by Taha E.H | Mar 24, 2022 | Projects, Roofing
With some planning and careful reflection, you can avoid regret and love your remodel for years to come.
The internet is full of stories about people who regret their remodeling choices from the past few years. A significant contributor is that the COVID-19 pandemic dramatically changed the way we spend time in our homes. However, there are a number of common renovation mistakes people make that leave them wishing they’d done something different.
If you’re thinking about a remodel, consider these tips to ensure that you’ll love the final result:
Don’t default to the cheapest remodeling contractors you can find.
It’s tempting to go for the most affordable option—but there might be a reason for the price. Maybe they’re inexperienced, or they use cheap materials. Or perhaps they’re just not very good at what they do.
Of course, the cheap contractor may end up being the best choice. But don’t make that decision before doing your research. Instead, read their testimonials and ask for photos of their recent projects. And get a few quotes from other contractors, so you have grounds for comparison.
In a similar vein, don’t assume DIY is the cheapest option for your home remodel either. It’s only a money-saving choice if you know you can do it well. Otherwise, you’ll end up paying to get it fixed anyway. So be honest with yourself about what you can realistically do on your own.
Be a little generous with your home renovation budget.
Choosing cheap every time can be a recipe for home renovation regret. But if you go too low on your budget, you may not have a choice. So don’t build your budget around the lowest prices in your area. Instead, leave some wiggle room so you can invest in the right contractors, not the cheapest ones. Be mindful of balance, though: You don’t want to go broke!
Plan your home renovation around your family’s needs—now and in the future.
The planning stage of a home renovation project is a good time for a family heart-to-heart. You can make better long-term remodeling decisions when you’re clear on where you’re headed as a family.
For example, if it’s just you and your partner, you might not need a big mudroom for now. But if you’re planning for children, there are a lot of shoes, jackets, and sports bags in your future. So build the big closet now, so it’s ready for all those little boots and soccer cleats when the time comes. Otherwise, you might have to renovate again—with kids underfoot this time.
Think about seasonal changes in your area.
If you’re renovating in late summer, you may have forgotten what winter is like. But it’s essential to plan a renovation that suits your climate. Think about where you’ll keep boots and jackets in the winter or tennis rackets in the summer. Create an airy sunroom that can be sealed and enjoyed in chilly weather. Be realistic about how you use your space year-round and plan accordingly.
This applies to outdoor spaces as well. For example, a pergola or patio cover is an excellent investment in a warm state like Texas. But if it snows six months out of the year, you might wish you’d spent that money elsewhere.
Be cautious about trendy home renovation and design choices.
Unless you’re planning to renovate every year, don’t go for all the latest fads. This is especially true for long-lasting decisions. For example, you can cover up a regrettable paint job in a day, but replacing tile or woodwork is expensive. It’s also worth noting that opting for trendy over classic can affect the resale value of your house. For example, future buyers may be more likely to bite if you go for white subway tile instead of something pink.
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Are you feeling confident about your home renovation choices? Then, contact the Texas Home Improvement team for help with replacement windows, exterior paint, patio covers, and pergolas. We also specialize in roof repair and replacement.
by Taha E.H | Jan 7, 2022 | Projects
Financing a home improvement project doesn’t have to be complicated. But you do need to do your research.
The greatest mystery behind the home renovations on HGTV and Instagram isn’t the paint color or the sofa brand. Instead, it’s that all-important question: How are they paying for all that?
Many influencers and TV stars can lean on brand sponsorships to cover the cost of their new kitchen. But, of course, that’s not an option for most people.
So we’ve rounded up a few different ways you can bankroll the renovation of your dreams.
Pay for renovations in cash.
If you can’t get a cushy brand sponsorship, this is the next best thing. Make a plan, save your money, and pay in cash. Paying in cash means no interest payments or confusing loan paperwork. It also comes with the immense satisfaction of writing a hefty check and being done with it.
But saving up that much cash can take time. Some repairs can’t wait. And sometimes, you don’t want to wait. In that case, cash may not be the right choice.
Another thing to consider: If paying cash will deplete your emergency fund, don’t do it. The world’s most beautiful kitchen will not rescue you in a time of crisis. Make sure you’ll still have enough money to cover an emergency before you consider paying in cash.
Take out a Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC)
You can borrow money against the equity you have on your home with pretty low-interest rates. You usually need at least 20% equity in the home before you qualify for a cash-out refinance, but this can be a great option.
Keep in mind that there are usually some of the associated fees, such as appraisals.
Apply for a Home Improvement Program (HIP) Loan.
