Are you looking to add a bit of ‘life’ to your house?
Remodeling it could be a good choice.
It’s a big project. But when you get it right, it can be hugely rewarding, too.
We’ve explained what remodeling is, it’s advantages, and common pitfalls involved, below.
What is remodeling a mouse?
Remodeling a house involves carrying out significant updates to it.
This often includes altering the layout and design of rooms.
There are lots of skills needed, such as:
- Tiling
- Painting walls and ceilings
- Plumbing
- Interior design.
Reasons people remodel a house
Increase property value
When you do a great job with remodeling your house, it will increase its value. This might be an important consideration if you plan to sell soon.
Just make sure you manage your costs carefully, so you add more value than you spend in the process.
Improve living standard
Enhancing the property’s functionality can result in an improved living standard.
You’ll be able to enjoy features that weren’t previously there, such as:
- Underfloor heating
- A coffee machine
- A new kitchen layout (open plan, for example)
- An en suite bathroom.
Add more space
Remodeling your house can add more space.
If you get planning permission, you could get someone to extend the property. Or you might be able to convert a basement or loft into a useable room.
Remove unsafe or outdated features
Sometimes, remodeling your house can be a safety issue.
Old items that haven’t been updated in a long time might be unsafe, such as:
- Faulty wiring
- An outdated boiler
- Loose handrails.
Getting these fixed ensures an accident doesn’t occur.
How long does remodeling a house take?
To remodel your entire house, it can take up to 6 months.
On the shorter side, around 4 months may be possible.
This timeframe is less if you are only changing one room.
Remodeling your kitchen takes around 6 weeks. And remodeling your bathroom takes about the same time.
The professionals you bring in can give you a personalised prediction. It can also depend on the materials you want to use, because some take longer to ship.
Another consideration is whether you need planning permission.
If this hasn’t been secured, it can slow things down by another few weeks.
How much does remodeling a house cost?
It depends on the size of your house, and your location in the UK.
For a three-bedroom property, costs start at £50,000 for basic renovations. And this could go up to £150,000 for elaborate renovations.
For a one-bedroom flat, prices start at around £15,000. Yet, this could go up to £40,000.
Your location is important because it has a huge effect on local supplier costs. It will also impact materials prices, too.
In the south-east of England, these might cost double their price in the north-west.
If you’re only remodeling one room, then the cost will be much lower.
Which rooms are top priority when remodeling a house?
The kitchen and bathroom are usually the top priority.
These rooms have the biggest impact on your property value. So, updating them can give the best return on investment.
You may prioritise other rooms if they are in particularly bad shape. This requires some personalised judgement for your property.
For example, if the living room has faulty wiring and floor tiles missing, then you might want to do this first.
Does remodeling a house increase its value?
Yes, if you do a good job.
Remodeling your house well will improve its functionality and aesthetic. It could also open more square footage.
You need to ensure that you don’t spend more on the remodel than it adds in value to your house.
Manage your costs carefully. And get several independent opinions about how the changes will affect selling value.
Focusing on the worst condition rooms will bring a higher ROI.
Remodelling a bathroom or bedroom can make a bigger percentage increase, too.
Common pitfalls to avoid when remodeling a house
If you’ve never remodeled a house before, then don’t fear. You’re not alone! This is a big project that lots of people are unfamiliar with.
Luckily, you can learn from the mistakes from the people that’ve gone before you. Here’s a few common pitfalls to avoid.
Failure to plan
Planning is arguably the most crucial step for a successful remodel of your house.
It ensures that you:
- Don’t make any mistakes
- Get the necessary permissions
- Land within your budget and timeframe.
Choosing the first professional(s) you speak to
You should speak to several professionals about your project. This gives you a wider perspective, especially if you’re new to the process.
Each professional will have a unique perspective. Some will mention things that others didn’t. You can also ask for examples of their previous work.
And some may be willing to negotiate on price, while others won’t.
Picking the wrong materials
Materials are a crucial detail when remodeling your house. Don’t worry if you’re inexperienced in this area: it’s an opportunity to learn, so take your time.
A professional can guide you through the different options. They can explain price ranges and give examples of work they’ve completed using each one.
You should also understand the features of each material, and how this would work best in your house. Your expert can also offer guidance about this.
Poor budgeting
You should set your budget before you commission any work. Calculate how much you can afford, over a set timeframe.
And make sure to allow a margin for error. Material costs can move unexpectedly, for example.
Don’t forget that you may need to pay extra for a snagging survey at the end. Make sure to clarify this.
Not considering functionality
Too many people focus on aesthetics when remodeling a house. But this is useless if the changes aren’t functional!
A common example is failing to consider natural lighting in your changes.
Failure to get permission
You need planning permission to alter your home’s exterior.
Especially if you live in a protected area, or in a listed building.
Can you remodel a house by yourself?
It’s not advisable. Professionals can anticipate and avoid common pitfalls. And they also have the skillset and equipment to do an excellent job.
They’ll know how to order materials most cost effectively.
It’s useful to get a qualified second opinion on what you’re thinking, too.
As long as you do your research on their credentials. You’re more likely to be successful with an expert by your side.
