

The first step in a remodeling journey is to speak with someone who can help translate your dreams into renderings and plans that a contractor can understand. That person is a designer!

Speaking with a designer is the best way to get started and is one of the tips offered in this article. A designer can serve as a sounding board for all your questions and concerns and help guide you through the process. The renderings can help you visualize what your new home space will look like without ever picking up a tool.

A designer can also put your vision into words that a contractor can understand. Think of a designer as a translator, working so two parties can better understand each other. And we have the perfect person in mind for you!

If you are further along in the process, and still don’t know where to begin, we have a tip for you too. Get to cleaning!

Tidying up and getting rid of unwanted junk can be a liberating experience, as noted in this article, and gives you a wonderful canvas to start on.

Taking that first step can be scary, but if you surround yourself with the right people, it can be a rewarding experience.

Have a great week!

More tips for homeowners thinking about remodeling

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Summer is a time when most people are thinking about improving their beach bods. But summer is also a good time to think about improving your home.

This video offers expert tips for people thinking about remodeling.

First, kitchen and bathroom work offers the best return on investment, so that’s a good place to start.

Next, do your homework on contractors. Ask friends and family for recommendations, and scope out companies online.

Also, stay skeptical of any really low offers. As we’ve covered before, a really low offer usually means a contractor is looking to cut corners, either in quality or materials. If a deal sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

Elsewhere, make sure to read all contracts. Don’t be afraid to ask questions or ask for something to be explained for you. It’s common sense, but don’t sign a paper you don’t fully understand.

The tips don’t end there, though. In this article, a couple talks about their remodeling process and how enlisting help from an informational seminar put them at ease and made for a worthwhile experience.

One big takeaway from the article: find a remodeler that matches up with your ideas and then purchase only what makes you feel comfortable.

Have a good week!