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Eight Best Exterior House Remodel Ideas for this Summer

This summer, consider tackling some home improvement projects. It’s the perfect time to update your property with an exterior house remodel. Regardless of your home style, you can find inspiration here to help you along the way.

Do you require professional help? You can rely on the experts for remodeling in Tucson by Assurance Builders. The following exterior remodeling ideas can help boost your home’s curb appeal. 

exterior house remodel

1. Replace the Roof

Replacing the roof provides the best exterior renovation value based on remodeling trends. For example, if you spend $7,500 on a new roof, you could gain a value of $8,000 at resale. On average, homeowners can recover 107% of the initial cost.

2. New Garage Door

How often do you check your garage door? The garage area takes up around 30% of your exterior space, making garage doors one of the most prominent features of your home. Garage door replacement has a high return on investment (ROI), making it the second-best exterior renovation project. 

3. Fresh Coat of Paint

Paint can make a big difference to your home’s appearance and value. Make your home look more inviting by painting the exterior using warm colors. Before choosing a color palette, consider the accent and trim colors. 

4. Refresh the Front Door

Even if you spend a lot of time mowing the lawn, your home’s curb appeal won’t improve much if the front door looks outdated. A front door with cracks or dents looks unappealing and can allow drafts to enter the home. Consider replacing your front door for a trendy exterior house remodel.

5. Remodel the Porch

Porches can add beauty and functionality to your home. Remodeling your porch can increase your outdoor living space and completely change the look of your home. Add porch lights to illuminate the front entrance and provide a safe environment for your family and friends. 

6. Replace the Windows

Windows have prominent features and add style to a home’s exterior. Unfortunately, small issues can lead to bigger problems like drafts and warping. Rather than repair old windows, consider a more cost-effective approach by replacing them.

7. Add a Sunroom

Add a sunroom to your home’s floor plan to enhance the exterior and interior. Large fixed windows allow natural light to enter the interior space and create a pleasing transition to the outdoor spaces. You can also consider adding window patterns to highlight the home’s architecture.

8. New Siding 

Your house’s siding can add color and definition. In addition to creating the perfect look, consider the material’s durability, water resistance, and versatility. These days, you can choose from multiple options, including vinyl, wood, and brick.

Professional Tucson Home Remodeling Services from Assurance Builders

Assurance Builders Inc. provides exterior house remodel services and exterior renovations to residents in Tucson, AZ. By choosing us, you only work with one contractor throughout the entire process of updating and remodeling your home. Visit us to learn about the ROI of your home improvement projects.

Contact Assurance Builders Inc. today for more information on remodeling your home with modern and trendy ideas. Call us at (520) 546-9752.

Five Remodeling Projects That Add Value to Your Home

remodeling projects

Home remodeling projects are an excellent way to add value to your home. There’s more than just monetary value to consider—a remodel can increase appeal to buyers and boost your higher home value if you’re preparing to sell. If you’re not selling your home, you will still enjoy the additional convenience, livability, and pride that a remodel offers.

Are you considering a renovation? Call Tucson’s remodeling professionals, Assurance Builders, Inc., at (520) 546-9752 to discuss your projects and get a free estimate.

1. Kitchen Remodeling Projects

Regardless of whether major or minor, kitchen home improvement projects always increase the value of your home. You can expect to recoup between 53% and 72% of the cost of a kitchen remodel (according to Remodeling Magazine), depending on where you live, the renovation type, and the materials used.

Examples of minor kitchen upgrades:

  • Increased storage space
  • New backsplash
  • Refinished cabinets
  • Updated light fixtures
  • Upgraded faucets

Examples of major renovations:

  • Additional square footage
  • Additional space for seating, dining, storage, or cooking
  • Additional windows or doors
  • High-end appliances
  • New cabinets and countertops
  • Wood, laminate, or tile flooring

It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement and go over budget, particularly in a kitchen upgrade or remodel. Watch your budget and make sure the changes are relevant to the rest of the property.

2. Bathroom Upgrades

Remodeling a bathroom is another way to make your home more appealing to potential buyers and increase its value. Some of the most popular projects include:

  • New sinks, tubs, showers, or toilets
  • Painting or re-tiling
  • Reflooring
  • Upgraded lighting
  • Upgraded mirror or vanity

If you have room in your budget, adding a bathroom (or half-bath) can make your home a hot commodity in today’s real estate market. Even if you aren’t planning to sell right away, you’ll appreciate that extra bathroom more than you might expect.

