Saturday, May 16, 2015

Tips for Bathroom Remodeling

Bathroom remodeling can significantly improve not only the interior appearance of your home, but also the market value. Other than the kitchen, most buyers look to the bathroom to help make their decision on whether to purchase the estate or not. However, even a small bathroom can be a tricky project. From the water lines to the vanity, here are some tips for a remodel and what you need to know.

Decide on a Budget 
With any renovation project, the first place to start is the budget. Finances can have a huge impact on the materials you select and the boundaries of your bath design. Renovations can be made a lot easier if you know what you can afford and take expenses into consideration when planning. It can also make deciding what items you want to replace and where they need to go significantly easier.

Get More Bang for Your Buck 
Renovations are not just about making your bathroom look pretty. Whether you plan to live in your home long term or plan to put it on the market, it is important to consider the long haul. Chances are that at some point your home may be on the market, and if it is, bathroom remodeling can be the ticket to increasing the value of your home.

Hire a Contractor 
There are some projects that are best left up to the pros. Be honest about what you can and cannot handle. This is not a do-it-yourself type of renovation. Rather, it is complex and if done incorrectly, can result in costly errors. Seek referrals and recommendations from friends, family and neighbors who have had remodeling work done. Thoroughly evaluate your potential contractor to make sure the company has all the correct certifications and a warranty.

Increase the Value of Your Home with a Remodel 
 Ultimately it is important to remember that bathroom remodeling requires time, so be sure to have another bathroom handy or a place to stay during the renovation process. Make sure you adhere to your budget and consider what will increase the value of your home.

Friday, May 8, 2015

Mistakes to Avoid When Remodeling Your Kitchen

A kitchen remodel is a massive undertaking, one that will transform the look of your interior and take it from ordinary to extraordinary. While the end result is beautiful, the process involves plenty of time when everything is torn apart; being rebuilt, updated and upgraded takes a lot of work. Knowing what to avoid before you begin will help make your experience with kitchen remodeling a positive one.

Looking to the Future 

A kitchen remodel is built to last for years, yet it’s very tempting to focus on what is convenient now, but may be a hindrance later. Designing your kitchen to cater to the needs of small children may be nice for a while, but in a few years, when those children are grown, they’re going to have different needs that will require an entirely new update. Make sure to think for the future and realize that change is constant, so build things that will have the longest benefit.

Considering Multiple Options 

Having a plan in mind is a necessity, but make sure to keep that plan flexible. If you’ve envisioned your appliances in certain spots and then find out that won’t be possible, be able to adjust your expectations to adapt to what is doable. A remodel is about designing your kitchen exactly the way you want, but sometimes you might have to adapt that slightly to what is possible. 

Remembering who is in Charge

Ultimately, you are the boss of this entire project, but you hired contractors for a reason. Hiring professionals ensures that you get the expertise that comes with years of experience, so when you disagree with your architect, contractor, or designer, remember that they want to help you achieve your vision and they might know a better way of getting there.

Remodeling your kitchen is an exciting time, but can also be filled with unexpected hiccups and issues. Being prepared to take everything in stride from the beginning and choosing a team you trust and get along with will go a long way in making your experience in kitchen remodeling a positive one.