- Plan for your home renovation and create a timeline of tasks to help keep your project on track.
- Prioritize projects that will increase the value of your home and divide the projects into must-haves and nice-to-haves.
- Get the right contractors by researching, getting quotes and references, and verifying credentials.
- Invest in energy efficiency with LED lighting and ENERGY STAR-rated appliances to reduce utility bills and improve comfort.
- Home renovation is an opportunity to unlock the potential of your new home.
The U.S. Census Bureau and the Department of Housing and Urban Development reported that the seasonally adjusted estimate for new single-family house sales in February 2023 was 640,000. The figure is a 1.1 percent increase from the 633,000 recorded in January. But it is 19 percent lower than the 790,00 estimated figure for February 2022.
Congratulations on becoming a new homeowner! Owning a property comes with many responsibilities, but it’s also a great investment. Now that you own your own home, you have the flexibility to adjust it to your preferences and needs. Whether you’re looking to add some personal touches, increase the value of your property, or simply make it more functional for your lifestyle, home renovation is the way to go.
Renovating your home can be daunting, especially if you’re a first-time homeowner. It can quickly become overwhelming with so many decisions and details to consider. So, go through this list of home renovation tips for new homeowners.
Plan Ahead
It’s essential to plan out your renovation project ahead of time. Start by identifying the areas in your house that need improvement and the budget you have available. You can then research the materials and products required for your renovation project. Remember always to have an extra budget for any unexpected expenses that may come up during the project.
Materials and Supplies
Once you have identified the materials and supplies needed for your renovation project, you should create a timeline of when each step will take place. This timeline should also list the tasks that must be completed before moving on to the next step. An organized plan with set deadlines will help ensure your renovation project stays on track and is completed within your budget.
Prioritize
When renovating your home, it’s crucial to prioritize the projects you want to tackle. Determine which renovations are essential and which ones can wait. For example, updating your electrical wiring is much more critical than adding an entertainment room.
Divide the Projects
Divide your projects into must-haves and nice-to-haves to better structure your budget. Furthermore, prioritize projects that will increase your home’s value. Investing in upgrades to the kitchen or bathroom generally has a higher return on investment than other improvements. That way, you can ensure you get the most out of your budget and make the smartest investments for your home.
Get the Right Contractors
Hiring the right contractors is one of the most important decisions you will make during your renovation project. Don’t hire a contractor solely based on cost; do your thorough research by reading reviews and getting referrals. It’s best to get two to three quotes from different contractors to compare and select the perfect fit for your project.
License and Insurance
Ask for the contractor’s license, insurance information, and proof of previous work. When interviewing contractors, be sure to ask about their experience with similar projects, the materials they work with, and if there are any additional costs. For instance, you can work on the home’s curb appeal by hiring a reputable landscaper. The professional should provide pictures and references of past projects. It should also have a list of previous clients you can contact for verification and reviews.
Payment Plans
You should also discuss payment plans in advance to know what is expected from each party. By ensuring that you have the right contractors and all the paperwork in order, you can be confident that your project will run smoothly.
Invest in Energy Efficiency
Renovations can be an opportunity to make your home more energy-efficient, saving you money on your utility bills. Some examples of energy-efficient renovations include adding insulation, installing energy-efficient windows, and upgrading your HVAC system.
LED and Energy Star
You can also use LED lighting and purchase ENERGY STAR-rated appliances for a more eco-friendly home. Taking steps to make your home energy-efficient can also have a positive effect on the environment, reducing your carbon footprint. Investing in energy efficiency is an investment that can pay for itself over time through lower utility bills and improved comfort levels.
Home renovation can be a daunting task, but proper planning, prioritization, and finding the right contractors can be a smooth process. As a new homeowner, it’s imperative to consider energy efficiency since it focuses on being environmentally conscious. It is also a great way to save on energy costs. With these tips, go ahead and unlock the potential of your new home!