3. Add Energy-Efficient Extras

Appliances and energy-efficient building materials do more than just increase the value of your home—they reduce environmental impact and save money on energy costs. Think about projects like these:

  • Energy Star appliances
  • Replace battered steel entry doors
  • Replace old windows
  • Smart thermostat
  • Solar panels
  • Upgrade insulation

4. Build an Outdoor Oasis

Increase your home’s value with an outdoor project to add more function and accessibility. Popular projects include:

  • Brick or stone patio
  • Composite or wood deck
  • Replace broken pavers or walkways
  • Upgrade storage sheds

5. Transform Unused Space

If your home has unfinished space, such as a bonus room, attic, or basement, turn it into something fun or functional, such as:

  • Guest bedroom
  • Home gym or office
  • Library or study
  • Playroom or game room

#1 Home Remodeling Contractor in Tucson, AZ

Those are just five of the types of home renovation and remodeling projects that can increase the value of your home. For more ideas, give us a call! We are proud to serve Tucson and surrounding areas.

Ready to get started on your remodeling projects? Call Assurance Builders today at (520) 546-9752 to start the process or learn about tips when planning a bathroom remodel.

Home Improvement Guide

Home Improvement ProjectMillions of people renovate their homes every year. However, home remodeling projects are no easy task since they are generally a pain starting from finding the right contractor to handling the occasional hiccups. And then there is the case of the budget.

However, according to the joint report published by the National Association of Realtors and the National Association of the Remodeling Industry, the headaches and the sleepless nights are well worth it. 74% of the homeowners prefer staying in their homes after a remodeling project.

Be it adopting the latest trends, adding more space, upgrading the kitchen, or increasing energy efficiency, a home remodel constantly increases the resale value of your home. Despite that, this is a vast ocean to navigate, if you do not have any help.

This article brings to you everything you need to know about home improvement, planning, home remodel projects on a budget, tips, and much more.

Home Improvement Planning

Before jumping to the more exciting parts of a home remodel like paint colors, fixtures, and fittings, you need to step back, plan the renovation, what goes into it, mistakes to avoid, etc.

With a clear understanding of the home remodeling process, you can take it one step at a time, reduce stress, and make the entire process smooth and straightforward.

Here are the important steps involved in a home renovation project:

Have a Clear Vision

The first step in the planning process is to develop an idea of what you want with your remodel. What is the vision you have for your home? Are you looking to increase the resale value? Or are you staying back?

Other factors you should consider are the condition of your neighborhood and the return on investment. You need to have a clear picture of which renovations pay good and which are considered excess for the area, in which case, it wouldn’t increase the value by much.

Detailed Home Improvement Project Plan

As the next step, formulate a project plan taking into consideration your design inspiration. It includes:

  • Blueprints for the final project
  • A list of material requirements
  • Project steps, both for DIY and professional

At this point, you may want to look into local zoning regulations and the required permits for the planned renovations.

Finally, take time out to talk to your family and friends about the renovation work and the challenges they have faced during the project.

DIY or Contractor

There is a lot to consider when planning a home remodel. If you could spare some time, you can tackle some aspects of the remodeling job and save money.

Even beginners can easily handle tasks like painting, new flooring, cabinet installation, or even small-scale demolition. You can also enlist experienced family and friends to help.

However, structural changes, window or door installation are better handled by professionals.

Determine Your Budget

Determine Your Home Improvement Budget - Lots of Cash in HandThe most important part of the planning process is to fix the budget. First, finalize the maximum amount you are willing to spend and make it a point not to go over.

  • Research and list the prices of the required materials.
  • Set aside 10%-20% for unexpected expenditure.
  • The labor costs should account for 20%-40% of your total expenditure.

Having said that, the budget depends on the price of paint, flooring, cabinets, countertops, etc. If you are planning on doing the renovations yourself, the cost of the tools and equipment is also included.

You may also want to remember that every little thing adds up, and it is easy to exceed the estimates.

