I can’t believe that the boys are back to school already! The year seems to have flown by; however, there’s still plenty of time left before we have to start thinking about (dare we say it) Christmas. The last few months of every year can stretch the budget of any family to its limits. Therefore, now is probably not the time that you’ll be thinking about spending money on decorating, home-improvements, and renovation projects. Or so you’d think. I was viewing a new property yesterday but more about that another time.
Those brave enough to renovate or change things up in their home need to start planning what needs to be done now so that can work out a strict budget for next year and the lead-up to getting things done. It’s always worth thinking about what you’ll likely to be moaning about in your home when you get to spring and summer, yet have no spare cash to do anything about. Hands up who else does this?
The sooner you have your priorities down on a list, the quicker you can begin to put money aside and start to plan to get your home into great shape. With home improvements in the back of your mind throughout the festive season (sorry to bring that up again) and into next year; you’ll be able to save cash where you wouldn’t have thought to previously, and you’ll have an eye out for bargains and great deals. The following are some ideas, tips, and inspiration for those who want to organise their renovation projects now for a boost to their family home in the future.
List Those Who Can Help
Don’t be fooled into thinking that just because a company is the cheapest, that it will be right for you and your family. Shoddy work can lead to further expenses and is unlikely to stand the test of time, so make sure you do your research and go with a reputable business who are experts in what they do. Here in Thirsk, for example, we have some fabulous tradespeople and all of them come with a long list of personal recommendations.
Great builders, decorators, and home-renovation experts can sometimes have long waiting lists though, so it’s always worth contacting them as soon as possible to discuss when they can complete something and work out a payment plan for yourself. Whether you need to find a conservatory that’s right for your family, need a company like www.subterraneanspaces.co.uk to design and renovate your basement, or just want the house painted to freshen it up; work out your timings, money, and who you’ll invest with for a seamless and stress-free upgrade.
Preparation Is Key
If you can, get the small jobs out of the way before the experts arrive. That way they don’t need to invoice you for something you could have done yourself.
You can make plans now to give the house a major clear out pre, and post-Christmas is a great opportunity to get rid of items that you no longer utilise or need. If you’re decorating; plan to buy paint and other DIY items in the January sales as you’ll appreciate your initiative when spring and summer arrive, along with the builders or decorators. Remember that no job or task is too small, especially when you’re taking a weight off your mind by ticking it off the list, and saving yourself from a huge lump sum when it’s time to get started on your project.
Roy and I are in limbo land at the moment. Not quite happy where we are but not quite sure whether we want to move, or rather can’t find a property we can see the potential in, we may well be sitting down and planning out some changes for this house.