If you have lived in your house for a while, you can probably think of a few details that need to be updated. If the changes you want seem overwhelming, you may even be tempted to just move. However, simply remodeling the house is usually easier and less expensive than buying a new one. Pay attention to the signs that you should remodel the house.
1. Your Family Is Expanding
If you plan to have another child soon, and you are out of bedrooms to spare, you might start yearning for a bigger house. However, you do not have to sell your home to make it bigger, which is good since few people are in a position to sell these days. Instead, hire a contractor to add a room or two to your home. You can even have an extra bathroom added on, as long as you hire someone who knows how to deal with plumbing installation. Even if you are done having kids, you might end up with an older relative moving in with you at some point, which may require extra space.
2. You Plan to Sell the Home Soon
If you have decided that it is time to start over with a different house, you should fix up your current home if you want the best chance of selling it. This means you need to make sure the kitchen and bathrooms in particular have both been modernized in the last few years. Most homebuyers check out these two areas first, so they can make a big difference in whether you end up selling your home quickly or not. Just make sure the costs of the upgrades do not outweigh the amount you will make on the sale.
3. You Constantly Envy the Homes of Others
If, every time you are in someone else’s house, you wish your home looked similar, you should probably remodel. Dreading the return to your home is no way to live. You might not be able to afford a completely new house, but you can likely budget for a few smaller projects. Some popular remodeling ideas include new kitchen countertops, different flooring, and brand new bath vanities and sinks. If your budget is tight and you are somewhat handy, you can buy the materials and install them on your own. Larger remodeling projects, however, should usually be left to the professionals.
4. Your Home’s Theme Has Changed
If you grew tired of the original theme from years ago, and have gradually been changing it, you should consider remodeling to ensure the whole house matches. For example, if you started out with a wine country theme, complete with purple walls and matching countertops, you may need to make some changes if you switch to a jungle theme. This means you might need to paint the walls different colors and switch out the counters so they match. Don’t forget the smaller details, such as changing the style or color of your cabinet knobs so they match the new theme instead of the old one.
5. Your Needs Have Changed Over the Years
Many people buy a house with the intention of it being the last one they live in. However, a home that is comfortable when you are middle-aged will not necessarily meet your needs when you retire. Suddenly, stairs, slippery bathtubs, and low countertops all become bothersome and even dangerous. The same goes for high maintenance floors, and countertops that constantly need to be sealed and scrubbed. If you want a home that feels safe to grow old in, it is time to remodel. You can add handrails to the toilet and tub, or even switch out the tub altogether with a large walk-in shower. You can also change the floors and countertop surfaces so that they are much lower maintenance, yet still look nice.
You will probably start to see at least a few of these signs after spending several years in one house. Remodeling projects are quite popular among homeowners of all types, so talk to friends and relatives to find out more about the changes you want to make. You can find a reputable contractor or home improvement store when you talk to others for recommendations, too.
Author Bio: Drew C. works for an insurance website where you can specifically buy home insurance. When he isn’t working, Drew loves to read, watch sports, and spend time with family.