Hire Contractors

Even if you are going by way of DIY, is it safer to hire the services of a contractor for critical tasks like architecture, interior design, new addition, large-scale demolition, etc. While cost estimates are essential they are not the deciding factor. You may also want to consider:

  • The years of experience (in the current line of work)
  • References
  • Liability insurance
  • Contracting license
  • Payment schedule

Do not just rely on the client testimonials, instead ask them to look at their latest work. Visit their job sites to see their dedication, cleanliness, and vibe.

Choose Your Design and Style

Now that we are getting into the more exciting part, you’ll need to finalize the design and style you are going for; a more sleek and modern look or maybe a rustic Victorian or perhaps the ever famous farmhouse style

Whatever you decide should flow from room to room, at least in the important rooms such as kitchen, living room, family room, and basement.

If it is a whole house remodel, consider hiring or consulting with an interior designer. Pinterest is an excellent resource for design inspirations.

Obtain the Appropriate Permits and Insurance

Few projects require a permit from the local governing body. Common home improvements like electrical and plumbing modifications, structural and footprint changes, additions, decks, and new windows may require permission. Failure to obtain the permits may complicate the process and disrupt the sale of your house even years down the lane.

Since the building codes vary from city to city, you may want to call your local city offices for information.

On the same note, you want to check your homeowner’s policy coverage and apply for more if needed. And also, the builder’s risk insurance covers property loss, theft, vandalism, etc.

Consider the Structural Limitations

DIY or not, have a pro check out the structural limitations if you are planning on upgrades like new additions and/or demolitions. Your structure and foundation may not be equipped to handle more weight.

Ensure that the remodels also adhere to the local building code.

Create a timeline for the project with the help of your contractor. You can go two ways: specify the start date or the end date and work backward.

Sit with your contractor and work how long each task takes. Ensure that the timeline includes:

  • Time to clean the site
  • Shipping and delivery of materials
  • Account for days off like holidays, personal leaves, etc.

Always have a buffer time set for unexpected issues and delays.

Prepare for Home Renovation

The final step of the planning stage is to get your home ready for renovation.

Are you living in your home during construction or away? The answer to that depends on the work being done. If you plan to stay, get your contractor to arrange for a temporary kitchen and sleeping arrangements.

However, in case you are remodeling your entire home, it is better to move out until the job is complete.

Basic Order of Home Improvement

Working in the incorrect order can have disastrous results, and you may run the risk of losing time and money. However, the proper order may differ based on the approach, DIY or Professional.

As a rule of thumb, you start with the external layer, followed by the inner structural layer, and then moving on to the cosmetic home improvements.

  • Fix structural problems(foundations, roof, siding) so that your house is safe and the new work doesn’t cause any upheaval.
  • Demolition: Demolish the walls and other structures that new projects will later replace.
  • Start the rough-in work, including the ductwork for central heating and air conditioning, new electrical and plumbing systems.
  • If any new structure/space is added, you may want to do the framing and add new walls if needed.
  • Install the insulation in the walls and the attic.
  • The drywall company will now hang the sheets of drywall and apply the drywall compound. Then, let the compound dry and sand to a smooth surface.
  • Your painting contractor will take over and get the entire surface painted. Alternatively, you can paint them yourself, but it is hard work, especially if the painting surface.
  • Next comes the cabinets, showers, bathtubs, sinks, toilets, etc.
  • Install any new windows and hang doors.
  • Install the flooring(carpet, laminate, or tile floor) at this stage.
  • Add the final touches by adding the trims, backsplashes, light fixtures, hardware, etc.

What Comes First When Renovating?

Start the project by renovating the space that means the most to you. That way, even if you run out of energy or funds, you have the essential areas completed.

Or, you can start with the repairs and then move on to the other renovations. Even if you stop by now, you’d have all your repairs completed.

On the other hand, if you are hiring contractors, start the work inside out, like mechanical features inside the walls.

Is it Worth Remodeling Your Home?

While remodeling your home brings some measure of happiness and satisfaction, it is not always that it brings value to the property.

With a complete kitchen remodel, homeowners recoup 59% of the cost while a master suite 50%.

On the other hand, hardwood flooring recovers 106% of the cost. And a heating/cooling system returns 85% of the price.

