Ways to Trim Remodeling Costs

Quality vs. Price

Remodeling isn't inexpensive. That doesn't mean you can't trim excess costs out of your plan and remodel your kitchen or bath on a limited Budget. You just have to know where to trim and where not to.

Everyone wants to save money. Unfortunately, it is not always a wise decision to base decisions on cost alone. If you select an inferior product because it is cheaper, you may end up needing to replace it within a short time period which will cost you more in the long run. It is far better to determine the durability of the product (its life span) and divide by the cost. This will show you how much the product is costing you over time, not only in the initial days of the project.

Is that Price a Little TOO Right?

Another place to be careful cutting costs is when selecting your Contractor. The low-ball bid may be a sign of poor workmanship, poor business practices or of a potential problem. Your project's success will be directly linked to the skill and experience of your Contractor. Take time to interview contractors and their former clients to determine who will be the best choice based on the work, not price. You will be happier in the end. Another benefit of hiring a skilled professional is the experience he or she will bring to the project. A professional Contractor can make recommendations for less-costly alternatives that will accomplish your goals for remodeling. This expertise is part of what you will be paying for.

Where can you cut costs without worry? In your product selection. The products you choose will determine the bulk of your budget. If you lean toward solid surface counters and professional ranges for your kitchen, you will not be considering a thrifty remodel. However, if you just want a new counter because the old one is stained and you want a new oven because you hate the color of your old one, you can save money.

Installation vs. Product Cost

You can save even more if you are aware of how labor intensive certain projects are. Even if the material itself costs the same, the installation fee could push you over budget. Installing a custom pattern in your tile floor will automatically cost more than using the same tile throughout the room. And tile of any kind will cost more than installing laminate or vinyl flooring. Considering the labor requirements before you select a particular product, is an easy way to trim costs.

One of the best ways to approach a budget remodel is to determine your needs. Why do you want to remodel? What are you hoping to accomplish? This will show you whether you need structural changes or merely a facelift.

Structural changes are any modification to a room that alters the existing structure. If you plan on bumping out a wall or adding a room, you are considering a structural change. Even moving a wall or adding a skylight over your tub is considered structural.

POP QUIZ

True or False

1. Most homeowners don't remodel new homes. They wait until just before resale to do home improvement projects.
   True False
2. Remodeling can increase the value of my investment.
   True False
3. The amount of increase depends on my area, the project and the home.
   True False
4. I can spend as much as I like on remodeling as long as I can pay the bills.
   True False
5. The most important part of any remodeling project is the plan.
   True False
6. DIY projects are a great idea for cutting costs and should be considered by everyone.
   True False
7. You can't have a good remodeling project without lots of money.
   True False
8. The important thing is getting everything done immediately.
   True False
9. Choosing a remodeler is easy. There are so many of them to choose from.
   True False
10. Product choice drives a good part of the remodeling Budget.
    True False

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