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Renovating your home has many positive benefits. It can rectify problem areas and provide added space and function. It can also increase your home’s value. However, it also brings disruption. Planning ahead will minimize the chaos and ensure the project runs smoothly.
- Prioritize
If you home needs lots of work, it is important to prioritize tasks. There will be a logical running order to completing the work. If you don’t consider this, you might have to repeat tasks or do additional work. For example, there is no point decorating a room before rewiring.
- Bring in the Professionals
If you’re not a professional contractor, then seek help. There are certain projects that require expert advice and should not be tackled alone. Skilled contractors will know the best way to complete projects to time and budget. They will be aware of all the ‘don’ts’, such as DIY kitchen renovation don’ts, etc. Through the course of their work they will have come across the common pitfalls and know how to avoid them.
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Tradespeople will also have all of the relevant tools and equipment. They are also likely to have accounts with suppliers and can access discounts. Completing work yourself may seem cost effective in the early stages. In the long term, it is likely to cost you more in terms of tools, materials, and mistakes.
If you are undergoing several large tasks, it would be worth employing a project manager. This person would be your main point of contact for all work. They can liaise with each of the tradespeople to ensure that work is completed promptly.
- Identify the Purpose
At the beginning of any project, it is important to set out the reasons for completing it. What are you trying to achieve? Keep this in mind throughout and convey it to any contractors. They may have a more effective solution that you’re not aware of.
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- Schedule Work
Renovations can bring about disruption. This will vary, depending on the size and nature of the project. Take this into consideration when scheduling work. If you know that you’re going to be busy at work, avoid this time if you’re going to be affected by the changes. Similarly, if you have booked time off, you may not want tradespeople working on the house when you’re trying to relax. Also, check with other members of the family.
For major work, you might decide to move out while work is being completed. It is important to factor this into your budget.
- Budget
Work out a realistic budget and stick to it. If work and materials are likely to cost more than anticipated, consider staging work. Prioritize and schedule the most important renovations now. Could the rest wait until a later date?
Be careful not to cut corners. Although savings can be made, it is important not to compromise on quality. Cheaper solutions sometimes lead to greater expense in the long term.
- Inform Your Neighbors
If renovations are likely to cause disruption to neighbors it is courteous to let them know in advance. For example, they need to be aware of trucks and other vehicles parking in the street. They should also be aware of likely noise.
For any home improvements, large or small, being organized will help them run more smoothly. Potentially, planning ahead will save you time and money. It may also determine the success of the project.