To summarize, Yes! It is worth remodeling your home, but not all renovations have a good ROI. So, you better do your research on which projects are worth the while.

Things to Consider Before Remodeling Your Home

While a home remodeling project can bring you immense satisfaction and happiness, there are some things you may want to consider firsthand:

  • The purpose of remodeling is to increase the value of your home. And not all projects have a good ROI. Research says that mid-range remodeling always has a good return than a high-end. For example, mid-range kitchen remodels with new countertops, floors, appliances, and refaced cabinets have a neat ROI of 81.8%.
  • The value of your house is fixed by the neighborhood. So, if the houses around you sell for $250,000, the chances are that yours will also sell for the same amount. So, cap your budget at $50,000 max.
  • While Pinterest is excellent for design inspirations, they are usually from luxury houses and are probably not worth your money.
  • Take your time until your house comes together to select paint colors, fixtures, etc.
  • Be pragmatic about the renovation process and the timeline—factor in the waiting period and shipping time.
  • Interview multiple contractors, compare bids, get testimonials and contact their clients before you finalize one.
  • Get detailed summaries of the proposed plans from the contractors. Include the services, cost of labor, quality of products, payment plans, etc., in written format.

Cost of Home Improvement

Cost of Home ImprovementAccording to Remodeling Calculator, the cost of a home remodeling project ranges between $44,000 – 75,000.

The cost depends on several factors:

  • Scope of the remodel
  • Number of rooms involved
  • Local labor rates
  • Type of materials (economic vs mid-range vs high-end)
  • Existing house conditions
  • Accessibility issues
  • Unexpected problems

Home Improvement on a Budget 

Not everyone has the budget for a home renovation. More often than not, you end up sacrificing quality to get things done. Instead, you can follow these home improvement tips and make the best use of the available resources.

  • Maintain the existing floor plan, including the electrical and plumbing systems.
  • Look for minor upgrades that would make the space more pretty and give it a modern look.
  • Instead of replacing old knobs and hinges, give it a new look with some spray paint.
  • If the floors are in pretty good condition, consider refacing them.
  • Try a DIY approach wherever possible. If you do not know how to do something, you can always watch a couple of videos of people doing the same for some knowledge.
  • DIYers can save much from lightly used appliances or recycled building materials. However, if you are using a contractor, he/she may not accept salvaged items since they do not want to accept liability if something goes wrong.
  • Add a feature wall for an instant lift.

Renovation Ideas for Old Homes

The charm of old houses is absent in the new constructions. They have a character, and every room speaks a story. If you are to renovate an old home, you may want to keep an eye out for the following issues:

  • Electrical system: Old wirings aren’t generally an issue unless they feature a breaker box by Federal Pacific Electric and a knob-and-tube-wiring. Both have a risk of fire and have to be replaced.
  • Plumbing: If the plumbing is original, it would be either copper, galvanized steel, or cast iron, in which case it would be leaking soon.
  • Wood rot: Do a walk around the house looking for rot. They are easy to handle in the earlier stages.
  • Lead Paint: Older houses tend to have lead paints, as was the norm back then. However, they are toxic to its residents.

Here are some remodel ideas for old houses:

Refurbish the floor: A well-maintained floor is integral to the look of your home. Though expensive, hardwood flooring looks luxurious and adds a rustic touch.

Paint your room: Paint the walls in contrasting colors for an attractive look. The rooms not only look vibrant but also enhances the beauty of the house.

Renovate kitchen and bathroom: If you are going to do the bare minimum of remodels, consider the kitchen and bathroom at the top of the list. Else, you might soon be facing trouble.

Tips to Keep the Costs Down on Home Improvement

Going over the budget is every homeowner’s nightmare. However, with a few tips and some strategic thinking, you can easily save costs without cutting corners.

