Home
Remodeling is usually a significant investment of
time, energy, emotion, and money. RGI Builders, Charlotte’s home remodeling
contractor specialists will help you to consider your options in deciding on
a project, and these are some questions and suggestions to help you think it
through.
How long do
you plan to stay in the house? Remodeling is an investment in
living, and also in the value of your home. Like most sound investments,
time tends to increase its value. In most neighborhoods, we’ve found
that this "investment viewpoint" is especially true for large projects of
$10,000 or more.
Our experience also
indicates that if you stay in your home for 8 years or more, you'll recover
your investment in added value to the sale price -- and you'll have the
enjoyment of living with your "new look."
What
projects are best for increasing the resale value of your home? While the neighborhood and kind of
remodeling affect the sale value of a home, there are some projects that add
value better than others. Kitchen and bath projects, as well as those
projects that expand the existing square footage of the house, usually have
the highest immediate return on an investment. (Be careful about making unusual
renovations or eccentric changes that may make a home less appealing to
potential buyers.)
Also review your
neighborhood. Are your neighbors improving their homes? In some communities, a
remodeling project can increase the resale value of your house almost
immediately! In virtually every
case, good design and quality work will add value to your home.
What is the
overall idea/objective of your project? The most successful remodeling
projects are focused on a clear, broad goal. For example: "Create a warm,
airy, spacious kitchen with lots of cabinets and counters." Some
homeowners dream of cooking in high-tech kitchens, while others dream of
grand dining rooms for formal entertaining. Still others want more natural
light, or privacy.
Remodeling can also
address problems with a home. Ceilings may be too high... or too low.
Lighting is often a focus that can have a big payoff... with new windows,
fixtures, skylights, and more. Think it through and try to define your
unique needs and desires. Then a professional designer can help translate
your goals into specific ideas.
Does
your project "fit" in your neighborhood? Adding a second story to your home
may seem like a good idea, but not if it disturbs the visual lines of your
neighborhood. Similarly, a bold modern look is likely to disrupt the
aesthetics of a traditional neighborhood. Also, be careful not to
"over-improve" your home or you may have to wait for the rest of your
neighbors to catch up.
At the same
time however, don't be afraid to push the limits to create an innovative new
design. A design professional will provide valuable counsel for achieving
the right balance.
Do you have the
resources? A remodeling project can stretch
your emotional and financial resources. You'll be well-served if you stay
deeply involved with the work and the people performing it... providing
encouragement and identifying problems while they're still small and easily
correctible.
Similarly, a detailed budget and expense
forecast saves a lot of frustration and anxiety as the project progresses.
With an experienced, professional builder, you're both committed to getting
the most from your investment. And there's nothing quite like the feeling of
living in and enjoying your completed project.
There's no
substitute for careful thought and planning with your project. Making your
dreams a reality is hard work, but it's an investment that brings
satisfaction and joy for years to come.
