Is there anything better than kicking off the summer in a newly remodeled house? It’s a great feeling, but hurry, the clock is ticking. Spring is a time of renewal and new beginnings. Whether you own a home that needs a little update or perhaps a complete overhaul, now is the time to get started.
Planning ahead is thekey to success, so it’s important to organize your needs, wants, and wishes before you start tearing down walls or pulling up the carpet.
While you probably already know what big changes you want to make, there are some things that people commonly miss. Here are some basic elements that are often overlooked, but can make a big difference in the final project:
- Start with Storage.
Consider the storage solutions that you want to include in your remodel. While having an expansive closet might seem unnecessary, especially if you primarily use your home as a vacation escape, ensuring that you have proper storage for all your gear, both indoor and outdoor, is essential. Those stand-up paddleboards, waterskis, and kayaks can take up a lot of room!
- Keep Things Connected Inside.
Another item to pay attention to is your WiFi setup, as well as electrical outlets. Are there enough of them? Are they situated in convenient spots? Don’t forget to consider the ones in your kitchen, too. You’ll need somewhere to plug in a tablet or smart speaker devices like a HomePod or an Alexa.
- Power Everything Up Outside.
Ensuring that you have outlets outside is particularly important if you have an outdoor entertaining space like a patio, deck, or pool. These can be useful for grills and outdoor lighting options, holiday lights, or home security systems. Devices like Ring cameras or doorbells should also be considered, and you may want to ensure that your WiFi system covers the entire property.
- Know that the Kitchen is Key.
While the trend of opening up kitchens to make them more of a gathering place is definitely sticking around (after all, everyone always seems to end up in the kitchen at any party or event), making sure that your kitchen is still functional is just as essential as expanding your space and bringing the light in.
- Focus on the Great Outdoors.
If you are performing a more extensive remodel or even changing up the landscaping, keep the views in mind. If you have a scenic lake view or other spectacular vistas in your sightlines, you definitely don’t want to block them!
- Create a Home for all Four Seasons.
If you use your home year-round, your remodeling project should take each season into account. Winterization might be a priority, both in terms of ensuring that your house is designed to keep you warm in freezing temperatures, and so that you can still enjoy the property. Think about creating an all-weather porch or sunroom that allows you to enjoy the outdoors and stay toasty warm, or maybe adding a working fireplace.
- Design With Your Guests in Mind.
For many of us, part of the joy of having a house is hosting our nearest and dearest. If you are planning on having visitors during any season, you’ll want to ensure that your home has plenty of accommodations. Is there a way to add a bunk room or extra sleeping spaces that can be closed or separated from the rest of the house? Where might a pull-out couch or sleeper sofa fit?
Keep these important elements on your checklist when you plan your remodel, and of course, don’t forget to ask your contractor about all the options. You might be surprised at your property’s potential! Who knows, you could be just a few months away from turning your house into your ultimate dream home.