  • Set a budget and stick to it whatever the reason, even if the new Viking cooking range looks attractive. Without it, you can easily overspend much more than you intended.
  • Reorganize and increase efficiency before you start knocking down the walls. Replace the shelves with pull-out drawers.
  • Instead of installing new cabinets, shell out for dividers, pull-out trays, lazy susans, etc., to maximize the space.
  • Rather than rearranging the framing for new windows, install a light tube to bring in the natural sunlight.
  • Another way to save money is to handle the demolition or do some of the finish-work at the back end yourself.
  • Instead of paying someone to pick the sawdust and other debris off the floor, keep the costs down by helping with the cleanup.
  • Instead of using credit to make the purchases, wait for the 4th of July sale or similar sales.
  • Summer is the best time to do your remodels. However, this period tends to the most expensive, from materials to labor. Contractors give up to 5% discount during the off-time in January right after the new year.
  • Prowl the aisles at the hardware stores and check what you want in fixtures, appliances, and their cost. Do not rely on the contractor’s estimate. According to Tom Silva from This Old House, the estimate of low 98% of the time.

Conclusion

A home improvement project can take as long as a year to complete. With this in mind, you may want to stay in touch with the contractors, designers, and other professionals to ensure everything is as per the schedule.

Home improvement is generally messy and chaotic. Before you get caught in the mayhem and stress, plan a renovation-free zone for your family. A place where you are free of the mess, can gather, relax and eat at the end of the day. With careful planning and execution, the renovation process can be stress-free and even pleasurable.

Assurance Builders LogoAssurance Builders was founded in 1998 with a commitment to provide our clients a personal and enjoyable home improvement experience. By offering professional workmanship and quality products, Assurance Builders has earned a reputation for excellent work and quality service. If you are planning to remodel your home, contact Assurance Builders for your FREE quote today!

Whole Home Remodeling

Whole Home RemodelingU.S. homeowners spend more than $300 billion a year on renovations and repairs. Are you tired of the outdated look of your house? Or maybe you want to give your personal touch! Perhaps the changing family structure has you longing for some more space!

Whatever it is, the easiest and cost-friendly option is to renovate your home to fit your current needs and vision. What starts with one room can easily spill into the entire house, making it overwhelming for the homeowner.

We bring you everything you need to know about whole home remodeling, including the steps, costs involved, hidden costs, order or renovation, how to cut costs, and much more.

What Is Whole Home Remodeling?

Whole home remodeling allows you to create the home of your dreams without having to buy a new house. It is the process of changing the functionality and design by reconfiguring the layout, including tearing down walls, etc.

While home remodeling often denotes significant changes such as constructing an addition, it can also be as simple as altering the purpose of the area, like converting a guest bedroom to be a home office.

Time Taken for Whole House Renovation Project

A whole-house renovation project can take anywhere from 3 months to 9 months. But the timeline may vary depending on the size, scope, and complexity of the project.

Few days to 3 months – Cosmetic changes like painting and new appliances

Several weeks to 6 months – Medium changes like adding a new fireplace to the living room or a garage to the side of your house

Six months to 1 year – Major foundation or structural repairs and building a new story

Which Is Cheaper: Remodeling or Building a New House?

The cost of tearing down and rebuilding is at least 20% higher than a whole house remodel. So, it might not work if you are on a budget. However, if you are planning to sell it at some point but not in the near future, you may want to tear down and build a new house.

It also depends on the extent of renovation you have to undertake. If you have to refurbish a room or two, replace flooring or repaint walls remodel is your option. However, if you have issues with the foundation, electrical, and plumbing, you may want to build anew.

There are other factors that come into play, such as housing prices, financial capabilities, etc.

What Comes First in Home Remodeling?

Home remodel, however big or small, is a huge undertaking. There is a lot of work that goes into a renovation, and it takes time to plan and get ahead with the project.

While every renovation is different, the process remains the same. As such, the first step in every home remodel is the planning phase where you:

  • Design and organize the layout
  • Finalize the budget
  • Make a list of remodels to be done
  • Choose a contractor

Is Renovating a House Worth It?

Yes! Not only does whole house renovation give you space, but it also offers you better returns, albeit some more than the others. While it can be a good investment, it also depends on the renovation itself.

A full kitchen renovation recoups 59% of the cost and a new master suite 50%. Hardwood flooring regains the most at 106%, followed by a new air conditioning(HVAC) system at 85%.

Can I Renovate My House by Myself?

It is always fun to renovate your house by yourself. If you are willing to dedicate time and get dirty DIY projects can help save the renovation costs. However, if the project is extensive, it can quickly go out of control, and the chances are high that you may not be able to know how to do everything.

The following DIY projects are easy enough for beginners to wet their hands.

