Budgeting Home Improvement Projects

Many people have a big desire to start home improvement projects during the spring.  You could be thinking of starting projects to remodel your kitchen, updating your landscaping or adding a garage.  Before starting a project, consider sitting down and planning out your budget before you begin.

1) Decide if the project can be done by yourself or with friends and family (your volunteers!).

2) Establish a budget with a 10 to 20% buffer for last minute decisions and surprises.

3) Keep all your contracts, receipts, canceled checks, etc. in case of desputes.

4) Keep checking up on your contractors progression and continue asking questions as it is your money.

5) Make sure an adult is at home to supervise and watch out for how long lunch hours are usually taking.

6) Follow your instinct when interviewed contractors.  Ask multiple questions and get references.

7) Contact all the references given to get the truth.

Give the contractor only a small down payment with a pre-established pay schedule to motivate the completion of the job..and for it to be done on time.

9) Inspect the work as it is being done to make sure it is up to par to your needs.