Home renovation can be one of the most expensive types of projects to take on – but it doesn’t have to be. As a homeowner, renovation allows for you to truly make your house a home. You can re-hang a door, repaint a wall, or rip out the cabinets and completely rebuild. The only limitation is your budget and your vision. What do you want to change? What can you change on for your budget?
Renovations can be affordable if you know how to plan for exactly what matters. When you eliminate the work, you can focus on what will really make you happy, you can optimize your renovation costs and even stay comfortably within budget.
1) Long-Term Efficiency Savings
Up-front home renovation costs may seem daunting, but it is important to keep in mind the long-term efficiency savings that come with replacing your windows and doors. Choosing energy efficient windows and doors not only boosts your home’s curb appeal, but also can help save on your energy bills due to better insulation. When choosing windows, be sure to look for the energy star label and pay close attention to the energy performance label provided by the National Fenestration Rating Council. To see the savings yourself, keep a copy of previous utility bills.
2) Plan Ahead/Be Patient
Don’t be caught unprepared when your kitchen or living room is under construction. Make plans in advance, so your family can live a somewhat normal life around the renovations. Know how and where you will eat and how to keep the house closed up if you open anything. This will not only make your renovation more comfortable for the whole family, it also can prevent “emergency spending” on restaurants or hotels when your home is temporarily turned inside out. Shipping delays with the pandemic is another reason to plan-ahead to get your dream home.
3) Refinish and Repainting are the Most Affordable Remodels
Give your doors and window trim a refresh. The single most affordable way to reinvent a space is done with a paintbrush. Paint and wood finish can change the complete color palette of any room, home, or building. You don’t need to change anything major or even buy new pieces. Just change the color, texture, and shine instead. If you feel adventurous, strip the old finish and start new. You can paint or refinish both woods and metals. You can even invent shape and trim using just shades of paint.
4) Know What You Can DIY
In home renovation, there are things you can’t (legally) DIY, like power outlets, and things you can almost always DIY, like painting. Know where to save on labor costs by knowing which parts of your project you can confidently DIY. Know your own skills, along with any limitations on your time or energy. Save where you can, and save yourself the cost of repairs by also hiring contractors when it’s the right choice.
5) Plan for Standard Sizes
Don’t go wild with custom measurements. If you want to save on materials and units, plan for the standard sizes that materials come in. For example, standard double-hung, windows are on average, 24×36”. Plan for this depth and you can take advantage of prefabricated savings. Standard glass doors are typically 60 or 72 inches wide. Work with your contractor to make an affordable and easy-to-build renovation plan that utilizes standard sizes.
6) Break Up Your Demolition Debris
If you need to use a dumpster for demolition, you can get a smaller unit by breaking up your debris. In smaller pieces, the material you need to toss will take up less space. This will allow you to save money on the dumpster rental and haul-away service. You may also be able to save a little by selling remnants of your projects and using this renovation as a chance to hold a yard sale while your house is already inside-out.
7) Work Closely with a Trusted Contractor
Work with your contractor to build the most affordable plan to achieve your vision of a home renovation. Contractors know all sorts of tips and tricks to transform a space without overspending. They can help you find the right materials and discounted materials that suit your style and needs. Your contractor can often connect you with local deals and discount opportunities as well as give recommendations for affordable changes beyond your initial vision. The single most important step to take for an affordable renovation is to know what you’re getting into. You may have a vision of change, but what will that really involve? Get a consultation on the theoretical renovations you want to make. Then talk with your contractor about how to get the results you want while scaling back the amount of work or materials needed to do the job.
8) Finance With Rolox
Finally, finance with Rolox. Your home is your most valuable possession. It keeps your family sheltered, protects your possessions, and it is likely the most expensive purchase you have ever made. Regular investing in maintenance and home improvements with help maintain your home’s value. Rolox offers various financing options. Financing your home improvement project with Rolox gives you the flexibility to complete repairs or remodeling when they need to be done. We work with multiple lenders to find the best financing option for you. Talk with your Rolox home advisor today.
Are you ready to take charge of your home’s design without breaking the bank? So are we. Contact us today to consult on a home renovation loan so you can achieve the changes you need at a reasonable and practical rate.
