How to Save Money on Your Home Improvement Project
Posted by admin on
Unfortunately, every home improvement project will cost more than you think it will and take more time than you planned. However, there are a few tricks you can use that will mitigate the overall cost. Save money on your home improvement project by shopping around for quotes, doing it yourself, and recycling materials.
Shop Around for Quotes
Labor costs vary widely by location. Labor costs also vary widely from contractor to contractor. Do your homework and shop around for quotes from different contractors. Telling contractors what others are quoting you will often get you a cheaper rate or a faster completion deadline. Shopping around will also give you an opportunity to decide if a contractor’s personality and style of doing things matches what you hope for. A home renovation project requires a lot of communication, if you can’t communicate with your contractor, you will not be happy with the results.
Do It Yourself
One of the most effective ways to save money is by doing it yourself. There are several tasks that you can easily learn how to execute on your home improvement project. YouTube is a great source for teaching DIYers how to make a project look like it was professionally done. Depending on how much of the work you plan to do, be aware that there are tools and supplies you will need to be successful. For example, you need to have the right tools to replace a hardwood floor on your own. The right tools will make a big difference in turning an amateur project into something professional.
Recycle Materials
Materials make up about two-thirds of the total cost in home renovations. You can save a lot of money by recycling old but useful materials. For example, if you are doing a kitchen remodel, consider refinishing or painting the cabinets to give them a fresh look. Refacing doors to change the style or even replacing the doors but leaving the cabinet body in place can save you a lot of money. You can also look at buy/sell/trade businesses for quality materials that will be new to you, but much less expensive.
Final costs can sometimes be overwhelming, especially with home improvement projects. These kinds of projects can be expensive, but they always increase the value of your home. Increase the home’s value and your satisfaction by finding ways to save on your next home improvement project.
Check out this article on 3 easy projects that instantly transform a bathroom!