25 Sep Home Remodeling Tips: 4 Ways to Keep Your Spending Under Control
When doing a home remodeling project, sticking to a budget can be quite a challenge. After all, one of the unwritten rules of remodeling is that a project will always take longer and cost more than what you expect. While overspending and longer projects are the norms, you don’t have to accept this as a given.
With proper planning, wise spending, and discipline, you can complete your project ahead of schedule and within your budget. Here are a few things to keep in mind when doing a home remodel with limited funds:
1. Create a detailed plan.
Before you start breaking down walls and ripping out cupboards, you need to come up with a detailed plan. Stick to it as much as you can to keep costs down during the renovation. It helps if you create a list of must-haves and additions that you want if the budget permits.
Figure out what you can remove from the list and what should stay no matter what happens. Prepare a realistic estimate of how much you can shell out during each stage of the remodel. If you’re really determined to stay within your budget, resist the urge to make design changes once the work is already underway.
2. Prepare for the unforeseen.
Hidden structural damage behind walls and outdated electrical components can immediately ruin your budget. It’s crucial to build at least 10% cushion into your budget so any unforeseen situations will be covered.
Involve your home remodeling contractor early in the project in order to create a more realistic budget plan. Although they cannot see through walls, they can evaluate your property to find any possible problem areas. For instance, a spongy bathroom floor tells you there’s water damage that needs to be fixed ASAP.
With the help of a contractor, you can also stop yourself from choosing a design that’s beyond your financial capacity.
3. Mix up materials.
If you want to save more, try mixing materials in your home. Put high-quality hardwood floors in the kitchen and living area but use less-expensive flooring options in areas like the bathroom, mudroom, or entryway. Vinyl and tile are more affordable compared to hardwood so these can help you keep your budget in check.
In short, you don’t have to use the same materials all throughout the house.
4. Consider low-cost alternatives.
Natural stone countertops look very sophisticated and stylish but they don’t usually come with a low price tag. While porcelain tiles for bathrooms give an elegant look, they aren’t exactly inexpensive.
If you want to achieve the same look without breaking the bank, use lower-cost alternatives. Your home remodeling contractor can give you suggestions on which materials can give you a high-end appearance for a more reasonable price.
Home remodeling increases the overall value of your home but it can quickly spiral out of control if you’re not careful. Although keeping the project within a budget takes a lot of work, it’s not impossible. By thinking through every step you make during the remodeling process, you’re sure to keep your budget under control and still have a well-executed project.