Home Remodeling Tips – 5 Things to Consider

Remodeling all or part of your home is an expensive, messy, and disruptive process. A lot of homeowners get frustrated or want to lower the price. The actions they take to make the process go faster or cheaper often lead to expensive problems down the road.

Let’s look at five things you need to avoid when going through a remodel.

1. Trying to DIY Beyond Your Skills

You might think that doing all or part of the remodel by yourself will save you money. However, the fact is, it could end up costing you a lot of money in the long run.

Be realistic when it comes to your skillset. You might know how to repair a bit of woodwork if it comes loose. But, do you have the skills to set cabinets, build stairs, finish hardwood flooring, and cut/install trim throughout the house?

If you try to take on a remodeling project but don’t have the skillset, you could cause damage. You can also put a lot of money into materials that you end up having to trash when you realize you made a major DIY mistake.

2. Hiring and Buying on the Cheap

It is very tempting to go with the cheapest construction companies in Inland Empire. You think you’ll end up saving a lot of money. The cheapest contractor, however, may end up costing you more than you expect.

For example, some contractors will price low to get in the door. Then, they start adding additional charges for things they didn’t include in the estimate.

A contractor’s estimate should be detailed. It needs to include plans for how to handle permits, contractor fees, waste removal, and insurance. It should also include details on how changes to the project are handled. Those changes can increase the price dramatically.

Buying low-grade supplies is also something that could end up costing you more in the long run. Buy quality products that are durable.

3. Being Unrealistic About the Budget

Setting a realistic budget can be a challenge. There are so many factors that you need to consider during a remodel.

• Are you stripping the room back to the studs or just doing a surface remodel?
• How big is the space you’re renovating?
• Do you need to address major systems (plumbing, electricity, HVAC) or structural issues?

The only way to create a realistic budget is to get multiple estimates from the professionals. These estimates will tell you what’s realistic for what you have in mind. Just remember, that even with a realistic budget, you need to add at least 10% to the estimates for overages.

4. Avoiding Building Codes and Regulations

You might be surprised at what requires a building permit. Every municipality in the Inland Empire has its own set of building codes and regulations. Some require permits for small things like replacing a windowpane or resurfacing your driveway.

It might sound tempting to avoid codes and regulations. You don’t have to pay for permits and inspections. While you might save some money in the short term, it could end up costing you a lot in the long run. You may find a “Stop Work” order put on the project midway. Or you might find you can’t sell your home due to the illegal work done on it.

5. Thinking Only of Aesthetics

Your home is more than a beautiful magazine picture. It’s a space where you and your family live, work, and play. It needs to be both functional and beautiful. If you are too focused on how the space will look after the remodel, you may find yourself with plenty of remorse at the end.

Choose durable materials that fit your family’s lifestyle. That beautiful white carpet may look great in a photo, but it won’t look so great after the kids and dog track in mud. Marble countertops are exquisite, but easily chip and scratch.

Making any of these mistakes can create chaos in your remodeling or its budget. Before you start remodeling, it’s important to talk with experienced construction companies in the Inland Empire. Contact A-Quality Construction Company. We have over 45 years of experience remodeling homes throughout the area. Call us or use our contact form today.