Remodeling your home is a big decision that starts by knowing when to begin and when to wait. There are plenty of good reasons to get going on the process, even if you’re not yet sure what to do. Here’s what you need to know.
Where Do I Start if I Want to Renovate My House?
If you’re wondering where to start on a home remodel in Charlotte, NC, you can begin by turning off the home improvement shows. HGTV makes great entertainment, but it can give you unrealistic expectations for goals, timelines, and budgets.
Instead, it’s best to find a reputable remodeling contractor. Ask for recommendations and search the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI). You can also look for home addition contractors on sites like Houzz.
Be sure to spend time on the interviewing process to make a wise decision. During the interview, you can walk through the project, set a budget and timeline, and build a good working relationship. Need help learning how to choose the right remodeler? We’ve got some ideas.
When Should a Home Be Renovated?
Deciding to renovate your house can be pretty obvious, even if it doesn’t seem that way. If any of these factors ring true, you’re probably ready to start.
Add More Space
When you love your location, but your home is bursting at the seams, adding more space may be the easiest solution. An experienced contractor can help you determine the best way to expand without losing the things you love about the property.
Fix a Dysfunctional Layout
A dysfunctional layout could make even the most spacious homes feel uncomfortable and inefficient. Changing the layout can turn your empty formal dining room or living room into a living space that you love to use every day.
Stop Snowballing Home Repairs
Making minor repairs can feel like a rolling snowball that keeps getting bigger. In the process of fixing one issue, you find another to address. But you can stop the snowball. If you have a leaky shower pan, you might go for a full bathroom renovation and solve all the problems at once.
Improve the Aesthetics
There’s no reason to keep your home the way it is if it doesn’t work for you. Don’t spend another year cringing every time you see your bathroom looking like your grandmother’s. Now’s a great time to make it yours.
How Long Does It Take to Remodel a House?
The construction timeline for remodeling a house usually takes a few months. Here’s what you can expect from these common projects:
- Kitchen and Bathroom Remodeling: About 4 months
- Porches: typically 4 to 6 months
- Additions: 6 to 9 months on average, up to 12 months
Remember that you’ll need plenty of time for the design phase, even if you know what you want. Failing to plan ahead is one of the mistakes to avoid when remodeling a kitchen.
When to Wait
When you’re not sure when to wait, start by considering your own timing. If you have big plans for entertaining during the holidays, be sure to put that on your list of questions to ask a remodeler. Schedule the project early enough that they will be done well in advance.
These days, the supply chain may also cause delays. In that case, we recommend starting the process and ordering the materials with plenty of time to arrive, even if you’re waiting to start demolition until later.
Is It Cheaper to Remodel a House or Buy a New One?
After a look at the housing market, it’s not surprising that many homeowners choose to remodel instead of buying a different home. Rising home values make it easier to finance the project while buying property is more expensive.
Of course, if you’re planning to move within a few years, remodeling might not make as much sense. Homeowners who plan to stay put for 10 to 20 years will get a better ROI.
What Comes First in a Home Renovation?
The first step in your project should be interviewing a licensed contractor for home renovation in Charlotte, NC. At Hopedale Builders, we aim to provide the highest quality craftsmanship and customer service. Contact us to talk to an experienced contractor today.
