Level up your living space

Homeowners should hire an architect and/or interior designer first. Some contractors won't provide a bid on a job unless they see the drawings, which will help the contractor understand the full scope of the work. For some jobs we are able to accommodate your requirements without renderings, but its always best to have a visualization of what will be built to ensure satisfactory results.

The words “renovate” and “remodel” are often used interchangeably when it comes to real estate, contracting, and interior design. However, for professionals working in one or more of these industries, these terms actually entail two very different things. Essentially, the difference between them is that a renovation refers to restoring something to a previous state, while a remodel refers to creating something new.

Yes. Generally, according to Bob Villa "Remodelling generally includes such things as painting, installing new flooring, and switching out items like cabinet knobs and faucets."

The old adage goes that your biggest impact will come from updating your bathrooms and kitchens, but many people don't realize that finishing a basement can add up to 30% to your home's value! Other ways to increase the value of your home include loft conversions, adding a side-return to your kitchen, and Curb and landscaping appeal. 

In a word: it depends. The costs can range from $1500 to $75,000 with the average home remodel costing around $46,000. Estimating home remodeling costs is a daunting task. Appliances, cabinetry and any structural repairs top the list of expenses with labor following closely behind. 

If you need to choose which room to remodel first, you'll want to choose the room that will recoup the remodeling costs and create actual equity. This is why experts agree that choosing to remodel your kitchen or bathroom first is traditionally the smartest move.

There are four primary factors that can help you determine the answer. Those factors are:

1. Cost: Is it cheaper to renovate or move?
   For many Americans, cost is a major factor in home improvement decisions. Whether or not it’s cheaper to renovate or sell depends on your current mortgage situation, as well as how much money you have in savings. Renovations come with immediate, out-of-pocket expenses, whereas moving can put money in your pocket now but cost you a lot more down the line.
2. Emotional attachment
   What will you miss about your home? You and your family may be even more attached to your home than you realize. It may be the place your daughter took her first step, or the last place you saw an ailing grandparent. Consider these emotional implications, both on you and your other family members, before you decide whether you are ready for the stress of moving (and it will be stressful!).
3. Real estate market: Is it a good time to sell?
   Even if it is cheaper for you to move as opposed to renovate, will you be getting the most out of your investment? Do some research about market conditions before you list your home. There are also seasonal house selling trends to consider. Homes typically sell faster in spring and summer, and they’re more likely to sell at or above asking price.
4. Timing: Is the timing right for you and your family?
   Not only is moving stressful, it also isn’t always feasible or rational given other life events happening to you and your family members. Consider that moving may mean changing school districts, commute routes, and mortgage costs.Keep in mind that renovating your house comes with immediate expenses, with the average home remodel costing $46,503. If you are setting money aside for college savings or other finances, can you afford a costly renovation right now, or would it make sense to take advantage of your equity and sell for extra cash?