Have you recently purchased a home that isn’t exactly your taste, with intentions to remodel it? Do you ever look around your home, even if you’ve been there for years, and redecorated it in your head? Given the popularity of the fixer-upper trend, where you refresh a property to better reflect your personal style or sell it on, it shouldn’t come as a surprise most people will want to improve their home at some point. It also shouldn’t be a surprise that home improvements can become very expensive. However, don’t give up before you start. There are ways to save money during a design overhaul. Whether it’s a complete renovation or a few small updates here and there, emptying your wallet isn’t necessary. In fact, if you make smart decisions and pinch a few pennies throughout the process, you should have some money left over to entertain your closest friends or send your family on some sort of a day trip, so you can enjoy your re-energized space. Here’s how to save money on home improvements.
Consider a partial remodel instead of a complete renovation.
Regardless of the current state of the room, unless it’s condemned for some reason, in which case you may have a bigger issue to deal with, you should be able to salvage a portion of the space. Maybe you like the wall color and can incorporate an accent wall to limit the amount of paint needed for the transformation. Maybe the kitchen cabinets or bathroom vanity are in good condition but can be stained to appear completely different. Perhaps drawers just need new hardware for an instant update that has little effort but a big visual impact. Whatever the case may be, take a good look around the space to see what can be used or repurposed, instead of replacing it with something brand new and more expensive.
Purchase your own materials instead of relying on hired help.
When you purchase your own materials, such as carpet or countertops, you might be able to save money on transportation costs or additional labor. By already having the materials ready for installation, you can save time and money from having someone else follow through with material selection. Additionally, outside vendors may limit your options, so you only have the most expensive choices available, whereas if you purchase your own materials, you know exactly where you want to leverage your funds. Maybe splurge a little on the counters, but save a little more on the flooring? It’s completely up to you when you’re in charge of gathering the materials yourself.
DIY where you can.
If you’re able to do something yourself, do it. After all, your labor is free. You can pay yourself with a relaxing shower and beverage later. For now, make an effort to remove what you can and prep areas where possible. Removing carpet and moving furniture can help cut down labor costs. While you should always hire out professional help for tasks you’re uncomfortable with, preparing the space in advance will save you money in the long run. In these cases, you’ll only be charged for installation instead of the additional costs of prepping the space and extended demolition work before the renovation actually begins. For example, professional painters have rates ranging from $25-$100 or more in some areas, depending upon room size and other factors. If you can, painting a room yourself will only set you back the cost of supplies and paint, which is often much cheaper than hiring out. Weigh every task against your own skill level and the safety risk involved before reaching out to the professionals.
Shop around for the best contractors at the best rates.
When you decide to hire a contractor or another professional to help with your home improvements, don’t choose the first one you see. Shop around. Ask for an estimate and don’t hesitate to let them know you’re comparing quotes. Next, read reviews and ask friends or family members for their references. It doesn’t hurt to ask questions, especially when you’re ensuring the health of your overall budget.
Before beginning any improvements you envision for your home, make a list of what you hope to achieve with the project, then compile a plan of attack. Create a budget and follow these guidelines to save money along the way. Home is where the heart is, so make your space a place you love without breaking the bank in the process.
About Joanne Aubuchon
Joanne is a resident writer for SERVIZ, an on-demand home services company offering everything from Plumbing repairs to Carpet Cleaning across the US. Joanne is a writer by day and reader by night. Joanne loves writing about saving money, raising kids and improving the quality of our lives. When she is not writing, you can find her trying out new salad recipes, playing ball with her kids, or cheering in the stands at her son’s soccer games.
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