A house remodel can be a great way to add value to your home or simply update your living space. However, it can also be a major expense. If you’re looking to remodel on a budget, here are some tips from ROi Construction and Home Remodel on how to cut costs.
1. Choose a simple design for your remodel
When you’re remodeling your house, it’s tempting to go all-out with a design that’s luxurious and over-the-top. But doing so can be incredibly expensive–much more so than sticking to a simple and understated design. So before you start planning your remodel, take a step back and ask yourself whether you really need all those extra bells and whistles. Could you be just as happy with a more minimalist design? Probably.
2. Use recycled or repurposed materials where possible
Not only does using recycled or repurposed materials make your house remodel more environmentally friendly, but it can also save you money. Often, these materials can be sourced for free or at a discount, and they can often be used in creative ways to achieve the look you want. For example, you can use reclaimed lumber to create a custom countertop or accent wall, or you can use old window frames to create a unique door. Get creative and see what interesting materials you can find lying around your house or neighborhood!
3. Finding affordable labor
One of the best ways to save on a house remodel is to find affordable labor. You can do this by looking for freelancers or by negotiating a lower rate with contractors. You can also look for workarounds, such as enlisting family and friends to help out or doing some of the work yourself. Whatever route you choose, always make sure you get multiple estimates and compare prices. Remember, it’s always better to ask for a discount than to overspend on your remodel!
4. Negotiate with contractors
Contractors will often work with you on price if they know you’re budget-conscious. You can try negotiating a lower price or requesting a payment plan. Some contractors may also be willing to give you a discount if you pay in cash. It never hurts to ask!
5. Plan ahead and do some of the work yourself
Nearly any renovation project can be tackled by the homeowner with a little bit of planning and elbow grease. In some cases, it might even be more cost-effective to do some of the work yourself. For smaller projects, like painting or replacing cabinet hardware, you can probably do the job yourself without too much trouble. You can also save money by doing some of the demolition or construction work yourself. Just make sure you know what you’re doing and take all necessary precautions to avoid injury.
6. Shop around for materials
When it comes to materials, it pays to shop around. Get multiple estimates and compare prices between different stores. You might be surprised at how much you can save just by being a savvy shopper. Plus, you can often find coupons or discounts online or in-store circulars.
7. Don’t forget the little things
In any house remodel, it’s the little things that add up–and they can also add up quickly. So when you’re planning your budget, make sure you factor in the cost of things like light fixtures, hardware, appliances, and flooring. Often, these items can be sourced affordably if you know where to look. For example, you might be able to find deeply discounted items at a store like Home Depot or Lowe’s.
8. Consider a partial remodel
If you’re really strapped for cash, consider doing a partial remodel instead of a complete one. This might mean only renovating one room or part of your house, or it might mean choosing to do cosmetic updates instead of major structural ones. Either way, a partial remodel can still make a big impact without breaking the bank.
9. Wait for sales
If you’re patient, you can often find great deals on materials and appliances by waiting for sales. Major holidays like Memorial Day and Labor Day are typically when retailers offer their biggest discounts. So if you can wait to start your remodel, it might pay off in the long run.
10. Get creative with storage
If you’re remodeling a small space, one way to save money is to get creative with your storage. This might mean installing shelves or hooks instead of cabinets or using underutilized spaces like the space under your stairs. Whatever route you choose, think outside the box, and you might be surprised at how much storage you can actually fit into a small space.
11. Stay on trend
If you want to save money, it’s usually best to stay on trend. That way, you won’t have to worry about your house looking dated in a few years and needing another costly update. Instead, by staying on trend, you can be confident that your house will continue to look stylish for years to come.
Conclusion
Remodeling your house can be a great way to make it feel like new again. But it doesn’t have to cost a fortune. By following these tips, you can cut costs and save money on your next house remodel.