Believe it or not fall is just around the corner. With it comes the urge to remodel and spruce up the house. Unfortunately, just with everything else, refurbishing costs have gone sky high. What to do? There are a number of tricks to save you money this fall.
- Prioritize. Yes the kitchen may look dinky but what a drab cooking area compared to a leaky roof? Think practical not aesthetic. If you want to expand a cramped house then consider that before putting in a home theater. Write down what you need done not what you want done. Save the frills for spring or another time when you have money.
- Hire a local contractor. He's usually cheaper and somewhat more reliable than a bigger company. You'll pay at least three to sometimes ten thousand less by using a smaller operation. Bigger operations have to pay for staff, telemarketing and an elaborate marketing campaign. A smaller family run business won't have any of that - just savings. They will also work with you to get the best deal possible.
- Do it yourself. This is a no brainer if you're handy. Have a few buddies and friends come over to pitch in with the work. Don't worry if you're a neophyte. Large DIY stores such as Lowe's and Home Depot offer how to classes on just about every aspect of home remodeling. Plus you can buy your materials for them at very low prices,
- Substitute Instead of having the entire kitchen made over, just have the cabinets and counters done. This is much cheaper plus you still get an entire new look. Instead remodeling the entire bath, just have the tub refitted and add new taps to it and the sink. Change the towels and the shower curtain for something a little more grander. The same can be said for the exterior. New vinyl siding may revitalize the whole house however painting will give you a brand new look as well. If you want to change th elook then add a bay window or even change the style of window . Going from double hung to slider or casement adds variety.
- Smaller changes. You don't have to go on a remodeling rampage for your house to look like it came out of an interior design magazine. Try new carpeting or tearing out the old to leave a wood floor. Stain the floor yourself. Also try creative techniques rag rolling and sponging for your rooms. This spruces up any type of room and lets it have a more luxurious look. Also just a good cleaning where everything is completely polished and waxed will make a house look like it's been remodeled.
This fall don't worry about remodeling costs. You can save money and still wind up with a house beautiful.
