Are you considering renovating a fixer-upper home? If so, you’re in for a treat! Renovating a fixer-upper can be an incredibly rewarding experience, but it can also be a lot of work. That’s why we’ve put together this ultimate guide on renovating a fixer-upper home. This guide will walk you through every step of the renovation process, from assessing your needs to hiring contractors to dealing with permits. So whether you’re just starting to think about renovating a fixer-upper or you’re already in the thick of things, this guide will help you get the job done right.
The administrative side
What to Consider Before Starting
Starting a renovation project on a fixer-upper home can be exciting, but it can also be daunting. However, there is much more to renovating a house than meets the eye, and there are some things to consider before beginning.
First and foremost, you want to make sure that you have done your due diligence when it comes to researching the property. Investigate records for any outstanding liens or legal issues associated with the property. Make sure that all building codes and zoning laws are up-to-date and in compliance with city regulations. Also, ensure that you check out the neighborhood; make sure it is safe and desirable, as this will help maintain or even increase your property’s value over time.
Next, you need to be aware of any potential costs that could arise during the renovation process. Do some research on materials and labor costs in your area and create a budget for the entire project with room for unexpected expenses. It is also important to keep future resale value in mind when choosing materials (hint: wood floors, stainless appliances, and neutral colors tend to appeal to buyers).
Finally, make sure that you are prepared for the amount of time it will take to complete the project. Renovations can often take longer than expected due to unforeseen events such as weather delays or changes in plans/materials midway through a project. Be realistic about how much free time you have available and plan accordingly so that you don’t become overwhelmed.
Finding the Right People for the Job
Once you have all of your pre-renovation tasks in order, it’s time to find the right people for the job. You may be tempted to take on some of the renovations yourself, but it is important to consider both your skillset and available resources when making this decision. If you do decide that you would like assistance, there are several options available.
If you are comfortable doing some of the work yourself, hiring an experienced contractor might be a good option. Look for contractors with experience working with fixer-upper homes and who can provide references upon request. Be sure to ask plenty of questions about their experience and qualifications. In addition to talking with contractors, you can also look for help on social media, online forums, or classified ads.
Working With Your Contractors
Once you have found the right people for your renovation project, it’s time to get started! Before beginning any work, make sure that a detailed contract is in place outlining what is expected of each party involved. This includes payment details, timeline estimates, and any other necessary information. Once the contract is signed by all parties involved, be sure to keep copies on file and use them as a reference when checking in throughout the process.
It is important to remember that communication between contractor and homeowner is key during a renovation project. Make sure that you are available for questions or to make decisions as needed, and be sure to keep your contractor updated on any changes in plans or materials.
Also, think about the safety of everyone involved. Be sure to check with your contractor about any necessary safety precautions and make sure that all workers are properly trained and certified in their respective fields.
Dealing with Permits
In most cases, contractors will take care of the permit process when renovating a fixer-upper home. However, it is important that you understand what permits are necessary for your particular project before beginning any work, as failure to do so could result in fines or even legal action.
Even if your contractor is taking care of obtaining the necessary permits, it is still a good idea to double-check with local authorities just to be safe. In addition, if you are doing any work yourself, be sure to research and understand your local regulations prior to starting, as some projects require permits even when done by homeowners.
The renovation step-by-step
Start with the structural issues
Before you start worrying about paint colors and furniture choices, it’s important to look at the structural integrity of your home. Structural issues are any major problems with the physical structure of your house, such as roof leaks, foundation issues, or water damage. These can be incredibly expensive to repair, so it’s important to find out what you’re dealing with before you move forward with any renovations.
Have a professional assess the condition of your house and make sure you understand exactly how much work will need to be done and how much it will cost. Don’t forget to check for mold, too. Mold can be hidden behind drywall, in ductwork, or even under carpets and will need to be taken care of before you move forward with any other renovations.
Tend to the roof next
The roof is one of the most important parts of your house, and it’s essential to make sure that it is in good condition. Have a professional come out to inspect your roof and check for any leaks or other damage. Depending on what they find, you may need to repair existing damage or even replace the entire roof.
This can be an expensive project, but it’s absolutely necessary to protect your home from future water damage. Be sure to get several quotes from different contractors before making any decisions about who will perform the work.
You could also consider adding insulation to your roof. This can help keep your home warm in the winter and cool in the summer, potentially saving you money on energy bills. To get started, contact your local insulation contractor and ask them to assess the condition of your roof.
Prioritize plumbing issues
Another important step when renovating a fixer-upper home is to address any plumbing issues. Plumbing problems can be difficult, time-consuming, and expensive to repair, so it’s important to make sure that everything is in good working order before moving forward with the project. Have a professional emergency plumber come out and inspect the house for any potential problems. They should check all fixtures and pipes for leaks or damage, as well as check all connections to ensure they are up to code.
In some cases, you may need to reroute existing pipes in order to fit new appliances or furniture into the space. If this is the case, it’s important to have a professional do the work, as incorrect plumbing can cause serious problems down the line.
Take care of any electrical issues
Another important step in renovating a fixer-upper home is to take care of any electrical issues. This includes checking all wiring, outlets, and light fixtures for safety hazards like exposed wires or fire hazards. It’s also essential to make sure that all wiring meets local codes and regulations.
Have an experienced electrician come out and inspect your home before making any changes. They should be able to tell you what needs to be updated or repaired in order for your wiring to meet code requirements. Be sure to get several quotes from different electricians before making any decisions about who will perform the work.
Repair or replace windows and doors
Windows and doors are crucial parts of a home, not only because they provide light and ventilation but also for security reasons. Make sure to check that all windows and doors open properly, close securely, and don’t have any cracks or gaps which could let in cold air. If you find any problems with the windows or doors, consider repairing them first if possible. However, if the damage is too extensive, then consider replacing them instead.
Paint and decorate your home
Once you’ve taken care of all of the structural issues in your house, it’s time to start thinking about paint colors, décor, and furnishings. This is the fun part of renovating a fixer-upper home, but it can also be overwhelming. Start out by choosing a few colors that you like and then use those as the basis for your design scheme.
When it comes to furniture, consider purchasing pieces that are timeless and classic so that they don’t go out of style after only a few years. In addition, it’s important to take into consideration how much wear and tear these pieces will get, as well as any pets or children who may live in the house. Finally, don’t forget about accessories! These small items are essential for adding personality to your home and making it feel complete.
In conclusion, renovating a fixer-upper home can be a tedious task, but with the right knowledge and preparation, it can also be an exciting and rewarding process. Carefully assess any issues before starting work, prioritize repairs based on safety and importance, and don’t forget to have fun with paint colors and décor! With some hard work and dedication, you’ll soon have your dream home.
