It is no secret that when considering a renovation in your home, it is the kitchen and bathroom renovations that can demand the greatest financial investment but also provide you with the greatest opportunity to add value to your home. Whether you’re thinking about, planning, or already commenced a kitchen or bathroom renovation, here are some rules to ensure that the final outcome is the one you want.
Decide your main objective. Is the goal of your kitchen or bathroom renovation to alter or increase the function of the room, to expand or more efficiently use an already existing space, or to simply be more visually pleasing? Being honest with your own expectations and then communicating them clearly to those involved in the renovation will get things started off on the right foot. Your need for a handicap shower to be installed requires different consideration than a bathroom renovation being considered for more aesthetic reasons.
Determine your budget. This seems obvious, but it can be tricky to reconcile your wish list and tastes with what you want to spend. It may be wise to make a list of the things you want and the tasks that you want to accomplish and compare it to the budget you’ve allotted. The renovation you’d like to do in your kitchen or bathroom might well be realized with simple adjustments with innovative ideas and products rather than a complete remodelling. Using the handicap shower example mentioned earlier, notable headway has been made in the area of accessible bathroom renovation-from the more obvious expansions and restructured plumbing, to modern and resourceful handicap shower installations and accessories such as grab bars and slip-resistant flooring that fit existing space and layout.
Definitely be careful where you cut corners: Remember, your kitchen and bathroom renovation is probably one of your biggest opportunities to add value to your home. Stick to your budget, but don’t compromise quality and workmanship. Cheaper materials and workmanship will eventually cost you—either in the need to re-renovate in the future, or in a less lucrative home purchase offer.
Design with “test of time” in mind: Falling prey to trends can increase the risk that your renovation investment may eventually compromise your home’s appraisal or resale value. If you are contemplating a kitchen renovation for the sake of at least someday selling your home, you may be wise to stick with more traditional materials, classic looks, and neutral colours. Make a design “yours” in your use of less permanent accessories and fixtures.
Don’t be unrealistic with your renovation schedule: Patience is required. Time frames for kitchen and bathroom renovations can take weeks, so make a working plan for meeting your kitchen or bathroom needs while yours is out of commission…and keep the end goal in sight.
