Tips for Bringing the Cost Down on Pricey Home Improvements
Home improvement projects are necessary to complete every few years on homes that can begin to look outdated or lose their appeal. Not only can homes become an eyesore, but they can also lose their functionality with growing families or lifestyle changes. Home improvements are a necessary evil for homeowners and can cost a significant amount of money depending on the project. Fortunately, there are a few ways to save with practical tips that prevent cutting too many corners.
Buy Supplies at Auctions
Instead of paying full price for your supplies, attend local building supply auctions, which will give you more leeway to pay what you want and have a more flexible budget. Make a list of what you’re looking to purchase beforehand and do your research to determine the estimated value of each material. Establish a budget for each supply to prevent spending more while you’re in the middle of a bidding war.
Use Ceramic Tiles to Save
When making over your countertops or the interior of a shower, ceramic tiles are an affordable option that can cost a fraction of the cost with granite countertops. According to Centura of Ottawa, the average price of ceramic tiles is $0.21 each, as opposed to $21.00 for a single granite tile. It will work to makeover a decorative backsplash or create a mosaic shower design for a look that is just as attractive and modern.
Plan Around the Discounts
Having patience can pay off by waiting for certain times of the year to purchase your supplies and materials. Wait for special discounts or promotions at your local home improvement stores, which often occurs during the holidays or on the weekends.
Avoid Paying Someone to Haul the Materials
When starting home improvement projects, it’s easy to forget about what you’ll do with the old materials. Discarding a basic appliance can cost an average of $22, which can add up to a significant amount of money for the entire home. Opt for hauling away the junk yourself or contact Habitat for Humanity to have reusable items picked up for free.
Don’t Cut Corners
You want to invest in long term costs, not short term gains. The number 1 rule of any construction or remodel project is to try to do the job right the first time. One design-building firm in Newton, Massachusetts gives the example of clap board siding: You could buy a cheaper, unpainted material, or you can buy the pre-primed and pre-painted siding. The latter variety costs an extra quarter ($0.25) per foot, but you will save yourself tons of money and time on painting. Cutting corners will always come back to bite you!
Work in the Right Season
Many remodels require hiring contractors to do special projects in the home that you can’t do with your own resources. Normally contractors are very busy in the peak season between August and September and as a result, they jack up their prices. You’ll be able to get a much better deal during the off season in January through March because contractors actually want your work. This strategy will be much more useful when it comes to your indoor projects, but if the weather permits, you can get outdoor projects accomplished as well.
Remain frugal with your home improvements by looking for deals, doing more of the work yourself, and purchasing cheaper materials for a great way to get the job done without compromising on the final product. You’ll not only save hundreds to thousands of dollars, but will be able to complete more projects within your budget.
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Category: Home Improvements
