Whether you like it or not, the cost of a home renovation or home remodeling can add up quickly. Even if you follow the golden rule that’s been doled out for years—create a 20 percent cushion, so unforeseen expenses are covered—there are instances when you can go beyond the overall budget you’ve set.
Fortunately, just like investing in roofing insurance, there is a way for you to safeguard your budget, so you don’t go beyond the amount you’ve set. Stay frugal without cutting corners by keeping the following practical home remodeling tips in mind:
Focus on improving efficiency and not the size
Say you want to design your kitchen for maximum utility. Rather than blowing out the walls to gain square footage, focus on replacing those space-hogging shelves with cabinet-height pullout drawers.
While you can easily spend a few thousand to upgrade your cabinet (pull-out pot trays, dividers, lazy Susans, the works), you will still save almost triple the amount by investing in custom-designed and super-efficient cabinets instead of expanding the kitchen.
Bring in natural light instead of adding windows
Want to brighten your space without breaking the bank? Instead of rearranging the framing or cutting a big hole in your house, try a less expensive and less invasive way of capturing light.
For instance, brighten up a windowless hallway or bath by installing a “light tube,” which can be slipped between funnels and roof rafters so light can pass through your living space.
Do your own demolition
While knocking down your place is not as costly as the rebuilding process, it is still possible to shave dollars if you do some of the demolition yourself, given that you proceed with caution.
For instance, if you want to demolish the deck, that’s something you can easily do. However, if you have not tried demolishing your interior space, it would be best to leave the task to professionals.
Consult an architect
Depending on the scale of your home remodeling project, a full-on architectural commission might not be necessary. Apart from requiring multiple site visits, extensive meetings, and sets of construction drawings, a full-on architectural commission can be costly.
Fortunately, you have the option to avail of a one-time design consultation. Often, for a flat fee, an architect can examine the problem and plan out a few simple solutions like moving a door or opening a partition wall.
Avoid overspending on wall prep
If your walls are in rough shape, it would require days of filing and sanding before it is ready for painting. Instead, consider using a nontoxic and breathable wall covering made of fine glass filaments.
Texturglas can be likened to the fiberglass matting used in auto-body work. It is also available in diverse surface patterns, can take paint readily, and can be installed right on top of any existing surfaces.
Consider balancing high and low-end materials
Save a significant amount of money by investing in statement items like a good stove or a quartz countertop and not splurging in less impactful areas. However, you have to figure out the balance yourself, depending on your style inclinations and your project’s extent. The idea is to find the right balance and not go to extremes.
Wait for sales before making massive purchases
There are certain times of the year that are more ideal to buy certain items. Research the best time to make purchases and not let your impatience hinder you from getting a great deal. You can also consider purchasing floor models or buying scratch-and-dent appliances.
Sell anything you won’t be using
Don’t throw away any of your old fixtures. If you can use some extra cash, try selling your old fixtures on buy and sell sites like OfferUp, Craigslist, or Facebook Marketplace. Your old appliances, doors, cabinets, and other fixtures might be of interest to others. You also have the option to visit scrap yards for metal items you want to sell in exchange for cash.
Be patient and take your time
If you have the money, it would be tempting to renovate all at once. However, it can be challenging to make cohesive renovation decisions when you are rushing in things and factoring in so many things. If you rush things, you might regret some of the renovation choices you’ll make.
Conclusion on Home Remodeling
Home remodeling can be exciting. However, they can also be daunting and costly without proper preparation. When it comes to home renovations, take your time and prepare accordingly, so staying within your budget is easy and straightforward.
About the Author
Rachel Porter is the content specialist for Custom Contractors Insurance, LLC, an Arizona roofing and contractors insurance company. When not writing, she enjoys reading and mountain biking with her friends.
