Remodeling a home can be a hefty investment, but there are ways to cut the costs and completely renew your home without breaking the bank. Knowing how to do this can be very important when you’re trying to sell your home and margins are tight; after all, you don’t want to invest $20,000 into a renovation only to make an extra $10,000 from the sell price. Here are a few things to keep in mind.
1. Focus on efficiency rather than size.
There’s no need to completely remodel your kitchen for new storage spaces. Make use of smart storage options to give your kitchen more storage space without completely tearing everything out. Replace empty cabinets with sets of pull-out drawers, hang shelves on the walls, and buy a few lazy Susans to make the best use of existing space.
2. Use a ‘light tube.’
Skylights are expensive, but everyone likes natural light. Luckily, there’s a solution: a light tube. This device fits between the rafters in the roof and directs sunlight down into the living spaces. While light tubes are $500 in cost, a double-paned skylight can cost $1,500 — and that’s before installation costs.
3. Use recycled materials.
For any jobs that require you to purchase construction materials, consider using recycled materials rather than purchasing them brand-new. Not only does this help the environment, but it helps you save money with materials that are just as high quality, but cost significantly less than new materials would. Habitat for Humanity offers a number of options at their ReStores found all throughout the country.
4. Put in some of the work yourself.
Sweat equity is very much a thing. Speak with your contractor to find out what jobs are available for you to do to cut down on the cost. Chances are, your contractor is strapped for time. They’re usually busy with a variety of different jobs and will happily offer you a lower cost if you agree to do some of the work for them. Demolition jobs are a great way to cut the cost of a remodel.
Whether you’re selling a home or just trying to bring new life to the one you’ve had for years, remodeling can be expensive. Do what you can to cut costs and get your free quote for an estimated remodel for the room of your choice.
