During National Remodeling Month in May, consider upgrading your home to increase your familys comfort and at the same time add value to what may be your most important financial asset.
For many homeowners, the equity in your home comprises a larger portion of your net wealth than your investment in your stock market or retirement fund? Despite everything you might be reading about the current housing market, historically housing has proven to be a stable and sound investment compared to conventional financial investments that rise and fall with regular frequency,
Why Consider Remodeling?
Remodeling your home can modernize the style, make it more comfortable, improve energy-efficiency and home functionality, increase the value of your home, and help with upkeep and maintenance.
Although very few of us purchase a home strictly for financial reasons, in practical terms it represents an asset that can pay high returns. A home that is well-maintained and offers up-to-date systems and amenities will have a higher value than a comparable home that is poorly maintained or lacking the conveniences and extra living space that appeal to today’s home buyers. Remodeling is a sure investment in your home to ensure longevity, usefulness, and home value.
Remodeling also allows you to customize your home to meet your needs and desires, without giving up your familiar neighborhood or changing the schools your kids attend. Whether you want to improve the energy-efficient of your home and lower your utility bills, add space, accommodate lifestyle changes such as new children or aging, or simply incorporate new amenities, remodeling provides an alternative to moving. Improving energy efficiency, adding a new master suite or playroom, upgrading kitchens and baths, or finishing a basement or popular remodeling projects, while modifications designed to allow residents to “age in place” are becoming increasingly widespread with baby boomers and retirees.
Where Should You Start?
Before you begin remodeling, it's a good idea to think through your wants and needs. First, decide what changes you would like to make—ask yourself and your other family members what you like and dislike about your house. Consider what options may be most useful for you in the future. For example, if you’re planning to stay in your home through retirement, you may want to consider features such as wider doors, grab bars and better lighting to allow you to comfortably “age in place.” After you’ve thought of all the improvements you’d like to make to your home, create a prioritized list.
Once you’ve decided on the project, think about traffic patterns, furniture placement, colors, lighting, and how you want to use the remodeled space now and in the future. Look at magazines and collect pictures of what you like. When you meet with your remodeler, this will help you both to work together and achieve the results you want.
How Do You Find A Qualified Remodeler?
I’ll answer that question and discuss other remodeling topics in my future blogs. Check back regularly. In the interim, you can visit our website www.chuckmillerconstruction.com for more information on the remodeling services we provide.
Chuck Miller GMB CGB MIRM CMP MCSP CSP
President / Builder – Chuck Miller Construction Inc.
(208) 229-2553