  • Cleaning the vinyl siding
  • Repaint the front door
  • Paint the walls
  • Apply wallpaper
  • Reface your cabinets
  • Replace your backsplash
  • Upgrade your bathroom
  • Change your curtains, shades, etc.
  • Refinish old flooring

Keep in mind that even something as simple as building a porch requires permits. You may also want to check with the building codes.

How Much Does it Cost for an Entire House Remodel?

Home Remodeling CostRemodeling a whole house with three bedrooms costs $20,000 to $100,000. On average, the cost runs up to $15-$60 per square foot.

A low-cost home renovation will cost you $20,000 – $50,000.

It includes:

  • Interior Painting
  • Exterior Painting
  • Basic Flooring
  • Baseboards
  • Landscaping

A medium home renovation costs $50,000-$100,000 and includes the following:

  • Full bathroom remodel
  • Full kitchen remodel
  • Quality flooring, countertops, and cabinets

Kitchen remodels cost $25,000 while a bathroom $10,000 on average. A high-cost home renovation will include everything of professional quality and also custom projects too. In addition to everything had the above, you can also ask for:

  • Electrical, plumbing or sewer lines installed or reconfigured
  • Custom cabinets, countertops, range hoods, or similar projects
  • Roof
  • Windows

The cost may change depending on the square footage, the extent of the home renovation, quality of materials, etc. Moreover, structural changes can also add to the cost of remodeling.

How Much Should I Spend on Renovations?

Basically, you should not spend half the value of your house on a room or two or a remodel that doesn’t increase the ROI. The more you spend on a house renovation, the less your returns will be.

Every home renovation is different and will cost more than you think. Figuring out how much to spend on your renovations is challenging. Here are some guidelines.

  • A kitchen renovation should be just 5% -15% of the home’s value while a bathroom about 3% – 7%.
  • Look for quality materials that perform well and last long.
  • While you can ask the contractor to reduce the labor, do not cheap out on it.

How Often Should You Remodel Your Home?

You should remodel your home every 15 – 20 years.

The frequency of remodeling depends on the following factors.

  • The present condition of the house
  • The last-remodel
  • Age of your home
  • Wear and tear-related problems like worn-out tiles, leaking roof, chipped paint, termite infestation, etc.

Steps to Full Home Renovation

Whole-home remodeling is no simple task; It is vast and can get increasingly overwhelming as you move through the stages. There are so many things to consider and tons of decisions to make.

However, taking it step-by-step can make it easy for you to get going and see through to the end:

  • Planning: Bring your ideas to fruition and design your home or room.
  • Interior Design: Pick a style that would stay through the test of time and last for the years to come.
  • Budget: Set aside a budget for your remodeling project. Leave 10%-10% for contingency purposes.
  • Contractor: Hire contractors and sub-contractors for electrical, plumbing, woodworks, etc.
  • Demolition: Tear down walls, remove the carpet, pull up the wallpaper, etc. Basically, anything that needs to be removed to make way for the new changes.
  • Rebuilding: Rebuild the walls, window frames, doors, and any other framework related to the structure.
  • Mechanicals: Electrical work, plumbing, gas connections, water utilities, ductwork for HVAC, and anything else that relates to utilities is handled in this step.
  • Walls: Insulation and drywall followed by taping, mudding, and sanding to get it smooth and ready for painting
  • Flooring: After the walls have been painted, the floors will be installed to prevent drips and spills.
  • Cabinets: Any cabinet work will happen in this stage, including new ones or refacing.
  • Appliances: Everything from refrigerators, cooking range, and washer dryer to fixtures like sinks, faucets, tubs, etc., will be installed as the final stage.

Remodeling contractors will cover all of these steps and make your dream a reality.

Whole Home Remodeling Basics

Renovating a couple of rooms is entirely different from tackling the entire house. It is a mammoth project which requires dedicated planning, time, and patience.

