Thinking About DIY?
The Covid-19 pandemic has certainly given many people more time for home improvements and DIY projects. If you are feeling late to the game, never fear! We’re here to help you plan (or postpone) your upcoming Spring project.
Weigh the current cost of materials
You may have noticed that the cost of goods like groceries went up during the pandemic, and building materials are no exception. The cost of lumber has doubled, or even tripled in some areas. At this point, it is too early to say whether these prices will return to pre-pandemic levels in 2021, or whether they represent the “new normal.” Historically, when the cost of raw materials like lumber rise, they do not substantially fall again, but the pandemic has shattered trends in almost every sector.
2. Make a plan
So you have decided to bite the bullet on material costs and undertake your DIY project. You’ll need a plan. You should budget the money and time you will need, and as a general rule of thumb, increase your estimates by 20% to ensure that there are no surprises. Think about the scope of your project; is it just a paint job, or are you adding an additional room? One of these is easy to update a few years down the line if you decide you don’t like it, the other is not. Larger projects should have more planning put into them- “Every hour of planning can save 10 hours of work.”
3. Consider Style and Function
You should think holistically about your stylistic choices. A certain color of paint on the wall may look good for that wall, but will it mean that you now need to replace the table or couch because the colors no longer match? This is also a great time to think about your plans for the future. Is this your forever home or are you planning on selling in the distant or not so distant future? If you are getting ready to list, reach out to us! We can help you choose the projects that add the most value to your home.
4. Make it happen!
Plans are useless without action. Once the plan and the funds are in place, it’s time to make the project happen. Set a day (or days) when you will pick up the materials and begin the work. Many intrepid DIYers fail to plan for the follow through, and they end up disappointed when the project takes longer than expected. Is anyone helping you with the project? Make sure they know the plan and are available when you are expecting to begin work.
5. Enjoy your new space!
This is certainly the most important step. Whether you DIY to maximize your investment, or to increase the comfort of your home, it’s important to step back once you are done, pat yourself on the back for a job well done, and enjoy your space to the fullest. Perhaps you celebrate with a special dinner in that newly renovated kitchen, or by reading a new book in that chic office space. Don’t forget, we are always here if you need any assistance in maximizing the value of your home for listing.
Author: James Vaughn