Well Folks the Holiday is upon us… more like right on top of us cuz Christmas is almost here!!
So the questions comes at us once again.. Remodel? or not?
Well, we get asked this question all the time along with the question of…
What little do I have to do to sell a home? OR
If we decide to go a head and remodel, how much should we do at once?
First of all… Remodel or sell?????
I found a bit of helpful information the other day to share with you on whether to remodel or not.
Before making the decision to remodel or sell, ask yourself:
- Why do you want to remodel?
- How much will home improvements cost in your current home?
- How long will the projects take?
- Will these projects improve the resale value of your home?
- What is your home currently appraised at?
- Is the housing market predicted to change or remain the same?
- What requirements do you seek in a new home?
- How much might home improvement costs be in a new home?
- What kind of space do you currently need or think you need?
- How might your lifestyle change in this timeframe?
- Are you considering relocating to be closer to family and friends in your retirement years?
- Do your children or relatives wish to inherit the property?
- Do the benefits of selling outweigh emotional attachments you have to your house, neighborhood and neighbors?
Once you’ve weighed all the questions carefully, you’ll be able to make a decision based on the facts — both financially and emotionally.
Finding a team that fits you and that will help you throughout the remodel is key as well. Do your research and listen to word of mouth and reviews. Angie’s List is a great place to check for contractors in your area and the reviews written. Angie’s List is now FREE membership! Once you make a decision it should be a fun experience!!!
No, IT WILL BE a fun experience!!! 
Now on to if you DO decide to remodel I found some helpful information as well.
Here are the 5 steps I think will help aid you in your decisions.
5 Steps for a Home Remodel
As a homeowner, there is nearly always a laundry list of projects with time and budget constraints when it comes to a home remodel.
This step-by-step guide from the experts at the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI) can help ensure you get the maximum return on your investment and make the most of your remodel.
Step 1 – Identify Reasons for Remodeling
Deciding whether to undertake simple aesthetic changes or a full remodel can be difficult. One of the best ways to decide is to figure out why you are remodeling in the first place, whether it’s to make your new house feel more like home or to update a 1950s-era kitchen.
Step 2 – Set your Budget
Every home is unique in structure, age, quality and craftsmanship, which all impact the price of a remodel. Since no one can see through walls before demolition, the quote you receive will likely not be 100 percent accurate. However, a qualified remodeling company will be open and honest about the issues and challenges it might face during the process. Account for these adjustments by planning for any “surprises” with a 10 percent cushion, just in case. SpaceMakers Remodeling has been remodeling in Woodbury, MN since 1994. Make sure the companies you’re collecting bids from have at least 5-years experience.
Step 3 – Hire the Right Team
To help ensure you find the right company for the job, you should do your research. Referrals from friends and family are one way to find a remodeler. National associations like NARI provide unbiased information and resources that can help you find qualified, certified remodelers in your area. With more than 6,000 members, the organization represents professional remodelers who adhere to a strict code of ethics. Many hold certifications in remodeling, kitchen and bath design and lead carpentry. Find more information and resources at NARI.org. Again, Angie’s List with FREE membership is a great source in finding contractors in your area and be sure to contact only the ones with an excellent rating…they too have strict guidelines.
Step 4 – Understand the Plan
Communication is key in a successful remodeling project. Keep the lines of communication open between you, the remodeling contractor and the work crew. Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Let them know your family’s schedule and whether you have pets confined somewhere. Make sure to specify the best way to reach you, such as phone, in-person or e-mail, and how often you wish to communicate with your remodeling contractor about your project.
Step 5 – Complete the Project
While the dust is settling and the remodel is almost finished, take a moment to walk through your project and note any adjustments that need to be made while the contractor is still on site. Contractors often provide guarantees of workmanship, so find out what they cover and for how long then include this information in your work agreement. You should also take another look at the contract and confirm you have signed permits, receipts, change orders, lien waivers, warranties and manufacturers’ guides at your disposal.
Remodeling a space can be a major project, but with the right help, resources and information, you can make your dream home come to fruition.
I just want to touch base on what I said earlier about the 2 common questions we get…
(What little do I have to do to sell a home? or If we decide to go ahead and remodel, how much should we do at once?)
Well this is mostly a question for you but what we usually do is go through your home with an honest eye…and…well, not to brag, but our Designer, Kian is really good about telling you what you can do to spruce up your h0me before you sell beyond our structural remodeling ideas. She is always willing to help 🙂 We often remind people that a kitchen and bathroom are what get the most return on investment to sell your home.
Again a plug not so much for just us but all remodelers…and that is to find a team that cares and will take care of you through the whole project!
Here is a great article about improvements that pay off from HGTV http://www.hgtv.com/design/decorating/clean-and-organize/which-home-improvements-pay-off
Well I hope this has been helpful!
Keep dreaming!!!!
and HAPPY HOLIDAYS Y”ALL!!!!
