Planning Home Improvement Projects in the New Year
New year, new you, new... bathroom? If your New Year’s resolution involves tackling that long-overdue home improvement project, you’re in good company. The beginning of the year is the perfect time to plan upgrades, repairs, or renovations—because nothing says "fresh start" quite like a new coat of paint. If your home improvement list is a little more involved than a new paint color, this blog is for you. Check out the best practices below to avoid some common pitfalls of home improvement.
6 Tips To Get The Best Results On Your Home Projects
1. Dream Big, Budget Bigger
It all starts with an inspiration or Pinterest board, doesn’t it? One minute you’re pinning cute DIY backsplash ideas, and the next, you’re seriously considering a full kitchen reno. Before you sell a kidney to fund your grand vision, take a breath and get real about your budget. Make sure to factor in all materials, labor and, of course, the inevitable "that’s going to cost extra" expenses.
Pro tip: Always add an extra 20% to your budget for surprises.
2. Prioritize Projects by Need, Not Pinterest Likes
While your home improvement wish list may include luxuries like a secret wine cellar (a girl can dream), focus on what actually needs to be done. Is your roof leaking? Paint chipping? Plumbing groaning? Start there. As unfun as it can be, plan what has to be done first before shifting to what you want to do.
3. Research, Research, Research
If you’re planning to DIY, make sure you know what you’re getting into. Watch YouTube tutorials, read forums, and be honest about your skills and limitations. If you’re hiring a pro, get multiple quotes, check reviews, and ask for references. Remember, you’re hiring someone to work on your home, your biggest investment. I recommend getting three quotes to get a good range of costs in your area.
4. Plan Around Your Life (and Sanity)
Renovations are disruptive. Even a simple weekend project can make your home look like a combat zone. If you’ve got kids, pets, or a partner who’s allergic to chaos, plan accordingly. Can you live without a functioning kitchen for two weeks? How about the people you live with? These are important things to consider before your appliances have been removed and the cabinets are pulled away from the walls.
5. Expect Delays and Stay Flexible
You’ve made the perfect plan, and you’re sure everything will go smoothly. But chances are they won’t. Delays are as much a part of home improvement as paint splatters and finding extra screws you’re sure were important. Stay flexible, keep your sense of humor, and remember: It will all be worth it when it’s done.
6. Know When to Call It Quits
Sometimes, despite your best efforts, a project goes off the rails. Maybe your simple bathroom remodel uncovered plumbing that looks like it’s really, really not close to code. It’s okay to admit defeat and call in the pros.
Final Thoughts
Planning a home improvement project is an adventure, but with a little humor and a lot of preparation, you can survive the process with your sanity intact. So grab your tools, your budget spreadsheet, maybe a bottle of wine, and get a great start to the new year!
What will you do next to love where you live?
Please feel free to reach out to us at The Redesign Habit and ask questions or simply share a project that you are working on or have completed.
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