If you're considering a home renovation, you're not alone. According to Today’s Homeowner, the average return on investment for home remodeling is an impressive 69%. Making the right choices in planning, budgeting, and contractor selection can significantly increase the value of your property.
Fast Facts about Home Remodeling
-
The typical return on investment for home remodeling is an impressive 69%, as noted by Today’s Homeowner.
-
Your specific return can vary based on the type of project, its location, and the amount invested.
-
Certain projects have been particularly profitable. For example, refinishing hardwood floors can yield a 78% return.
-
A garage door replacement yields highest for ROI.
-
The Joint Center for Housing Studies (JCHS) reports that Americans spent $363 billion on home improvements in 2020, which increased to $406 billion in 2021, marking an 11.8% rise, nearly triple the average annual growth rate of 4.4%. Spending continued to rise in 2022, reaching $472 billion. However, projections indicate a potential decline in 2023 due to uncertainties in the housing market.
Tips for Hiring a Remodeling Contractor
Understanding Your Goals Before Engaging a Contractor
The first step in hiring a remodeling contractor is defining what you want. This involves not only the aesthetic outcome you desire but also understanding the practical requirements of the project, like building codes and necessary permits. Having a clear vision will help you communicate effectively with potential contractors.
Gathering Multiple Estimates
It's essential to gather estimates from several contractors. By comparing bids, you can get a sense of the typical cost range for your project, which can help you avoid overpaying. While it may be tempting to go with the lowest bid to save money, remember that cost should not be the only deciding factor. Quality materials and workmanship are also crucial considerations.
Conducting Due Diligence
While it may seem tedious, background checks on potential contractors are crucial to hiring. This can involve checking references, viewing past work, and ensuring the contractor is licensed and insured. Don't hesitate to contact the insurance company directly to verify coverage.
Assessing Past Work and Work Habits
Investigate the contractor's work history. This can involve visiting a current job site, asking about how many other projects they are handling concurrently, and talking to previous clients. A reputable contractor should maintain a clean and organized job site and adhere to a set schedule.
Establishing Job Site Boundaries
It's important to set boundaries for the job site. This includes defining working hours, determining where materials will be stored, and determining worker access points. A respectful contractor will agree to these terms and ensure their team follows them.
Understanding Project Costs
You should know exactly what you'll be paying for before work begins. This includes understanding the payment schedule, which should align with project milestones. Avoid contractors who demand a large initial payment or full payment upfront. Also, account for other expenses, such as permit fees or potential overruns.
Setting Conflict Resolution Strategies
Even with careful planning, disagreements can arise. It's important to have a strategy for resolving differences with your contractor. This might involve weekly check-ins or having a neutral third party mediate disputes. A plan can help keep your project on track and maintain a positive relationship with your contractor.
Reviewing Contract Details
Before signing a contract, ensure you understand all the details. This includes the scope of work, payment terms, and completion date. If anything is unclear, don't hesitate to ask for clarification. Having a lawyer review the contract, especially for larger projects, may also be a good idea.
About The Laws Collective
The Laws Collective is a dynamic real estate team with a collective experience exceeding 30 years in the industry. They have successfully navigated challenging market conditions, including the mid-2000s recession, and have a history of successfully negotiating multiple offers on hundreds of homes. Their expertise extends to selling millions in new construction and helping buyers secure their dream homes in competitive situations.
The team emphasizes genuine connections with clients and colleagues, aiming to build relationships that outlast fleeting market trends. They focus on establishing trust and maintaining open communication lines even after transactions are complete, serving as a go-to resource for all real estate needs seven days a week.
The Laws Collective takes pride in its diligence, whether scrutinizing a crawlspace or diving deep into an HOA budget before making an offer. They simplify the decision-making process for their clients by presenting detailed analyses, such as offering comparison spreadsheets. With a firm belief in their expertise, The Laws Collective works tirelessly to ensure client satisfaction. They are committed to creating successful real estate ventures that lead to repeat transactions, and they welcome new clients while valuing the loyalty of existing ones. The team assures clients of their continued support in their real estate journey.
If you're looking to buy or sell a home or have any questions about the Charlotte, NC, real estate market, contact The Laws Collective today.