Some local governments in the United States offer Home Improvement Program (HIP) loans at very low-interest rates.
There are some limitations on what types of remodeling projects qualify and how much money one can borrow. Do some research and make sure you understand all the loan terms.
But if you qualify, it’s tough to beat the interest rates of a HIP loan.
Get a loan from your bank.
Interest rates on small personal loans can be pretty high, so tread carefully.
Talk to a banker, explore your options, and don’t be afraid to shop around. Banks will have different offerings, so you may consider building a relationship somewhere new. As always, do your research, read the fine print, and make sure you understand the loan terms.
And, of course, have a plan for paying it off, so you don’t get hit with massive interest rates.
Use a credit card.
A credit card is always an option but do proceed with caution. Do your research carefully and read every word of the fine print. Look around for credit cards that offer a few months of 0% APR.
Make a plan to pay it off as soon as possible, and stick to it. If you put it off and miss your window, the interest rates can be devastatingly high. Don’t take this route if you have any concerns about paying off a credit card on time.
A credit card can be an option, but only with extensive research and an airtight plan.
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When it comes to paying for home renovations, you have many options. Take the time to do your research and get clear on what you can afford to finance a home improvement project.
by Taha E.H | Jan 7, 2022 | Projects
Take advantage of the cold-weather lull by tackling a few creative winter home improvement jobs around your home.
With the magic of the holidays behind us, many are feeling a little glum about the cold months ahead. It can feel like the only cure for cabin fever is a plane ticket somewhere warm and tropical. Thankfully, there are many ways to make your own home feel a little cozier as you brave this chilly season.
Paint a room—even if it’s a small one.
Bring some color and novelty to your home with a fresh coat of paint. Save yourself from overwhelm and disruption by choosing a low-traffic space, like a guest bathroom or your laundry room.
Here’s the fun part: When painting a smaller room, you can take a risk with a bold, unexpected color. For example, a purple hall closet is sure to brighten the darkest winter days. Here’s another idea: Paint your kid’s room. Your child will probably be thrilled with a crazy color.
Thanks to the miracle of low-VOC paint, you don’t need to open every window in the house for ventilation. Instead, just run a fan and steer clear for a day or two, and you’ll be fine.
Replace your faucets and taps.
Faucets and taps are so commonplace that we often forget to upgrade them. Swap out your battered hardware for something new and enjoy an extra shine in the kitchen and bathroom.
Have fun shopping around for useful features, like a pull-out sprayer or touch activation. You might even buy a new showerhead and make all those hot showers a little more luxurious.
Paint your garage floor.
It sounds boring, but a new garage floor can boost your home’s resale value. And with less dust and grass blowing around, winter’s a good time to do it.
Park the car outside for a day or two, bundle up, and get to work. Be sure to do a little research and find an epoxy designed especially for garage floors. And read the instructions very carefully. Your space will look much spiffier without all those grease stains and tread marks.
Seal up cracks around the house.
Put some hot chocolate in a to-go mug, bundle up, and take a walk around your house after dark. Look for light leaking through cracks around windows and doors. Those are the areas you’ll want to seal up. As a result, you’ll stay warmer and more comfortable, and your utility bill will be lower.
Replace windows and doors.
In some states, like Minnesota or North Dakota, you’d never dream of replacing your windows in the winter. It’s just too cold. But in Texas, where winter is much milder, it’s an option.
A good contractor will work on just one window at a time, so your family doesn’t have to freeze. Plus, those new windows will insulate your house better year-round. You’ll save a lot of money on heating and cooling in the long run.
Start saving up for your warm-weather home renovations.
Some renovations are simply better suited to spring, summer, and fall. But in the meantime, tackle a small winter home improvement or two, but also take advantage of this lull to sock money away for your next big project.
You might even make saving money a game with your family. Enjoy the freedom to dream big. Once the weather warms up, you can get started.
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If you’re thinking about an upgrade this spring or summer, get in touch with the team at Texas Home Improvement. We can get your project scheduled so you can start counting down the days.
by Taha E.H | Nov 24, 2021 | Projects
Make the most of fall and winter by using this time to dream big and make a plan for your home remodeling ideas next year.
Cold weather may not be ideal for home remodels, but it’s perfect for finding inspiration. So if you’re aiming for a refresh in 2022, now’s the time to start making a plan. We’re sharing our top tips for making the most of the cozy season so you can begin your remodel with confidence.
