Whether the projects are piling up, the walls are closing in, or you’re not enjoying your home anymore, remodeling is often the best choice for people who love their location and have a sentimental attachment to their home.
When to make the remodeling leap is harder to determine. The short answer is sooner, rather than later. Few house problems get better with time. Renovation projects typically take three to 12 months to nail down the design process, get estimates, pull permits, wait out weather and supply-chain delays, and complete the construction.
Protect your investment by doing your homework and starting early to ensure you won’t have to rush decisions, cut corners, or settle for in-stock design options.
Tackling multiple projects at once offers some advantages, like paying some costs only once, managing the household disruption in one shot, and achieving a cohesive design. On the other hand, tackling one project at a time means longer construction times, and costs can change over a longer period of time.
An experienced, full-service renovation company with designers on staff, like Central Construction Group (CCG), can help you make those decisions. Meanwhile, here are some signs you’re ready to remodel.
You Know Whether You’re Staying or Moving
Renovating for resale is different from renovating for your own lifestyle. You make different design decisions when your goal is to maximize the return on investment. For instance, it’s not wise to spring for items that don’t increase your home value, like a whirlpool tub or designer tile, if you aren’t going to enjoy them yourself. Your money is better spent in places that will boost home value, like kitchens, bathrooms, and additions.
But if you plan to stay in the house long-term (say, more than five years), it makes sense to prioritize your wish-list items regardless of their ROI potential. Go ahead and turn that fourth bedroom into a home gym if it makes you happy.
You Know What You Want
A designer can help you decide the best way to use your space. You don’t need to create the exact visual in your head—it’s a tall ask for the average person to visualize every detail of a fabulous, functional layout. That’s what professionals are for!
However, you should have a strong idea of what you want in general. Does your family need better areas to spend time together, or do they need their own spaces? Does someone want a home office? Do you value outdoor living? Your renovation should start with communicating clear goals to your designer or contractor.
Financing Is Lined Up
A well-thought plan is the most important part of a successful renovation—one that delivers what you want with the least amount of stress. And a good plan relies on a realistic budget, including a contingency of 15% to 30% for unforeseen costs.
Without a handle on the budget, it’s hard to navigate the many decisions you’ll make during a renovation. If the project hits a snag, you’ll need to know whether you’ll be happier spending more for what you envisioned or altering the design to stay on budget.
The House Is Deteriorating
Be wary of putting off leaks, crumbling structures, and water damage. Deterioration can multiply and lead to a more expensive repair, not to mention safety issues. If a repair involves getting into the walls or other major structural work, consider it an opportunity to address layout or cosmetic issues, too.
Don’t be embarrassed by a DIY project gone wrong. It’s gratifying to dabble in home improvement! Rest assured, you won’t be the first person your contractor has rescued. According to the National Association of Home Builders, 30% of remodeling jobs are repairs to a DIY fiasco.
Renovate the Right Way with CCG
A successful renovation happens at the right time for your family, maximizes your financial resources, and results in a space you’ll love for many years to come. Contact Central Construction Group to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation and tap into our extensive experience to decide if the time is right to renovate. Call 317-213-6246 or connect with us on Facebook or Instagram.
