The first few months of the year is one of the best times to plan major home renovations and repairs. All homes need periodic updates and repairs, but many homeowners wait until something breaks down or stops working to make these repairs.
A smart approach to home maintenance is to plan for major repairs or updates early in the year. By planning ahead for necessary work, you’ll not only be able to factor the cost of repairs into your budget, but you’ll likely save money as well. When you plan ahead for home repairs and upgrades, you have time to find a service provider who will perform high-quality work and do it at a fair price.
Evaluate
One of the first steps in planning ahead for major annual home repairs is to conduct a complete home assessment. You’ll need a comprehensive list of everything in and around your home that may need replacement or repair.
For example, many homeowners find it helpful to create a system – such as a binder or online calendar – to keep track of the age and condition of items such as the fence, roof, appliances, windows, paint, carpet or landscaping. This way, you will know when scheduled maintenance and repairs are due. Also, if you have any renovations on your wish list for this year, make sure you have a space for them as well.
While you’re evaluating your home, keep an eye out for good deals or savings opportunities. If you’ve seen businesses offering discounted services or special offers, or know that certain services are less expensive at certain times of the year, plan accordingly. For example, it can be difficult and expensive to find someone to repair your air conditioner in the summer months. The best option is to order the work in the off-season – early spring or late fall – when there is not as much work and discounts may be available.
The same goes for landscaping upgrades and repairs. There are seasonal companies available to help you with your landscaping needs year-round, so it’s a good idea to make a plan now and get your upgrades and repairs done before the seasonal rush. Keep your garden impeccable with the help of professionals.
Prioritize
The next step in advance planning for home renovations and repairs is to figure out which items on the list need to be done first. If problems with a leaky pipe or roof are looming, these are projects you should prioritize.
Major repairs that could seriously compromise the appearance and function of the home should also be at the top of the list. For example, if you’ve noticed problems with your home’s electrical system, it’s a good idea to hire professionals to check it out as soon as possible.
Once you’ve completed the highest priority projects, review the other projects on the list, assign each a priority number, and begin making repairs in that order.
Budget and Timeline
Once you know what needs to be done and in what order, it’s time to figure out the budget and timeline. First, figure out how much each repair or renovation will cost, how long it will take, and when in your schedule it makes sense to do it.
To make this step easier, you may need the help of professional home repair service providers.
For example, if your home is in dire need of a new paint job, ask professionals to come in and give you an estimate for the project and tell you how long the job will take. These estimates will make it easier for you to know exactly what you will need to get the job done. You can then finalize your plan and schedule a time to have your walls fixed and looking beautiful.
If your wish list includes more major or costly renovations, such as a new roof, replacing windows throughout the house, or remodeling major rooms, consider making a longer-term plan.
For example, you may not be able to afford some of the more expensive renovations right now, but if you create a plan and a budget and set aside money each month, you will be able to do so in the future. In this way, having a long-term plan ensures that major repairs to your home are on target.
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