So You Bought a Fixer-Upper? Here’s What You Need to Do

So, you bought a fixer-upper? Congratulations! You’re in for a lot of fun (and some hard work). A fixer-upper can be a great way to get a home that’s exactly what you want, for less money. But it’s important to know what you’re getting into. In this blog post, we will give you a step-by-step guide on how to make your fixer-upper into your dream home.

Assess the Damage

The first step is to take a good, hard look at your new home. What needs to be fixed? Make a list of all the repairs and renovations that need to be done. Once you have your list, prioritize it according to what needs to be done first. Some things may be cosmetic and can wait, while others may be more structural and need to be dealt with right away. Go as deep as possible and even get a CCTV drain survey, if needed, to get an idea of the state of your home’s plumbing.

Make a Budget

Now that you know what needs to be done, it’s time to make a budget. How much can you afford to spend on repairs and renovations? It’s important to be realistic here – remember, you don’t want to overspend and end up in debt. Once you have a budget, start shopping around for materials and get quotes from contractors. This will give you a good idea of how much your project is going to cost.

Get the Right Tools

You’re going to need some tools to get the job done right. If you don’t have any, borrow some from a friend or invest in a few key pieces. A good drill is essential, as is a screwdriver set. You’ll also need a hammer, a saw, and some other basics. If you’re not sure what you need, ask someone at your local hardware store – they’ll be able to help you out.

Get Some Help

Unless you’re a professional contractor, chances are you’re going to need some help with your repairs and renovations. Talk to friends, family, and neighbours who have experience with home improvement projects. They can give you advice on where to start, what to do, and how to avoid making common mistakes.

Take Your Time

One of the most important things to remember when fixing up a fixer-upper is to take your time. Rushing through the process will only lead to mistakes and poor workmanship. So, take your time and do a good job – your home will thank you for it in the end.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When you’re renovating your home, it’s important to avoid making some common mistakes. One of the biggest mistakes people make is not getting enough help. As we mentioned before, unless you’re a professional contractor, you’re going to need some assistance. Trying to do everything yourself will only lead to frustration and poor results.

Not Being Realistic

Another common mistake is not budgeting properly. Remember to be realistic when creating your budget – otherwise, you could end up in debt. And finally, don’t forget to take your time. Rushing through the process will only result in mistakes and subpar workmanship.

Trends to Avoid

When you’re fixing up your home, it’s important to avoid following interior style trends. Trends come and go, but your home is a long-term investment. So, stick with classic, timeless styles that will stand the test of time.

Tips to Up the Value of Your Home while You Fix It Up

If you’re planning on selling your home in the future, there are a few things you can do to increase its value. One thing you can do is update the kitchen. A new kitchen will not only make your home more attractive to buyers, but it will also add real value to your property.

The good news is that you aren’t lacking options for upgrading this important space. For instance, you can replace faulty electrical sockets and light fixtures, outdated windows and doors, and so on. A backsplash can create a stunning focal point in your kitchen, and you don’t have to break the bank. Alternatively, you can invest in flat pack kitchens; these DIY- friendly upgrades can make cooking more convenient while increasing your property value.

Add an Extra Bathroom

Another thing you can do is add an extra bathroom. This is especially useful if your home only has one bathroom – adding another can really increase its value. Also when adding an extra bathroom, make sure to choose materials and fixtures that are high-quality and stylish.

Create More Living Space

Creating more living space is another great way to increase the value of your home. If you have an unfinished basement, for example, finishing it can add a significant amount of value to your property. Just be sure to finish it in a way that adds function and appeal – adding an extra bedroom or bathroom will really increase its value.

Get a Home Energy Audit

A home energy audit is another great way to add value to your home. Not only will it make your home more energy-efficient, but it will also show potential buyers that you’re serious about saving money on utility bills. Getting a home energy audit is a great way to make your home more attractive to buyers and increase its value.

Work on Your Curb Appeal

Don’t forget to work on your home’s curb appeal. This is the first thing potential buyers will see, so it’s important to make a good impression. painting the front door, planting some flowers, and power washing the exterior of your home can really increase its curb appeal.

Extra Features to Add Value

There are a few extra features you can add to your home to really increase its value. One thing you can do is install hardwood floors. Hardwood floors are not only beautiful, but they’re also durable and easy to maintain. Another great feature to add is a security system. This will not only make your home more valuable, but it will also give potential buyers peace of mind knowing that their home is safe and secure.

So there you have it – a few tips on how to fix up a fixer-upper. Remember to take your time, be realistic, and avoid making common mistakes. And if you’re planning on selling your home in the future, be sure to do things that will increase its value. With a little hard work and patience, you can turn your fixer-upper into a real gem.

By claire.