Thinking about doing home improvements during the pandemic? Turns out, you are not alone. According to a recent survey, 70% of Americans are improving their homes mid-pandemic. Among the groups who are currently into home improvements, millennials are spending the most on their projects.
For Generation Y, they are focused on home improvement. This is since many of them bought older homes that require maintenance and repair. Add the fact that many millennials bought smaller houses. With the shelter in place rules in effect, they are doing what they can to make their current living spaces more comfortable during the quarantine.
As for other generations, many decided to do home improvement projects after spending more time indoors. Since they now have more time in their hands, they decided it is time to finally to make certain improvement. They have three common reasons for home improvements.
Most want to add value to their home. Others want to make their house cozier. Some aim to improve their home to make it easier for them to adapt to quarantine life. If you also plan on doing certain home improvement projects, make sure to ask yourself these questions first.
What Is My Main Goal?
People have different reasons why they want to do home improvements. Most want to boost their home value. Others simply want to make their house look better and feel more comfortable. Some plan to make their house more energy-efficient and eco-friendly. There are also those who just want to improve their home so it can better accommodate their quarantine lifestyle needs.
If you know what your real main goal is, it is easier to determine the best projects to tackle. You get to save money as well as time and energy. This is since you get to reduce the possibility of starting a project only to change your mind.
What Are My Future Plans?
Many people fail to consider their future plans when improving their homes. If you don’t ask yourself what you plan on doing in the near future, then all your hard work can go down the drain. Remember that it is best to align your future plans with your home improvement goals. This way, you can avoid feeling remorseful for making a bad home improvement decision.
For instance, you want to add extra living space in your yard. Before you shop for materials, consider your future plans first. Do you plan on cooking outdoors more often? If this is the case, then you are better off adding an outdoor kitchen and dining area instead of a regular patio.
If you plan on entertaining guests outdoors in the future, then you can consider increasing your patio or decking space. If it often gets too hot or rainy in your area, then you might want to add a cover. Also, consider the materials to achieve the best results. For instance, find yourself local manufacturers who can provide quality plastic sheets in your area. This way, you can be sure of the quality and also save money in the process.
Do you plan on selling your house soon? Then you might want to focus on home maintenance and repairs first. Remember that no matter how beautiful your house maybe, a fixer-upper home can quickly turn off buyers.
Are selling the house soon and still wants to improve it? Then stick to low-cost projects with great return-on-investment. You can never go wrong with landscaping your yard. This is since outdoor improvements are in demand now and post-pandemic. You can also consider a paint job to boost curb appeal.
How Can I Stick to My Budget?
Certain home improvement projects are more costly than the rest. You may already have a plan and budget in mind. You may also have some contractors who can do the project. But know that even the most meticulous people can fail a budgeting. First, assess your financial situation and carve out a budget you can afford.
To increase your chances of sticking to your budget, collect biddings to reduce contractor costs. Don’t hire the first contractor you find. Don’t rush the bidding process. Instead, take your time when making the decision.
Don’t sacrifice quality from quantity or you can feel remorseful in the long run. This pertains to your contractor’s reputation and the quality of the materials you will use. Over-communicate with all the people involved with the project. Always have a budget buffer to avoid future financial hassles.
Again, home improvements can be a good way to spend your spare time during the pandemic. But do consider a reality check before you improve your home. You will find that your plans will change after you ask these three important questions.