Here are a few things you need to consider before starting the remodeling project:

  • One way to bring down the cost is to tackle a portion of it yourself. If it is easy enough, you can do the entire thing yourself.
  • How are you financing the project? Home equity loans and equity line of credit are some of the funding options.
  • Ensure that the resale value is not affected by the remodel. Most often than not, you will be selling before you finish paying the mortgage.
  • Building permits take notoriously long to get approved. Ensure that you are applying well in advance.
  • From the interior designer fees to the commission for the contractor, the hidden costs can increase the final bill.
  • Renovations inadvertently come with the construction mess, which needs to be tackled carefully. Keep an eye out for lead-based paints.
  • Get comfortable with the work crew and build a relationship since you will be interacting with them for the better part of the next few months.

What Should I Renovate First?

Start with checking if the structure is sound and ensuring that the house wouldn’t collapse on you and is no impacted by the renovations.

Here are the more critical concerns that you may want to tackle first:

  • Roof repairs/replacement
  • Secure the foundation
  • Foundation repair such as weakened walls/beams/joists
  • Repair damages windows and replaces if needed
  • Repair/replace damaged siding to prevent water infiltration.

Once the repairs are complete, begin with the large projects since they will have other dependents and may take time.

Tips for a Successful House Remodel

Tips for a Successful House RemodelHow tempting is it to skip to the more exciting parts like paint colors? But for the remodel to go smoothly, you need to follow the below tips:

  • What is the end goal of the project? Is it increasing the value of the home or adding to the square footage? Or maybe you just want to make the space more comfortable to live in.
  • Set a budget and ensure that you stick to it. Also, set aside a contingency fund for unexpected/ hidden costs.
  • Do your homework. Talk with your family, neighbors, and friends about the remodel work and the challenges that arise in the due process.
  • Ask your contractors for their experience, license, insurance, references, and payments before granting them the contract.
  • Pack up and move your belongings away from the renovation zone. Consider renting storage if you are planning on renovating the complete home.
  • Ensure that the work happens according to your routine with minimal distractions to your day-to-day activities.
  • Plan ahead for utility(electricity and water) outages during the plumbing and electrical work.
  • Create a renovation-free area for the family to relax at the end of the day.
  • Make time for clean-up at the end of the day. Moving the clutter at the day prevents further delays, lost tools, and more.
  • If you plan on a DIY, get help from family and friends for the challenging and difficult tasks. With appropriate support, you can get the work down quite fast.
  • Keep an eye on the weather forecast. The last thing you want is the weather disrupting the project. Ensure the exterior work is on a relatively mild day.

Home Remodeling Projects That Add Most Value

Not all home remodeling projects increase the resale value. Hence it is imperative to know the home remodels that add the most value to the selling price.

  • Replace vinyl siding with stone veneer – 95.6%
  • Replace siding with new fiber-cement – 77.6%
  • Minor kitchen remodel – 77.6%
  • Replace vinyl siding – 74.7%
  • Replace light vinyl windows – 72.3%
  • Converting an attic to a bedroom – 70%
  • Replace garage doors – 94.5%

Checklist for Renovating a House

Here’s the ultimate checklist for renovating your house. It gives you an idea of what needs to be completed and also helps you plan for the same.

  • Exterior (roof, paintwork, siding, door, windows, and the garden.)
  • Floor plan and layout. Make sure you obtain the necessary permits.
  • Appliances (air conditioning, fridge, dishwasher, cooking range)
  • Electrical work (general wiring, lighting, switches)
  • Flooring (hardwood, carpet, tiles, rugs, underfloor heating, etc.)
  • Plumbing (pipes, sewer system, fixtures)
  • Decor and Aesthetics (furnishings, decorations, wall art, paint, fittings)

How to Save Costs On a Home Remodeling Project

Remodels need not be expensive affairs. With a little thought, you can save cost yet remodel tastefully. Here are a few tips for managing a home remodeling project even with limited funds.

  • Stick to your budget. Opt for less expensive materials wherever possible and make necessary adjustments.
  • Shop for a contractor. Ensure that they have been in the business for a long time and have the liability and worker’s compensation insurance.
  • Replace your glass windows with insulated windows. It helps reduce heating/cooling costs and also reduces sound.
  • Do not change plumbing locations. Since they are located inside the walls, access is challenging.
  • Mid-range cooking appliances are great; And save money for cabinets and countertops.
  • Look for more natural options for lighting, like a skylight. Not only do you save on electricity bills, but also you need not restructure your windows.
  • Buy new cabinets or appliances only if you need them. Reuse wherever you can.
  • A balance between expensive and low-end materials; Door handles and frequently used fixtures should be top-of-the-line and durable. And save cost on less frequently used fixtures.
  • Purchase your electronics during Black Friday sales, appliances on American holiday sales, and outdoor furniture during the end-of-summer sales. Research the best time for your purchase.
  • If your cabinets are in good condition, reface them with a new coat of paint instead of replacing them.
  • Have your contractor design a temporary kitchen and save on eating out.

