If you are like me, your home will be always a work in progress. Sometimes it may not be because we are expecting some results or functionalities, sometimes it is just for the sake of it and the fun to do something by yourself. However, we can’t tackle all projects by ourselves and we may need help from time to time. In this case, we need a handyman or an expert and then we must know what our budget is. If you follow our advice you will avoid nasty surprises and your success changes will be higher.
First and foremost, you have to invest wisely. A house is an investment and every work we make on it, will improve its value. But some do more than others. When you tackle a project, be sure you are not over-improving something that won’t raise the value. Check around whether it is a good idea, not only for you but also for any potential buyers when you decide to sell your house.
Second, make a realistic budget and count everything. Any expense counts towards the total but also every money you have counts towards the budget. When you allocate a budget to a project you must count your savings but also credit, and if you are asking for a loan you have to include interest in the budget and check you are not overextending your finances. Be sure you ask for the credit before starting the project to avoid getting without money in the process.
Be ready to discuss your project with contractors. Sometimes a good fit is better than a low price. Make sure you ask about everything and all expenses that may incur in the project. Never leave a loose end in this but still, you’d do good in allocating an extra 10 percent for unforeseen expenses that may slip. The best way to make a proper discussion is to prepare a list of questions and never ask to just one contractor. Sometimes when you are talking with a contractor you may have additional questions, add them to the list for the next contractor, the more info you have, the better choice you will make.
Remember you will not always be able to get what you want in your budget so, be flexible. It is more important to stay in budget than getting exactly what you want, sometimes a little modification in your project may make it cheaper and possible. You must make a list of what you can change and what is completely invariable before starting the project.
And last advice, use your skills in the project. Yes, you have hired a contractor but that doesn’t mean you have to let him do everything while you sit around. If this is what you want, that is nice but you can save good money by doing some of the work by yourself. When you discuss with the contractor and you think you can do something, ask him for a discount.
