Remodeling Your Home: Alterations for the Professional and the Homeowner

With the housing market in a slump, now may be the perfect time to consider doing a small remodel of parts of your home. A minimal amount of money can give your home a new look and make it easier to sell. If you do decide to do this be forewarned; after your remodel you may not want to leave.

The most cost effective remodels are the jobs that focus on cosmetic elements such as new paint and fixtures. If you only have enough money to update on room, choose the kitchen or bathroom. Although these rooms are more expensive to update than other rooms in your home, this is also the area where you will see the most return from your dollar when you sell.

The most important part to planning a remodel is the sequence of jobs. After you have researched and decided what type of jobs will make the most use of your money, plan what jobs should be done immediately. If you are not sure, the rule of thumb is to work biggest to smallest.

The biggest remodeling jobs to consider are structural changes to your house. These are almost always handled by a contractor and will require building permits. Next in size and importance are large plumbing and electrical alterations. These will also need to be done by a professional.

Next in size and complexity are remodeling jobs that you may be able to do yourself if you have some basic home remodeling experience. These jobs are often hired out as well. They include major patchwork and alterations to wall and ceiling coverings. This could be something like replacing a drop ceiling or large sections of plaster will drywall. This category also includes replacing or adding light fixtures.

If you are in a kitchen, consider cabinetry and countertop alterations next. If you are installing completely new cabinetry, you will probably want a contractor to do the work. If however, the cabinetry is solid, consider making cosmetic changes, like refinishing or changing the doors. This type of alteration can undoubtedly be done yourself. Replacing countertops is also a job that can be completed by many homeowners.