Beginning your home renovations journey can be incredibly exciting. After purchasing a fixer-upper that sits in the perfect location and is filled with potential, and once you’ve saved up your money once again, the possibility of renovation is just around the corner. Soon, you’ll be able to transform your home into a space that captures your personality and tastes while simultaneously becoming more functional and useful.
However, the first big decision you will have to make is which project to begin with. With so many rooms and spaces on your property, narrowing down a starting point can be difficult. Fortunately, it may bring you comfort to know that there is no “right” order to home renovations. However, there are a few paths worth exploring that may make the process easier and more financially considerate. Plus, by collaborating with a reputable contractor who specializes in custom builds, such as those at Ultimate Renovations, you’re certain to find professional guidance in determining which renovation route makes the most sense for you.
However, if you’re hoping to narrow down your starting point before speaking with a professional, here are a few aspects worth considering.
Start With The Structure
The structure, from your foundation to your walls to your roof, is the most integral part of your home. It works hard to ensure your home is secure and sound, protecting you and your home’s interior from the outdoor elements. Issues like cracks in the foundation, asbestos in the walls, or damaged shingles can be problematic, as they reduce the effectiveness of your structure. This can result in concerns like water damage, a shifting foundation, or even health problems.
Therefore, when it comes time to renovate, it’s recommended that you start with the structure first. While this may not be the most exciting project, as, aside from the roofing, all the hard work and money you put in will go largely unnoticed, visually speaking. However, a smart approach to renovations has its benefits. First, you can feel confident moving forward with all other projects, knowing that fewer hidden issues will hold you back and cause delays. Second, it can save you money in the long run. There’s nothing worse than finishing a renovation project, only to have unaddressed issues set you back. For example, basement developments can be pricey, but all that money may be spent for nothing if you fail to deal with the cracked foundation first, as flooding can easily undo all your hard work.
Consider Foot Traffic
Once you know that your home’s structure is secure, feel free to take on a project that will have the most impact on your way of living. Consider renovating the most visited rooms in your home, such as the kitchen or bathroom, as they should serve you well. Your home is your sanctuary, so if you’re actively avoiding or finding yourself frustrated with certain rooms, you may have a good idea of where to start. Plus, these areas also tend to offer some of the best return on investment compared to other spaces.
By tackling such important spaces in the home right off the bat, you can use them to define the style, design aesthetic, and overall approach you hope to take for the rest of your home. By setting the standard in such defining rooms, you can feel confident that your home will look cohesive in look and tone. Plus, these newly renovated spaces will be the first ones you can start utilizing, meaning you no longer need to compromise in areas you spend so much time in.
Look At Home Value
Once you have completed the major projects that you were hoping to tackle, it’s now time to consider both your budget and your future goals. Some home renovation projects cost more than others, so determine how your renovation can add the most value to your home. Whether you’re staying for the long haul or thinking about selling, you’ll want to consider what investment makes the most sense for you. If your goal is to boost curb appeal, start on the exterior. Or, if you’re mindful of resale values, consider renovating highly sought-after spaces and opt to develop the basement. It’s entirely up to you how you want to progress your home’s renovation, and having a financial plan that matches your renovation goals will help you decide where to get started.
