Remodeling 101: How to Get the Most Bang For Your Buck

Published: February 28, 2018

You’ve done it. You’ve decided now is the time to tackle that remodeling project you’ve always had your heart set on. Whether it’s a small bathroom or an entire kitchen, you’re going to want to be as prepared as possible mentally, emotionally, and most of all, financially. While you should already have a budget in mind, it’s important to understand the steps you can take to make sure you stay within (or, fingers crossed below) how much you’re looking to spend on your project. Here are some ways to cut costs without sacrificing quality in getting the home of your dreams.

Have An End Goal, But Be Flexible

Chances are if you’re just starting your project, you have a good idea of what you want the end result to look like. Maybe you can just picture the marble tile or the pristine subway tile backsplash. Maybe you’ve always dreamt of a freestanding resin bathtub. Whatever your heart desires, it’s important to still be flexible in your wishlist. For example, if you’ve been eyeing hardwood floors for months, have a color in mind but don’t set your heart on only looking at pristine oak floors. Many engineered floors have the same look and feel as hardwood, but at a lower cost. By being flexible in your method, if not in your end result, you have a better chance of finding discounts and sales. Many times, hardware stores like Lowe’s and Home Depot will have sales on types of flooring that look and feel just like the one you’ve been dreaming of. The same thing applies for any type of supply you’re shopping for. While the material may ultimately be different, you’re still getting the exact look you always wanted at the end of the project.

Shop Around

Whether you’re shopping for supplies or shopping around for someone to do the remodeling for you, it’s important to get as many prices to compare as possible to ensure you’re getting the most bang for your buck. However, remember that cheap isn’t always best. While you may want to spend less money on an electrician, that’s probably not the best idea. When it comes to hiring professionals, it’s smarter to spend a little more than settling for the least expensive quote. When buying supplies, however, it’s a different story. Shopping around at big box retailers can give you an idea of what you should be spending on your materials. And don’t forget to check wholesale distributors and online as well, which will usually end up being cheaper than your big box retailers.

DIY, But Know Your Limits

It’s no secret that DIY-ing is very “in” right now. With HGTV surging in popularity, many people assume they can DIY just about anything. And with a little time on YouTube, you can probably teach yourself how to do most things. DIY-ing a remodeling project is a great way to save money, but there are certain things even YouTube can’t teach. Don’t be afraid to seek out professionals in areas where you don’t feel comfortable “just winging it.” Electricians, plumbers, HVAC professionals are all people who are specifically trained to do what most people can’t. If you’re going to spend a little more in any area, the smartest would be to hire people who are experts instead of trusting Bill’s Handyman YouTube Channel. Otherwise, you might end up trying to DIY it and costing more money in damage repairs than you would’ve paid if you’d hired a professional upfront.

Ask for Help

Another way to save money during your project is to enlist the help of friends and family. Maybe you didn’t know your best friend actually painted houses in the summer in college. Maybe your uncle has every tool you could ever possibly need just sitting in his garage. Asking around for tools and help will make your project more fun and much more affordable in the long run. If you’re looking to paint an entire room, enlist the help of your friends. (You should probably at least provide pizza, though). A remodeling project is supposed to be fun, and it will mean even more if the people you love helped make it a reality. And you never know what kind of skills your family and friends may have that could really help accomplish your overall remodeling goals.

When you’re getting to work on your big or small remodeling project, make sure your belongings stay safe and out of the way with a UNITS storage container. With two sizes to choose from, a UNIT can fit all of your needs and provide peace of mind during the chaos of remodeling.