Are you in the process of planning a home remodel but dread the thought of spending too much money? You’re not alone. Many homeowners feel the same way. This misconception is due to stories of homeowners who have spent tens of thousands or more on home remodels.
However, you can cut costs for your project if you are willing to do some research and look in the right places for deals. By following these five cost-cutting strategies, you will be able to trim your budget enough that you can afford to pay for your project without straining your budget or credit.
Identify your Household Needs
Home remodels can quickly become more about the owners’ wants than their needs. While it may seem frugal to want a gourmet kitchen or hardwood floors throughout your house, chances are you don’t need them.
Designers and real estate professionals recommend homeowners write down their “must-haves” and “like-to haves” before beginning any home renovation project. By prioritizing your wants and needs, you can better determine which upgrades are more enjoyable than obligatory.
Prioritize Your Home Upgrades
Before you get out of your toolbox, it’s important to determine which improvements will bring you the greatest return on investment or benefit to your lifestyle. Just because an improvement is expensive doesn’t necessarily mean it’s necessary for your lifestyle, nor does an inexpensive upgrade necessarily lack value.
When planning home upgrades, you should take the time to learn about all of your options instead of just heading for the store. Investing in what you need will help secure long-term equity for your home while avoiding costly mistakes.
Get it Permit-free
Unless you are building a major addition, have structural changes to your home, or are doing electrical work before you begin any remodeling project, it is unlikely that you will need a permit. Obtaining these permits may be unnecessary, but they can also help you save money.
So, it’s best to skip the permit to keep the additional costs. In doing so, you won’t have to lengthen the process.
DIY for Better Quality
You can save money on your home remodel by tackling some projects yourself. For example, if you are working on a kitchen or bathroom makeover, think about cutting costs by painting the walls yourself rather than hiring someone to do it.
Not only will this help you cut back on expenses, but also you will be able to achieve a better quality finish. Besides, there’s nothing more fun than accomplishing tasks yourself.
Invest in Modern Pieces
As we gradually transition into a technology-driven society, it’s only natural that the way we surround ourselves with furniture and decor is changing.
In an age when homeowners have access to devices, they opt for more modern furniture pieces. In doing so, you can add style without spending a fortune.
Suppose you happen to live with your parents or grandparents. In that case, it’s wise to purchase the best medical alert system for seniors. In doing so, you will have the peace of mind that they are safe at all times while improving your home. It’s a deal that’s hard to pass up.
Shop During the Sales
Many stores and shops offer promotional sales throughout the year on building materials. By planning your purchases for these periods, you can save quite a bit of money on items such as tiles, cabinets, and counter tops.
You can keep on the lookout by checking the local shops and businesses around you for these sales. It’s also wise to ask around. Your neighbors might be aware of upcoming deals that you don’t know about yet.
Make the Most of Secondhand Resources
There are many secondhand resources for building materials. You can find a plethora of discarded supplies by asking friends and acquaintances if they have any materials that they will no longer use—or maybe checking the dumpster of your local home improvement store to see if you can score some free or cheap items, and looking online for used building supplies.
By making the most of these resources, you’ll be able to save a ton of money.
Find the Best Deals on Local Services
Instead of hiring out for every service you need, look to the people already in your area. When it comes to services like electrical work, heating repair, and landscaping, many local contractors are willing to barter their product or expertise in exchange for something of value that you have.
Firming out services with your local contacts can help you cut costs while still getting the job done.
If you are ready to embark on your home remodel but want to save money, these strategies will help you shave hundreds and thousands of dollars off your budget. So what are you waiting for? Get started saving today!