9 Things You Should Remember While Planning and Making Home Remodels in London

Living in London for the first time can be quite exciting. Once the move is over, the next thing everyone wants to do is a home remodels. However, life in London is quite stressful. This is why you want to make sure that you have a safe haven where you can completely relax and let loose. There’s no need to worry though. Turning your apartment into your own personal space can be a fun activity instead of a chore.

First, plan out how you want to change things up. Next, choose what color you want to paint your walls. Then, decide which fixtures and furniture to purchase. However, what’s most important, you get to start anew. But, even though home remodels are fun and exciting, they often get frustrating. So, to keep this whole process in “smooth sailing” mode, here are a few tips to keep in mind for home remodels.

Home Remodels in London • 9 Things You Must Know

① Set A Budget and Stick To It

It is easy to go overboard and spend more money than you should when you don’t begin this journey by setting a maximum budget. However, what’s harder than establishing one is sticking to one. That is why you will need to make sure to always think twice before making a decision or a purchase. Do you really need expensive bathroom tiles, or can you make do with something more reasonably priced? Is it really necessary to purchase that new dishwasher?

Additionally, whatever your budget is, be sure to plan out all your purchases beforehand so that you won’t have any reason to increase or add to your budget later on. It is also best to set aside a contingency amount that you may only use when the need for it arises.

② Keep It Realistic

One thing that’s as easy as going over budget is planning for something that is not at all feasible. Whether you’re taking the DIY approach or hiring a contractor, you will have to work within the limits of your budget, resources, and existing home. If you are incredibly set on something that isn’t necessarily feasible at the moment, then consider staggering your project or finding a close alternative you wouldn’t mind seeing in place of what you actually want.

③ Do Some Research

To have a better grip on what to expect, be sure to do some research about the process of remodeling itself. Talk to your friends and neighbors who have done renovations to their homes. Find out what challenges and issues you may possibly face. If you already have specific designs or looks in mind, it is also best to do some research on how you can achieve them.

Even if you’ve decided to go full DIY on your home renovations, it is still recommended to do research on the local carpenters and plumbers in London. Some home remodeling tasks may seem easy and doable by yourself but later on, it apparently is a herculean task that requires the expertise of professionals.

④ Have A Clear Vision In Mind

Before you start the project itself, it is important that you have a clear picture of what you want. Renovating your home will require you to spend a lot of time and money, so you will have to have a complete plan before you even start your remodel, from design right down to contacting your local town skip hire company to find the right contractors. Having as many things picked out and decided beforehand will allow you to be better-prepared and better-informed once you start. It is also advisable to browse through home improvement magazines or scour online chat rooms and Pinterest boards for some inspiration.

For instance, curtains and blinds can make or break the aesthetics of a room. Make sure that the theme and design you choose would complement the room’s existing furniture and designs.

⑤ Take The Time To Make The Necessary Repairs

Since you’re already making cosmetic repairs to your home, you might as well take the opportunity to fix up damaged areas or fixtures in your house. Damages that are most commonly ignored or undetected include water damage to wood, broken knobs and handles, water pipe rusting, blocked drainages, shower leaks, faulty wiring, and cracked tiles.

⑥ Draw Up A Clear Timeline

Having a clear timeline is important. A Comprehensive Project Plan will make everything easier. Just like having a budget, having a clear timeline allows you to have better-tempered expectations. At the very least, knowing when to expect (or finish) what will keep you sane and calm throughout the process. Otherwise, the whole thing will be nothing but a nightmare both for you, and your contractor if you have one.

⑦ Communication is Key

Whether you’re doing this with friends, family, or a professional crew, it is vital that you are able to communicate clearly and openly. Learn how to both say “no” and accept constructive criticism. Expressing what you want, or don’t want, will make it less difficult for all parties involved. Remodeling, after all, is a team effort.

⑧ Be Ready To Make Small Sacrifices

The truth is, vamping up your home will, at one point or another, force you to make some sacrifices. It could be for something as small as being unable to sleep in on a Saturday morning due to the noise around you, to having five people share one bathroom because of ongoing shower repairs in the other. The point is, while your home is undergoing all this change, you will be inconvenienced and uncomfortable, and that’s something you really won’t be able to get out of. There may even be a few days where you have to spend the night outside of your house.

⑨ Secure The Necessary Permits

While many think that securing permits is an unnecessary headache, obtaining all the necessary permits is extremely important. Building permits are needed in order to make sure that your renovations meet all the fire and safety requirements in your area. If, and when, inspectors show up at your place and find that you have not secured a permit, or worse, violated a safety code, it could mean hefty fines for you and your contractor. So, be sure to ensure that all your permits are filed and secured!

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