Do you long to have a completely redesigned kitchen? Or you’ve always dreamed of having a stunning finished basement? When you buy a fixer-upper, you can make all your dreams come true. You prioritize renovations, give your space a new look, and make it your own.
Keep reading to learn the must-have projects when you buy a fixer upper home.
Start with a Budget in Mind
When you’re planning on buying a fixer upper, the best way to ensure you have enough money is to get the entire renovation job designed. Make sure you decide on a budget and stick to it.
Focus on projects that are necessary to the function of the house. This includes plumbing issues, roofing repairs, and other structural work.
Once a budget is set, you can focus on cosmetic or optional improvements. This includes painting, landscaping, or updating furniture.
Another important consideration is finding ways to save money while you are renovating. Consider installing energy-efficient appliances to save on your utility bills.
You can also look for materials at local discount stores to help lessen fixer upper costs.
Assess the Home’s Foundation and Roof
Assessing the home’s foundation and roof are two of the most critical steps. You should examine the foundation and look for signs of cracks, crumbling, or settling.
Check the top for loose, missing, broken, or damaged shingles. Also, check for any lost, broken, or leaking flashing.
Other signs of damage to look for include damaged gutters and improper ventilation. Make sure to have a professional contractor inspect the home. These are some of the most critical and costly elements to repair.
Focus on Safety and Health Hazards
Identifying and remediating potential safety and health hazards is the utmost important task. Depending on the age of the house, you may also need to have the electrical wiring brought up to code.
You should also check the heating and air conditioning systems as well. You must focus on them before making more cosmetic alterations.
Updating Wiring and Plumbing
Proper electrical wiring limits power surges. Updating outdated plumbing increases the property value.
It also reduces the costs associated with repairs in the future. Special attention to plumbing is necessary since pipes and fixtures corrode over time and may lead to water damage in certain areas of the home.
Consult with a professional to determine the extent of the wiring and plumbing renovations. Remember that these jobs can be expensive, but they are worth the cost in the long run when it comes time to resell your updated home.
Kitchen and Bathroom Upgrades
Kitchens and bathrooms must be functional for a home to be livable.
For the kitchen, replacing countertops, adding new appliances, and more may help make it the envy of the neighborhood. For the bathroom, repairing pipes and fixtures and adding more excellent amenities will freshen up the space and increase home value.
In both areas, painting and upgrading furniture and other decor can also give a dated home a much-needed makeover. While these renovations may be costly up front, they can add value to the house and provide immediate results.
Determine the Cost of Replacing Flooring and Carpeting
Consider if the flooring will need replacement. If the house needs flooring replacement, research local stores for the best selection and quality. It takes into account the costs for both materials and installation. If needing professional help, look for contractors or companies that offer services.
Researching costs is critical to know if you can afford this project and if making a return on investment makes sense. Even if replacing is not cheap, considering flooring repair could be a significant cost savings.
Hire a Professional Cleaning Service
Fixer upper cleaning sets the tone for all other projects. These professional house washing services will help you remove dirt, grime, and other dirt particles that can accumulate over time.
Hiring a professional cleaning service will ensure your home is properly inspected, scrubbed, and disinfected, free of potential health hazards. This will also help you feel safe and secure in your new home, knowing it is as healthy as possible.
Professional cleaners can also help remove odors, stains, and any other debris found in properties.
Increasing Curb Appeal with Exterior Painting and Landscaping
You can increase the curb appeal of a fixer upper house through the planned application of exterior painting and landscaping. Both of these projects are essential for improving the appearance and value of the fixer upper.
Make sure to choose a color that will match the rest of the house’s design. Thoughtful additions such as paving stones, shrubs, and flowers in complementary colors can enhance the appeal of a home.
Invest in Energy Efficiency Renovations
When you buy a fixer-upper, investing in energy-efficiency renovations is an important project to focus on. Not only can implementing these upgrades make a house more livable, but it can also help to lower your long-term energy costs.
Some projects include adding insulation and replacing old appliances with more efficient models. You can even invest in low-flow showerheads and toilets to conserve water.
Energy-efficient LED light bulbs can also be an inexpensive solution to light your home cost-effectively. You could even consider solar panels as a long-term investment. These will save you money on your electricity bills and make you conscious.
Consider These Tips When You Buy a Fixer Upper
When you buy a fixer upper, it’s essential to consider which projects to focus on for renovations. By starting with a budget, assessing the home’s foundation, and familiarizing yourself with the local codes and regulations, you will be in the best possible position to start renovating your home.
Don’t forget the key to a successful fixer-upper project is careful planning and execution. Get started today!
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