Nothing’s more satisfying than picking out new paint colors, redesigning a room from the studs out, and getting to enjoy all your hard work for years to come. Home renovation can be satisfying for many reasons. It’s always an adventure going into unknown territory and taking on a project you have never done before. But at the same time, it can be an expensive venture. Not to worry, though. You’re guaranteed to save some with these nine cost-effective renovation tips below!
1. Determine Your Budget and Stick with It
Take note. Add up all of your expected renovation costs and write them down. This should include any unexpected fees you might encounter during the project. Once you’ve done that, Finally, refer back to this budget regularly to make sure that you are sticking to it. No excuses unless it’s an emergency.
2. Your Realistic Project Time Frame
Much like the budget, another vital thing to do is have an idea of how long the project will take. Why? Because the timeframe hugely determines labor costs since you’re probably paying the workers an hourly rate per day. At the same time, you don’t want them cutting corners and attempting to finish the project quickly. This will likely end up in haphazard work that will trouble you later on. Instead, talk with your contractors about a realistic time frame and deliverables that you can agree on.
3. Shop Around for Different Contractors
The best thing about the internet is that you can find all kinds of information and services without even leaving your home. The price comparisons and quality of service for traditional jobs such as painting, electrical, carpentry will be easy to compare online. However, keep in mind that price shouldn’t just be the only factor in your decision. Some companies might offer cheap rates, but you’ll end up with substandard work.
4. Take Your Time
Good things take time, and this applies to your renovation project. If you rush, you might have to spend more on repairs or changes to details you don’t like. Don’t get carried away with your renovation project so that it becomes a reason for financial problems. Spend time planning and organizing everything from budgeting to the materials you need before starting anything.
5. Know Your Limits
There are some cases where your limit should never be crossed but remember, no one wants to see their dream house ruined because they failed to say no. Don’t try to force an option that skewers dramatically from your budget. If you want to save money on a renovation project, learn how to force yourself to say no and be contented.
6. Try to Wait Until the Items You Want Go on Sale
The advantage of owning a home is that you get to choose exactly what changes you want. However, if you’re like most people, you probably don’t have enough budget to splurge on any appliance or furniture on the get-go. So be patient enough and wait for some of these things to go on sale. It might take a while but try to wait patiently because this will save you extra spending. Anyway, your home isn’t going anywhere, right?
7. Buy Materials in Bulk
A common mistake that many homeowners make is to purchase materials as they go along. It’s not much of a problem when you’re performing only minor changes. However, when you’re doing large-scale projects, buying materials in larger quantities instead makes more sense because you can negotiate with the supplier for discounts.
8. Rent Equipment Instead of Buying It
You don’t need to spend a lot of money on building equipment. Instead, you can rent it for lower costs. Consider renting the equipment first if you’re doing minor changes first, especially when you’ll probably just use it once.
9. Sell Appliances and Furniture You Plan to Replace
An excellent way to get back on your renovation expenses is by selling old stuff. If you plan to install new appliances, then consider selling the ones you have at home instead of just letting them rust away in your storage area. The bottom line here is, sell your old possessions to purchase fresh, new ones.
Get Started on Your Home Reno
There’s no such thing as a free renovation. But there is a cost-effective way to do it. Remember the tips above, so you don’t have to shell out insane amounts just to increase your house’s value. Cheers!
