You Want to Remodel Your Home But Where Do You Start?

We aren’t all so lucky to move into the house of our dreams with all the features and amenities we could ever wish for… but if that is you, this isn’t the article for you. This is for those who bought a house because it had “good bones”. Or, the couple who need to update their home to meet their expanding family needs. It is also for those looking to sell their house. Whatever your reason is for remodeling, one thing is clear: you can’t do it all. Well, at least not all at once (if you can, that’s awesome!). For the rest of us, if you want to remodel your home but not sure where to start, here are some tips.

Why & Where?

If you are looking to sell, don’t just look at the interior. Your curb appeal is important too. From painting your front door to remodeling your front porch, these can make a huge impact.

Let’s Start With the Why

There are two questions you need to ask yourself before you start remodeling your home. The first is, “Why do I want to remodel?”. This is important because it helps make hard decisions easier. Typically, there are two types of answers. One is because you are selling your home, the other one is because you are staying in your home. Why are these so different?

If you are planning on selling your home, awesome! You need to consider what is easiest, fastest and will give you the most return on your money. While there isn’t a perfect remodel that allows all of those to happen, it will help you narrow down what is possible.

If you are keeping your home, then this is more about creature comforts. Remodeling or expanding space is really about what you want. Your decisions will really be based on budget, timeline, and your needs.

If you are looking to expand your existing living space, consider remodeling your basement. This could mean finally turning that unfinished basement into a usable entertainment area.

Now the Where

If you are selling your home, don’t have a lot to spend, and you want to make the most impact – paint. Yup. A fresh coat of neutral (not necessarily white) paint is your best bet to freshen up your home. However, if you do have a bigger budget and it hasn’t been done in a while, update your bathroom. Particular upgrades help increase the value of your home.

If you are keeping your home, what is it you want the most? What will ease your lifestyle? Maybe the kitchen just doesn’t flow. Or perhaps, the master bathroom is outdated and not relaxing at all. Sit down and make a list of all the things you wish you could have and see what is the most realistic for your budget.

Tips to Getting Started

Now you know why you want to remodel your home and what you want to do. The next step is to get some information together before getting out any tools. Here is a quick checklist to get you started.

1. Put together an inspiration board. Or better yet, make a Pinterest board. It is always great to have a visual of the look you love. This can help interior decorators, your contractor, and even you, make decisions later on.
2. Make a list of your goals. No matter why you are doing this, make a list of goals for the room/space. For example, if you are looking to sell, are you needing to update a room because things are broken? Or, do you want to make it look updated? Maybe both. Goals should also include your timeline to finish the project.
3. Fix the problems first. When figuring out the budget, go back to those goals. If you want your master bathroom to have a soaking tub added because you only have a stand-up shower, start there. Does that fit in the room? How much does that cost? Will you have to expand? Start with the big stuff and then work your way down.
4. Figure out who is doing the work. Are you wanting this to be on a DIY budget? That’s great, but if you don’t have the skills, this could turn into a DIY disaster. Consider who the best person is to remodel your home based on what you will be doing. Sometimes hiring a professional is the best way to save money in the long run.

Remodel Your Home With Us

It’s okay if you don’t have all the answers. 7th State Builders can help. We work with homeowners all over Maryland to determine the best remodeling project for their homes. Sometimes they already have an idea, other times they want our suggestions. With the experience we have in home remodels, it’s easy for us to assist you. Contact us today and we will schedule a meeting. We sit down with you and really get to know what you are looking for and make the best suggestions for your goals.