Should you have a full-house renovation plan? The answer is yes.
When you see a house and fall in love with it, you will most likely get some inspiration and apply it to your home. But the problem is renovating is a massive project that will require your time, money, and effort. You’ll have to prepare your budget, arrange your schedule, or might even need to move out during the renovation process.
Even though the renovation can be bothersome, it’s worth it. Imagine living in a house with the amenities you like. It will help build better relationships with your family and friends. When you want to sell your home, you can name your price.
But face it! Not all renovations are successful. Some homeowners regret having their houses renovated for different reasons, and you don’t want it to happen to you. You spent tonnes of money on your house and built precious memories in it. Don’t let a poor renovation job destroy your home.
5 Factors to Consider for a Full-House Renovation Plan
How Much You Can Renovate.
To begin with, you will have to see what you are legally allowed to do to the house. Naturally, you will have to follow all building and zoning rules and any restrictions in your community. If there are any, comply and apply for the necessary permits to avoid future problems.
Most likely, permits are not required for a few minor changes and repairs. But it’s a different story regarding renovations that need structural changes or if you live in a heritage home.
It’s best to consult a professional to guide you on how much you can renovate to avoid costly mistakes and future legal issues.
Apart from legal issues, you also need to see how much you can renovate based on your budget and plans. If you have a low budget, you need to be realistic about it to avoid burying yourself with debts.
What You Can Change And What You Can’t.
You might also have to see what you can change without spending much money, such as repainting the walls and cabinets. Or consider what you can do without a contractor’s help. But when it comes to making a full-house renovation plan, you will need a contractor’s service and save some money by informing them what you can DIY.
It’s because your full-house renovation may include changing the roof, upgrading the electrical and plumbing systems or adding a few rooms, which professionals do.
You also need to be realistic about what you can do with your house. Don’t ask for any more additions if you only have limited space.
Renovation Budget
Whatever renovation plans you have, your budget is the major determining factor that limits what you can do to your house. You should be able to tell how much you can spend renovating this house. If you want to go all out, you can do so as long as your budget allows it. You can also renovate a few rooms if you keep the budget in check.
As a rule of thumb, you should keep the renovation budget at least 10% of the total cost of your home. Besides, you should be prepared for unforeseen expenses by having a contingency fund.
What to include?
Put all your plans into writing. It’s easy to forget stuff when creating a full-house renovation plan as there are many considerations to observe. They can be general plans broken down into small tasks, as well as the estimated costs. It will also help your contractor know what you want for your house, and they can give you the best services possible.
You can also include items you want to add, such as a deck or a patio, or items you wish to remove, such as a wall.
Working With a Professional Contractor
Even though there are tasks you can DIY, getting a contractor’s help is best. Contractors have the expertise and the experience to do full-house renovations that include dangerous jobs, such as updating, installing, or replacing electrical and plumbing systems in your home. They also have the tools, equipment, and workforce to do the job.
But keep in mind that the contractor you hire should have the necessary licences and insurance to cover you in case of an accident. You can check the contractor’s credentials with the licence provider. Also, check the contractor’s customer feedback on sites such as Yelp and Google to see if they have a good reputation.
Also read: A Guide on the Cost of a Full-House Renovation in Australia
Final Words
You should have a full-house renovation plan if you want to change the look and feel of your house. It is a big project, so make sure you know what you are getting into before you take the plunge. You will need to know how much you can renovate, what you can change and what you cannot, and your renovation budget.
Hire a licensed contractor, like MKJ Projects, to ensure that you will never regret the renovations you do to your home.