Things to remember when you’re looking for inspiration
It’s fun to let your imagination run wild! But there are a few parameters to keep in mind when you’re collecting inspiration:
- Your budget. If you know you don’t want to pay for terrazzo floors, don’t spend all your time Googling them. Look for ideas that fit your budget.
- Form and function. Keep in mind the daily reality of your remodel vision, and make sure it’s realistic for your lifestyle. For example, if you never work from home, a home office probably isn’t the best use for that extra bedroom. On the other hand, if you love spending time outdoors, a pergola might be an excellent investment.
- Your essential needs. Don’t get caught up looking at marble bathrooms if what you need most is a new roof.
- Resale value. You won’t recoup every dollar you spend on a remodel. But if the return on investment is important to you, do some research to see which upgrades make a difference.
Where to find inspiration for your home remodeling ideas
The beauty of the Information Age is the abundance of inspiration. It’s never been easier to find ideas for your home remodel. Here are some good places to look:
- Magazines. Get a cup of coffee and a stack of magazines and enjoy a leisurely flip-through. Dog-ear the page if you see a space you like—or just rip it out and keep a pile of favorites. An added benefit to magazines: It’s usually pretty easy to find exactly where to buy a specific item you like.
- Television. Obviously, HGTV is a great place to start, but don’t discount your favorite shows and movies. American filmmaker Nancy Meyers has a reputation for putting beautiful homes in her films. You might find plenty of inspiration just while watching Netflix.
- Other’s homes. Let your eyes wander at your next dinner party or holiday gathering. We all have that one family member with a crazy house, but you might see something you like. Don’t be afraid to ask about it, either. People love to talk about their spaces, and you might learn something that helps you make a decision.
- Pinterest. It’s not just for millennials. Pinterest is a great way to save images you find on the internet and keep them organized. Lots of people save their inspiration collections too. Peruse their findings and save what you like.
Of course, it’s also easy to get overwhelmed with ideas. Take a break if you’re feeling swamped by too much information. You can always get back to it later.
How to balance inspiration with practical home remodeling truths
Eventually, you’ll need to start sorting through your home remodeling ideas so you can make decisions. This part of the process can be equal parts overwhelming and fun. If you’re feeling a little analysis paralysis, here are a few things to try:
- Ask your friends and family for feedback. Show them what you’re considering and see what they think. They may notice something you missed and can help you eliminate a few options.
- Consider the larger vision. You might love a particular design element or statement art piece. But if it clashes with the rest of your house, consider saying goodbye. Be sure to make decisions that serve a grander purpose.
- Be wary of trends. TikTok has the power to convince everyone they need a tiled table or a wavy mirror right this minute. But you probably want something that will look beautiful for a long time. So if you love a trend, embrace it, but if you suspect you’ll lose interest fast, don’t do it.
You have a few months to enjoy the research and inspiration stage. Embrace this step in the remodeling process. Once it’s time to break ground, you’ll know exactly what you want so that you can create the home of your dreams.
by Taha E.H | Nov 24, 2021 | Projects, Roofing
Long-term home investments – unlike most long-term stock investments – can have an immediate positive impact on quality of living.
But, In both the stock market and the real estate market, you must strike a balance between short-term and long-term investments. There’s no crime in fixing this little thing and painting that small surface, but you don’t want to overlook the big picture. A few significant upgrades make a difference in your comfort, the look of your home, and your future resale value.
Replace your roof.
Here’s a real estate secret: Because the home buying process is so expensive already, most of them are incredibly reluctant to spend money on a new roof right away. An old roof is enough to deter people from buying a house that they might otherwise deem perfect. In other words, a new roof will give you a significant edge when it comes time to sell.
You’ll make some of that money back, too. Depending on what type of shingles you use, you can expect to recoup 50-70% of what you spend when you sell your house.
Planning to stay put for a while? There are still plenty of reasons to upgrade your roof. Old roofs are hot spots for mold and mildew, affecting the air quality and the smell of your home. This problem gets worse if your roof is leaky. Leaks can do some damage to your ceilings, walls, floors, and even furniture if you ignore them for too long. Lastly, a good roof is going to protect you and your family better. Texas got smacked with a truly unprecedented snowstorm in 2021. It was a rare occurrence, but you want your home to be ready for it if it happens again.
Invest in new windows.
The most obvious reason to replace your windows is purely aesthetic. Old, crumbling windows with outdated trims are an eyesore. Swapping them out for new ones will add an instant boost to the look of your home and put a smile on your face. But there are many other good reasons.
New windows can make your home more energy-efficient. Thanks to highly engineered seals and special coatings, these windows don’t leak all the air you’re paying to heat and cool. This means a lower utility bill for you and less precious energy spent on maintaining a steady temperature. Plus your family will be more comfortable.
