When creating your home renovation plan, there are a number of steps that ought to be followed to ensure that the project becomes a success. This not only applies to DIY (Do-it-Yourself) remodeling projects, but also the more complex projects which require the knowledge and expertise of a renovation contractor. This article provides a step by step guide on how to create an appropriate renovation plan:
Why Renovate?
The first and important step when creating your renovation plan is deciding why you intend to make changes to your home. For example, is your kitchen renovation plan aimed at increasing storage space, work space or to update the fittings? Is the bedroom project meant to providing a study area or to update the floors, walls and windows?
If your goal is to increase the value of your home in the real estate market, it is advisable to consider what type of renovation would be the most beneficial. Real estate experts point out that kitchen remodeling can greatly increase the value of a home in the market – it has the highest return on investment when compared to other common home renovation plans. Nevertheless, other renovation projects, such as the bathroom, flooring and windows, have a relatively huge return on investment.
Check Your Local Building Code
Before creating your renovation plan, you must read and understand your local building code – these may vary from region to region. Ideally your building should satisfy your national and the universal building codes.
What are the Renovation Costs?
Another key factor to consider when creating your renovation plan is the owner builder costs and challenges. Your projected budget defines how big the project will be, and whether or not the desired plan is a viable option.
“Certainly, the person who takes on the role of laying bricks, doing carpentry, laying tiles and painting is going to save a lot more money than a person who simply becomes his or her own project manager, outsourcing all the work. But unless you are skilled in these disciplines or you’re an experienced do-it-yourself builder, you will not achieve the same level of quality without help from at least some professionals.” by Brisbane architect, Dion Seminara
In countries such as the United States and Canada the governments offer renovation grants to citizens who may be experiencing financial constraints. Funding is usually based on disability status, age, income levels, age and geographical location. Grants may also be offered to middle- to upper-income homeowners to make their homes more energy efficient.
How to Cut Costs:
The best way of reducing the total cost of the project is to do some of the less difficult tasks on your own. Obtain some free home renovation plans and ideas from different resources, like the internet, remodeling supply centers and open houses. Consider using home renovation software which may effectively help you design certain aspects of your home, such as the floor plan. Websites, such as consumerbuild.org.nz, offer homeowners with great tips, guidelines and ideas on how to achieve success in your project creation and implementation.
Write a Checklist
Below is a quick checklist to get you going:
- Budget (include a cushion of 10-15% to cover unexpected costs)
- Hire an expert to draw the project to scale.
- Review your insurance. You must be covered during and after construction.
- Order and inspect your equipment and materials.
- Start with the basics: Fix any plumbing, electrical or HVAC issues
- Do the surface work– molding, flooring, painting
- Add in appliances and cabinetry.
- Apply the finishing touches – tiles, accessories, backsplashes
Conclusion
Once you have everything in place, check again with your local department of building safety to ensure that your plan is within the stipulated laws. An assessor will verify that the plan satisfies all codes and requirements.
References
http://architecture.about.com/cs/repairremodel/bb/remodel.htm
http://trustedpros.ca/articles/general-contracting/first-steps-when-formulating-a-home-renovation-plan
http://www.leovandesign.com/2013/12/planning-your-home-renovation.html
http://www.ehow.com/about_5592766_grants-home-renovations.html
http://consumerbuild.org.nz
