Home repair or renovation projects can be extremely rewarding both in terms of personal satisfaction and financially as the resale value of your house goes up. On the other hand, unless you go about your home repair project in a planned and systematic way, there is a risk it would result in disappointment both in terms of costs incurred and the end result.
No matter what your goal, whether it is transforming a specific part of your home such as the kitchen, or thoroughly overhauling the plumbing or the roof, it is vital that you do a comprehensive research so that your home repair projects is completed in a timely and stress-free manner.
Therefore, we recommend that you follow the 3 key tips provided below to ensure that your home repair project turns out exactly how you wanted it.
1. Be clear about your project details and scope
It is important that you have a good idea of the end result or the final picture of your home repair or renovation project. Having a detailed picture of your project means that you can communicate the same in a clear and understandable manner to suppliers and contractors, helping you achieve the desired result. Yet another key benefit of having a detailed idea about your project means that you can get a more accurate quote about the cost likely to be incurred.
If you feel that you do not have a concrete idea then we recommend that you take some time to get inspiration from the many interior design and housing DIY websites. These websites are full of design and repairing ideas that are both trendy and timeless. In addition, you can ask your friends and neighbors who have recently carried out such a project to get some solid, workable ideas.
2. Be realistic in your budget and timelines
One of the common reasons that leave a lot of people stressed about their home repair and renovation project is the spiraling cost that overshoots their planned budget. It is important therefore that you are honest with the budget you set aside for your repair or renovation project. Take some time out to list the expenditure items such as the cost of materials, contractor fees, new furnishings etc. In addition, we would advise you to always provide for an extra 10 percent over your planned budget to take care of unforeseen and unexpected expenses.
Similarly, if your home repair project is extensive and requires the services of professionals then make sure you set a timeline after consulting them. Often times, a specific work in a repair project can hold up the rest of the tasks. Speaking to professionals would give you an accurate idea of such contingencies as help you set a realistic timeline.
3. Exercise due diligence in selecting the contractor
If your home repair project is complicated and substantial then it is almost certain that you would require the services of professionals. However, not all professionals deliver the same quality of service and workmanship, so you should take every possible precaution to choose one with the right qualifications and credentials.
Among the many factors, you should look for their experience, qualifications, quality of proposals, insurance documents, and a reliable warranty. You should ask them for references and get in touch with their previous clients to have a good idea about their competence. Review websites are another avenue where you can look up their testimonials.