And, of course, new windows will drive up your home’s resale value. So you can expect to recoup at least 70% of what you spent.
Give your home a fresh look with exterior coatings.
We’ve talked before about the importance of curb appeal when it comes to selling your home, and you can’t ignore the impact of a fresh paint job. But paint isn’t your only option.
Professional exterior coating is more resistant to fade and fatigue, so it looks fresh and bright for much longer. And because it lasts longer than traditional paint, you don’t have to think about a touch-up for a long time. It also has the benefit of military-grade heat deflection technology, so it keeps your house cooler by bouncing the sun’s rays away. Enhancements like this are a great selling point for future buyers who feel strongly about environmentally friendly solutions and a lower utility bill.
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Long-term home investments should strike a balance between upgrades with universal appeal and upgrades that only matter to you. If you want a whirlpool bathtub, by all means, get one, but be realistic about whether or not you’ll see any return on investment (ROI). Always keep in mind the changes that will make a meaningful difference in your home’s value, and think big picture.
by Taha E.H | Sep 14, 2021 | Exterior Paint, Projects, Windows
Whether you’re preparing to sell or just want a refresh, improving the curb appeal of your home is an excellent investment.
The view from the curb sets the tone for your home as a whole. A beautiful, thoughtfully maintained exterior is inviting and makes folks want to see more. It’s also welcoming for guests and potential buyers.
HGTV’s series Curb Appeal provides great ideas for how to make the most of your home’s appearance. Each episode features real homeowners and a crew of experts who go to work, transforming outdated and boring homes with stunning makeovers.
You may not have the time or the budget for such grand designs, but you can make significant improvements with these curb appeal ideas.
Upgrade your front door with paint and hardware.
Your front door is vitally important to your home’s curb appeal. It is the entryway to your home and the exterior feature of your home that guests and buyers will interact with most closely. But the front door is surprisingly easy for homeowners to overlook, especially when it’s not used regularly.
You can have a lot of fun upgrading your door. Bright, whimsical colors are trendy for front doors these days and easily catch the eye of anyone driving by. New hardware adds shine and security, and a fresh doormat is welcoming and fun. Colorful flowers or potted plants are excellent, affordable enhancements.
Update the landscaping (or just mow the lawn).
Lawn care is especially important in the suburbs, where lawns are prominent and signal to your buyer how well you maintain your home. So it’s essential to pay attention to how your yard looks.
You don’t have to overhaul your entire yard to increase your curb appeal. A little strategic landscaping such as new shrubs, fresh flowers, and a water feature can make for an impressive-looking home. But don’t overlook the basic lawn care tips. Mow the lawn, pull the weeds, and neaten up with a trimmer or edger, and you’ve already made a difference.
Make your backyard truly special with a pergola.
Ok, this may not apply to curb appeal directly, but a backyard should have special appeal too. Adding a pergola creates interest, beauty, and function to an otherwise average backyard. It’s like adding another room to your house where you can gather with friends and family or just enjoy a peaceful moment and some fresh air.
Pergolas are especially popular here in Texas, so you can count on a prospective buyer or Real Estate Agent to see a pergola as a big draw or even a dealbreaker. A functional outdoor space is extra valuable in a warm climate like ours, so adding one to your home is an ideal investment for both curb appeal and daily living.
Refresh the exterior with TEX•COTE® COOLWALL®.
It may seem obvious, but your home’s finish is crucial to curb appeal. Shabby, peeling, or faded paint simply won’t do. A fresh coat of paint and siding are fine, but there are better options, such as exterior coating.
TEX•COTE® COOLWALL® lasts longer and resists moisture and fading better than traditional paint, giving you that “freshly painted” appearance for a long time. In addition, TEX•COTE® COOLWALL® uses military-grade technology to reflect heat away from your home and cut down on cooling costs. The result is a more attractive, more energy-efficient home, both of which are appealing to prospective buyers.
Change out your windows.
Just like your front door, your windows connect your home to the outside world. Old, outdated windows don’t make for a particularly inspiring look, and they often do a poor job insulating your home. New windows make your home look crisp, fresh, and inviting.
Windows are a long-term investment, so do your homework when choosing. Consider energy-efficient windows, which can reduce your heating and cooling bill for years to come and make your home more comfortable.
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Having a nice, clean exterior gives potential buyers the confidence they need to put in an offer on your home. With a bit of research and some planning, you can make a smart investment in your home’s curb appeal.
