Frequently Asked Questions About Remodeling


  

Why Remodel?
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. Remodeling is an investment in your home to ensure longevity, usefulness, and home value.

When is it Time to Remodel?
Perhaps it was that moment when you realized that avocado green and harvest gold are no longer the "in" colors for today's trendy kitchens. Or maybe you had an epiphany one day as you stood in line to use your own bathroom. Whatever the impetus, the thought has crossed your mind: Maybe it's time to remodel ...

If you decide to follow through on that thought, you'll join millions of others who decide to remodel their homes each year. The reasons for remodeling are as varied as the projects we undertake. Some of these include:
  • Adding more space.
  • Upgrading cabinets, counters, appliances and fixtures.
  • Creating a floor plan that's customized for your lifestyle.
  • Improving energy efficiency with new windows, doors, insulation and climate control systems.
  • Increasing the resale value of your home.
How Do I Plan a Remodel?
The first step is to develop an idea of what you want to do. Write a prioritized list of your needs and wants. Look at magazines and websites and collect pictures of what you like. The more clearly you can envision the project and describe it on paper, the better prepared you'll be in making your decision.

Think about traffic patterns, furniture size and placement, colors, lighting and how you expect to use the remodeled space. If your decision to remodel involves creating better access for someone with limited mobility, you may want to consider contacting a Certified Aging-in-Place Specialist.

How Do I Pay for a Remodel?
One of the most important considerations for your home improvement project is financing. After all, the project will go nowhere if you can't pay for it. There are several options that can provide the dollars you need. Four of the most common are a home improvement loan, a home equity line of credit, a home equity loan (second mortgage), and a cash-out refinancing of your current mortgage. While the simplest method of financing is cash, if cash is not an option for your project, meet with your lender to determine what type of funds are available and at what terms.

What Should I Expect During the Remodel?
While remodeling can be an exciting process, it can also present unexpected challenges. Many problems can be avoided by planning ahead.

How Do I Find a Professional Remodeler?
When you hire a remodeler, you are buying a service, not just a product. The quality of service the remodeler provides will determine the quality of the finished product and your satisfaction with the result. To ensure your satisfaction, make sure you hire a qualified, professional remodeler.

Click here to find a professional remodeler in your area, then select "Remodelers - Associate Members" or "Remodelers - Builder Members" from the dropdown menu. You'll find additional categories of professionals in the dropdown menu.

Article Courtesy of the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB).