Remodeling Straight Talk
According to a study at Harvard University, the number home improvement projects undertaken by American homeowners, “which include high-end kitchen and bath remodels,” is projected to grow by almost 40% in the 10 years between 2005 and 2015. Some even predict higher numbers.
Estimated return of 92 percent of what you spend on a kitchen and 105 percent of what you spend on the master bath
Tamara Newwell, CKD, CBD and vice chairman of an advisory council of designers for the National Kitchen & Bath Association advises homeowners not to expect low-cost, quick-fix renovations to pay off very well. A complete renovation is a better investment.
Kitchen remodels are viewed by women consumers as the premier design and remodel project. Men give entertainment spaces, garages and the exterior a higher regard.
Women take the vast responsibility of kitchen and bath decisions. They give more input on style, color, materials and brands.
Sticking to a budget can sometimes be challenging so make sure you set a realistic budget. Don’t cut corners – invest in quality because it will pay off in the long run for sure.
Remodeling is messy and there’s no getting around it. Sometimes projects can take longer, and cost more, than planned.
Do your homework and ask a lot of questions. Be sure the people you hire are reputable and conscientious. They will be worth their weight in gold
It’s wise to hire a general contractor and/or an interior designer to manage your project so you don’t have to. It will be the difference between having peace of mind verses giving some a piece of your mind.
Find the balance…be around enough to know what is going on but stay away enough to keep your sanity.
On tough and noisy days take a break, relax and close your eyes; try to visualize what the room will look like and see yourself enjoying it. Leave the corkscrew out -it is sure to come in handy on days like theseJ
I’ve heard people compare remodeling to giving birth. The pain is only temporary and the end result has a way of making it so worthwhile.
A few words of wisdom:
Pain fades with time
There are no problems – only opportunities
Remodeling is creation, action and collaboration
If you pinch a contractor too tight so they can’t make money, harbor resentment and cut corners then no one will win – you both lose. Make it a win-win situation!
If someone helps you acknowledge them because generous people are hard to come by
Don’t forget to enjoy the experience…your making memories
Remember everything comes to an end so don’t get stressed
© 2010 SANDELLA CUSTOM HOMES AND INTERIORS, LLC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
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About Cheryl:
Cheryl Sandella, Interior Designer ASID Allied Member, works with her husband and partner of 30 years, Al Sandella, General Contractor. They own Sandella Custom Homes and Interiors in Fountain Hills Arizona and design, remodel and build homes in the valley. To read more about her go to http://www.sandella.net/aboutus/aboutus.html
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Cheryl Sandella
Sandella Custom Homes & Interiors
PO Box 18132
Fountain Hills, AZ 85269
480.836.1543 – office
480.816.4233 – Cheryl’s personal line
