Home renovation costs can quickly spiral get out of control if you’re not careful, but there are many things you can do to make your project a success without going over budget. See our home renovation tips to help you save money!
Essential Home Renovation Tips
1. Make and Follow a Budget
Keep costs down by having a budget and sticking to it. When creating a home renovation budget, decide which features are the most important and allocate your funds appropriately. Create a spreadsheet and add everything you want to buy such as flooring, lighting, faucets, paint, countertops, cabinet hardware, tile, grout, appliances, etc.
A spreadsheet will show you the areas that are eating up your budget, allowing you to make adjustments whether it’s selecting less expensive materials or cutting items altogether. It’s also a good idea to add a buffer to your budget for unexpected expenses.
2. Don’t Rush Decisions
Home renovation projects are exciting, but that doesn’t mean you should jump in head first before having a solid plan. Rushing the planning and decision-making process can cause you to regret some choices down the road. Instead, consider every detail so you don’t end up wasting time and money.
3. Hire the Right Contractor
Select a contractor with plenty of home renovation experience and who has a good reputation to ensure you’re getting the best quality of work at a fair price. Check out their online reviews and/or ask family and friends for recommendations. Another tip to possibly save money is to arrange your home renovation project for the off-season since summers and holidays are often the busiest times of the year for contractors.
4. Reuse Materials
Refacing cabinet doors instead of completing replacing cabinetry can save you a lot of money. In addition to using what you already have, consider buying material and fixtures from salvage yards, building material auctions, or even buy/sell/trade websites. Not only is this a great way to cut costs, but you’re also helping the planet by keeping these items out of landfills.
5. Balance High and Low-End Materials
One way to use your budget smarter is to spend more on statement items, such as granite countertops, and less in other areas. While this will vary depending on your project and style preferences, remember to strike a balance. You don’t want to pair extremes like a cheap countertop material with expensive appliances.
6. Wait For Sales Before Making Big Purchases
Save money on big purchases like electronics and furniture by researching what’s the best time to buy. Impatience can prevent you from finding a good deal. If you really can’t wait, another way to save money is to buy scratch-and-dent appliances or floor models.
7. Look for Cost-Saving Opportunities
Although energy-saving appliances have a higher upfront cost, you’ll see the return on your investment by having lower utility bills. Other cost-saving opportunities to look for are with windows, doors, and insulation. Again, the energy-saving versions tend to cost more upfront, but you’ll save money on electricity because your AC won’t have to work as hard to keep your home cool – which is particularly important when living in South Florida.
8. Sell Anything You’re Not Using
Before throwing away old fixtures, cabinets, appliances, etc., try selling them on buy/sell/trade sites like Craigslist, OfferUp, or Facebook Marketplace. If you have trouble finding buyers, go to scrapyards where you can exchange metal items for cash. Don’t need the money or want to deal with the hassle of selling? Consider donating your items to your local Habitat for Humanity ReStore.
South Florida Home Renovation Services
With these money-saving home renovation tips, you’ll be able to achieve a beautiful home that won’t get you into debt. Also, save yourself the stress of planning and coordinating the project by finding a trustworthy contractor, like Platinum Sand Construction. We have over 25 years of combined experience with home renovation, kitchen remodeling, bathroom remodeling, pavers, and more. Check out our home renovation work!
Call 561-299-4000 or schedule a free quote to start planning your home renovation in West Palm Beach, Boca Raton, Boynton Beach, Delray Beach, or wherever you’re located in South Florida.
