Most of us have spent way more time at home in the past few months than usual due to the pandemic. That means you’ve had more time to stare at chipping paint, the outdated backsplash in the kitchen, and your overflowing shared closet. If you’re like 48 per cent of Canadians, you’re considering a home renovation this year. To make sure you get the most from your remodel, here are 5 steps for preparing for a home reno.
- Decide What You Want
If you could hand the contractor a wish list of everything you want in your home, what would it include? Perhaps you want to re-do your kitchen, add a backyard sunroom, or finally replace the vinyl tiling with hardwood. Consider what would truly make your home more enjoyable to spend time in.
The most popular home renovations? Kitchen and bathroom overhauls, and wall painting.
- Assess What You Have
Now that you have a list of your dream renovations, assess what you have and what’s possible. This might mean walking through your home with the contractor discussing what your home’s structure can or can’t support. For instance, if you want to create a walk-in closet in the master bedroom, there has to be existing floor space to build it on.
- Get Your Finances Organized
How are you going to pay for your renovations? If you don’t have the funds set aside, there are several options for securing funding. They range from Home Improvement bank loans to refinancing your mortgage. It’s best to speak to your financial advisor to discuss which financing option is right for you.
- Hire the Right People
There are thousands of construction companies that would be thrilled to do your home renovation, but that doesn’t mean you want them to. To avoid poor workmanship and unfair contracts, vet the contractors you’re considering working with. Ask to speak to their referrals and read their testimonials. Take a look at some examples of their work.
Even better, ask friends and family for recommendations of excellent construction companies they’ve worked with. If someone you trust had a great experience with a company, that’s an indicator that you will too.
- Prepare Your Home
Once you’ve decided what renovations you’re getting and who you’re hiring, it’s time to prepare your home and family. For smaller renovations, like wall painting, you can simply move your belongings to a different room or cover your furniture with sheets.
If you’re getting larger renovations done, you may need to arrange for different accommodations during the remodelling or boarding for your pets. If your kitchen is getting updated, make sure you have a plan for meals during that time.
Find Out What Your Home is Worth Before You Renovate
Renovations can significantly increase the property value of your home, and I can help you decide which renovations are worth investing in. Complete this Home Evaluation form and I’ll send you a report that provides insights into your home’s value as well as past solds in the area.
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