Hidden Costs of Home Remodeling

The cost of remodeling is never the same as the estimate. Do not be shocked if the final bill is higher than the initial bid.

Here are the common hidden costs:

  • 95% of the hidden costs come from change orders that are beyond the scope of the work. Changes always cost extra.
  • Unplanned structural changes increase your budget by 10%-15%.
  • Bringing your home, especially if it’s older) up to the current building code is not usually factored in the estimate.
  • The utility bills may increase if any equipment runs 24/7.
  • Unforeseen pest damages, rots, and water damages account for hidden costs.
  • Considering the safety of your parts, you may want to think about boarding them for the duration of the project.

The Most Expensive Parts of Home Remodeling

Most Expensive Parts of Home Remodeling - Person Holding Lots of MoneyRemodels are a must if you are to maintain the integrity of the house. Not all rooms cost the same to remodel. Some do not cost as much, while others like kitchen and bathroom hurt your budget a little too much. Even though you’d have to bite the bullet and get it done, the knowledge can help budget and plan accordingly.

Kitchen

While the cost of renovating the kitchen depends mainly on the materials and the size, it is still one of the most expensive parts of a remodel. However, you get a fantastic ROI of 80%-85% and often worth the money spent on it. The cost can range from a few thousand to $25,000, $50,000, and even more.

Bathroom

The national average bathroom remodels cost is $16000. However, you can reduce the costs by going for inexpensive finishes, tiles, etc. But cannot skimp on the labor costs, which is 4% of the total expenditure. You need experienced personnel to tackle the plumbing work.

New Roof

The average lifespan is around 20 years for asphalt shingles, wood shakes 30 years, and fiber cement shingles 25 years. Tile, slate, and copper roofs can last more than 50 years.

The above stands true if you maintain the roof periodically and adequately fix any problems that arise.

Replacing a roof requires a professional, and the cost will range between $2,000 and $8,500 for 2,200 square feet. You can save the cost by only remodeling a portion of it then replace the entire roof.

HVAC

Be prepared for HVAC systems to eat into your budget, especially if you made new additions as a part of your remodel. You may need larger rooms to cool/heat your home efficiently.

Add/Repair a Garage

Rather than being a space to store your vehicle, a garage is also used as storage or sometimes a studio. The garage costs around $40 per square foot.

Replace Siding

Replacing a siding is an expensive affair and can cost you $7,000-$8,000 on average, depending on the materials, stucco, brick, wood, and stone. They usually require very little maintenance and last a long time, 10 – 50 years.

Can You Remodel a House for $100,000?

A $100,000 gives you plenty of leeways to design your home the way you want. Here are a few home improvements that you can get done with your rather large budget:

  • State-of-the-art kitchen with engineered stone countertops, custom wood cabinets, double sink, and a large island in the middle.
  • An entertainment area with built-in bookshelves and space to hold the TV and stereo equipment
  • Basement remodel with a game room (air hockey, pool table, foosball) and home theatre room.

Conclusion

There’s nothing more beautiful than watching your vision come true as the remodel comes to an end. But the stress is insurmountable.

There are a lot of steps that go into a remodel. From planning to execution, contractors bring your dream to reality. They can work with you every step of the way and help you in all aspects of remodeling.

Your contractor will probably involve subcontractors to finish the technical aspects of the project. Other people who are likely to be involved are interior designers, carpenters, plumbers, electricians, flooring installers, to name a few.

If you plan on a DIY remodel, get ready for weeks, if not months, of chaos and work.

Assurance Builders LogoAssurance Builders was founded in 1998 with a commitment to provide our clients a personal and enjoyable home improvement experience. By offering professional workmanship and quality products, Assurance Builders has earned a reputation for excellent work and quality service. If you are planning to remodel your home, contact Assurance Builders for your FREE quote today!