The economy may be slowing down a touch, but it’s not effecting home renovations. In fact, due, in part, to work from home schedules, renovations and cosmetic changes are one of the top things Americans are spending money on, and plan to continue to do.
Consumer surveys show that spending is up 11% higher than pre-Covid-19 and given the overall shift in the way people are now using their homes and their expectation for continuing to work from home – at least one day a week – many expect spending to continue upward.
So, if you’re wondering why it’s hard to find a good handyman or contractor it’s because the demand is outpacing the talent available.
People are buying new homes and moving at record numbers in volume and price. Others of you have finally decided it’s time to renovate the bathroom, bedroom or home office. Whatever your reason for pursuing home improvement or renovations, we’ve got tips that are going to help make the process to get your project done well, on time and on budget.
1. Clearly define the scope of your project and all the nooks and crannies that need to be addressed. Typing this out can provide clarity for your contractor.
2. Set your budget but be flexible. Unfortunately, due to a reduction in manufacturing during the pandemic and the current state of inflation, materials cost more, gas to travel to the project costs more…everything is more. So, be prepared to up your budget to get what you want. Moreover, set a contingency plan. You never know what’s going on inside the walls.
3. Determine timing for your project but be flexible. Just like your budget, it’s important to remember that your home store, or multiple home stores, may not have the materials you want, and they will need to be back ordered. This all plays into the timing of your project and sometimes the cost. If you decide to order something with expedited shipping, that’s going to impact your budget.
4. Research, “Pin” and pre order your materials. Being definitive about the materials you want and committing to buy them can reduce indecision and project delays due to last minute switches in materials. Take your time outlining your project what you want and where you want it, and always have a backup plan in case the home store doesn’t have exactly what you want and won’t have it for months.
5. Make a detailed plan for your space. Determine what materials you want where. Good decision making upfront saves time and money. Here is a list of apps that can help bring your vision to life before it comes to life.
6. Put it altogether in a simple plan of action and share it with your contractor, or as your interviewing contractors. They may ask additional questions you’ve not thought of that are good additions to consider for your plan.
7. Relax and let your contractor do the work. You can trust that because you’ve done your planning for the project that you can simply relax and just let the contractor, and team, work their magic to bring your vision to life.
The added bonus of planning ahead for your home improvement or renovation project, is that you will be clear and decisive, the contractor and their team will be clear, and the project will go off without a hitch.
Need help with your planning? Contact us.
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