Blog & Social

Do: Consider Resale Value
Life can be unexpected. While you may think you are in your forever home, things can change. Take this into account during your remodel. Choosing bold, one-of-a-kind pieces may suit your current style but, may put you at a disadvantage when it comes time to sell. Perhaps instead of installing bright red fixtures throughout your home, add pops of colour with throw pillows, curtains, and other décor pieces.

Don’t: Always DIY
Your home is a large investment, and any renovations need to be carefully considered – especially if you are remodeling a kitchen or bathroom. Not only do electric and plumbing hookups need to be functional on their own, they need to work within the design of adjoining rooms. Experienced professionals ensure that the proper materials and methods are used to carry out a safe and successful project.

Do: Invest in Quality Appliances
Appliances are something you use every day. Do your research, read reviews, and understand your warranty. Whether it’s for the kitchen, a washer and dryer, or a furnace; reliable, efficient appliances will positively impact your lifestyle and your bills, not to mention impress potential buyers when you go to sell.

Don’t: Hire a Contractor Solely Based on Price
Renovating is expensive and finding ways to save money is key. However, there is a reason one contractor may charge twice as much as another. Figure out why there is such a difference in price and what that might mean to you. The true cost of remodelling is getting the value out of what you are paying for. Lower prices may mean lower quality material, craftmanship, or warranty. Even though you are investing more dollars to start, taking the time to properly research your contractor, could save you money in the long run.

Do: Improve Energy Efficiency
With energy costs on the rise, having a home that is both environmentally friendly and cost effective is a win-win. Getting a professional energy audit and addressing any problems identified can be a simple solution to a potentially expensive problem while also boosting your home’s energy efficiency.

Don’t:  Delay decisions.
To ensure a smooth process, make as many decisions as possible before work starts. Your contractor can go through a list of various scenarios that can occur, so you can prepare a contingency plan. Big problems are usually easy to solve; it is the small decisions like selecting paint, trim style, and plumbing hardware that can stall the process. These may seem small, but if a faucet is two weeks late, the plumber will need to be rescheduled, which in turn, could cause the countertops to be delayed, which pushes back final touch ups. This is how something small can cause an extra week to be added to a five-week project.

The Ottawa Home and Remodelling Show takes over the EY Centre January 17-20, 2019. Don't have your tickets yet? Buy online and SAVE $3.

JANUARY 17-20, 2019
EY CENTRE