With spring headed our way many of us are dreaming about remodeling projects. However, for a successful remodel it’s important to do more than dream. We’ve written about it before but it can’t be stressed enough: planning is the key to success.
At Michael Nash Design, Build & Homes, we can help you with that through our consultants. They can help with what is practical, what is needed and what you can do – even providing fabulous ideas you haven’t considered!
First steps – plan and budget
The first thing is to determine what it is you want. You can begin by letting your imagination run wild and go for the moon. But jot it all down! You’ll be reviewing it again shortly.
Once you have an idea of what it is you want, it’s time to determine what is practical and the key word here is budget. If you don’t have a budget you can get into trouble – trouble that can get expensive.
With a budget in mind, return to your wishlist. If you’re like many people, you’ll find you simply can’t do all the things you’ve dreamed of, not within your budget. It is time to start pruning.
It’s at this time the dreaming ends and you determine what it is you really want. For example, you may have a list that includes a remodeled bathroom, a new deck and a skylight in the bedroom. Your budget may tell you that the skylight is a “nice to have” and will have to wait till next year. The bathroom and deck are the priorities.
Our consultants can help you when you provide a budget and wishlist. They may even find ways or options that allow you achieve all your wants within your budget, even that skylight. Remodeling is their profession and they are at the top of their field. They can help you stretch your dollars.
Also keep in mind
Try not to overwhelm yourself by taking on more than you can handle. For instance, a single person may find it easy to just step away from his or her home for a time to let the physical work get done. This may not be the case for some families.
Consult with professionals like those at Michael Nash and get a clear idea of what you can expect from the materials you are using. Costlier materials are often more durable requiring less upkeep, repair or replacement. Don’t pick materials because they are cheap. Pick materials that work for your project.
Plan your life around the renovation. A remodeling means some degree of disruption so determine on when is best to do the remodel and how you will live during this time. Many remodels won’t involve much lifestyle change but others, such as a complete kitchen remodel, will mean some alteration to how you are living in your home.
If you plan and budget for your remodeling project, you’ll find you achieve your dream with a successful remodel.
Michael Nash Design, Build & Homes
Fairfax, VA
Fairfax, VA
