Avoiding Financial Mistakes During Home Improvement
Renovators Place Columnist
Oct 08, 2009
Let's face it. Home improvement projects can require a significant outlay of cash (or credit). Here are some common financial mistakes home owners make--with tips on how to avoid them.
Instead, take a month or two to think about your ideal kitchen. How much storage space do you want? Do you want a wall oven or a traditional range? Will you add an island?
While some of these decisions can seem minor, they can quickly add up. In some cases, your inability to make decisions can cause delays with the contractor that lead to wasted time and extra fees.
Home improvement projects can be a challenge to your patience. By avoiding these common financial mistakes, you'll be well on your way to a peaceful conclusion.
About the Author
Allison E. Beatty is a syndicated real estate writer who has been writing home improvement columns for 15 years.
Jumping Into a Kitchen Renovation
A kitchen renovation is a major home improvement project and one that should be preceded by plenty of discussion about cooking and lifestyle needs. Some home owners become so frustrated with their current kitchens that they jump too quickly into a kitchen renovation, which can result in:- Hiring the wrong contractor for the job
- Buying appliances without considering functional and logistical issues
- Ignoring practical issues such as storage
Instead, take a month or two to think about your ideal kitchen. How much storage space do you want? Do you want a wall oven or a traditional range? Will you add an island?
Hiring the Wrong Contractor
Hiring the wrong contractor can lead to major financial issues, as he or she ends up wasting your money through unscrupulous means, lack of management skills or by hiring unskilled workers. Take the time now to interview several contractors and check references. Look at their previous work and ask plenty of questions about their work habits.Do You Avoid Details?
A kitchen renovation or other home improvement project involves plenty of small details. If you are someone who prefers to look at the big picture, find someone else to handle details such as:- Deciding which appliance features you want
- Ordering cabinet hardware and wall tile
- Buying light fixtures
While some of these decisions can seem minor, they can quickly add up. In some cases, your inability to make decisions can cause delays with the contractor that lead to wasted time and extra fees.
Home improvement projects can be a challenge to your patience. By avoiding these common financial mistakes, you'll be well on your way to a peaceful conclusion.
About the Author
Allison E. Beatty is a syndicated real estate writer who has been writing home improvement columns for 15 years.
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