5 ESSENTIAL QUESTIONS TO ASK BEFORE YOU RENOVATE

Upgrading your home can upgrade your life… but how do you know when renovating is the right choice? Ask yourself these important questions before picking a project.

Over time, almost any home could use an upgrade. Not only is wear and tear an issue, but our needs change as we do. Birth, death, marriage, the kids going off to college… all can have a profound impact on the utility of our home and the pleasure we take in it. Home renovation can be an excellent way to improve your quality of life, but is it always the best choice?

By asking yourself these five essential renovation questions, you can gain real insight into the right decision.

1. What are your renovation priorities?

Yes, if you could do it all, it would be great. But odds are you won’t be able to do it all. So brainstorm all of your renovation desires and write them down. Next, rank them by order of importance. Some will be large and some will be small. Consider your budget. Would you be happier with one large revision, or would several small ones be better? Prioritize to clarify!

2. How disruptive will the renovation be to living in your home?

Understanding your appetite for disruption is important. Some renovation projects are minor and may take a day or two. Others could drag on for months and months. What are you willing to tolerate?

3. How will the renovation impact the home’s balance?

Major renovation projects can throw a home’s feel, flow, or look out of line. If you put a commercial-grade, ultramodern kitchen, will the nearby living room look shabby or antiquated? What if you add a bedroom but you only have one bathroom?

4. How long will you enjoy the renovation?

People typically renovate when they’re planning on staying in their home. Which direction is your neighborhood heading? Are you planning to downsize in a couple of years? A renovation may be overkill if you don’t think you’ll stick around long.

5. Will you recoup your investment?

Happiness with your home should be your top priority, but before you renovate you should understand that a major renovation isn’t a guarantee that you’ll get your money out when it’s time to sell. This may or may not be a factor for you.

Your REALTOR® will be perfectly happy to walk through these questions with you. Renovating may be the right choice, but sometimes only a move will do. Either way, your agen is here to help.

Comments

SPRING ROOF INSPECTION

The roof is the one thing between your home and the elements... doesn’t it deserve a little respect? Here are some roof maintenance tips to preserve your home’s value. Ah, the humble roof. We forget that the single most important structural element in our home is the roof. It provides shelter for those we love and the things we value. It’s easy to let maintenance slide on something we take for granted. With better weather days upon us, now is a good time to inspect the roof and make sure it’s up to the task of protecting your home’s value. Here are some crucial elements you’ll want to look for during a roof inspection: Are the gutters clean and in good shape? Organic debris building up in your gutters can cause water to pool and foster an environment for roof rot. Do you see any curling around the bottom edges? Are there any gaps or holes in the soffit? Are there surface cracks in shingles? Cracks warn you of impending disintegration or separati

BUYING YOUR FIRST HOME: SEVEN TIPS FOR FIRST-TIME HOME BUYERS

Now that you've made the decision to purchase your first home, a hearty congratulations is in order! Becoming a homeowner, especially for the first time, can stir up some feelings of anxiety and excitement. With the knowledge that you gain through individual research and the help of your REALTOR®, you will soon begin to feel like a seasoned house hunter. Tip # 1: Do Your Homework Did you know that there are a number of incentives available to first-time home buyers? In Canada, there is the First-Time Homebuyers' (FTHB) Tax Credit. The Government of Canada introduced a FTHB Tax Credit in 2009 — a $5,000 non-refundable income tax credit amount on a qualifying home acquired after January 27, 2009. For an eligible individual, the credit will provide up to $750 in federal tax relief starting in 2009. Another incentive is the Expansion of the Home Buyers' Plan (HBP). To provide first-time homebuyers with greater access to their RRSP savings to purchase or build a

A SPRING SPREAD ANY BUNNY CAN CREATE

(Culinary.net) With spring in the air, it’s the perfect time to invite guests over for a hopping party. It’s also a great opportunity to tackle that dreadful spring cleaning and spruce up your living spaces with vibrant decor for visitors to enjoy alongside a delicious recipe. With this sweet, colorful table arrangement, your whole family can get into the spring spirit. From festive utensils, a bright centerpiece and cute snacks, your spring setup can be fresh and fabulous. It’s simple to put together and easy on the budget. Pair it with appetizers or even a main dish for a full spring party spread that’s sure to impress. Find more springtime recipes at Culinary.net . Watch video to see how to create this Spring Table Spread! Chick Cheese Balls Recipe adapted from Hallmark.com Yield: 10 chicks 1 package cream cheese 1/4 tablespoon garlic powder 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce 1/2 lemon, juice only salt, to taste pepper, to taste 1 cup fine

At Home With Valerie

Search This Blog