Big projects like home remodels will always come with both challenges and opportunities. For a better understanding of what to expect during your remodeling project in Southwest Florida, here are the challenges and opportunities we often see during a remodeling project.
Challenge #1 – Moisture
In Florida’s subtropical climate, the weather can have an adverse effect on our homes. During the remodel, the smell of moisture damage may become overwhelming with the homeowners often finding they have mold and didn’t even realize it. To overcome this challenge and prevent further damage, your contractor should find any and all leaks and repair them. Additionally, in Florida, the humidity in homes is controlled by the HVAC system. An evaluation of this system is a good way to determine its efficiency and if it needs to be repaired or replaced to prevent future damage.
Opportunity #1 – Life in the 21st century
Remodeling your home will allow you to reflect current trends. Since most of us use technology nearly 24/7, you can update your home with smart home features. Whether it’s checking to see if the door is locked when you get to work, sending your Roomba to clean while you’re away or turning the temperature on so your pool is warm when you get home, adding these modern features to your home will make your life all the more convenient.
Some trends we’ve also noticed for 2020 include the destination tub, home wellness improvements and climate proofing. These new trends are bound to not only make your home more current, but also more convenient.
Challenge #2 – Managing a temporary relocation
What stresses some individuals most about remodeling is the temporary relocation and an essential space that can no longer be used such as a kitchen. Unfortunately, it’s something that comes with a remodel and cannot be avoided. However, to make remodeling a little less stressful, you can ask your contractor a few key questions to better prepare you for what this process will be like. We recommend asking the following:
- What does a day of work typically look like for you?
- Do you work 9 am – 5 pm, Monday – Friday or are there additional times I should prepare for?
- Who will be working in my home?
- Do you clean up each day at the end of the day?
- Have you completed projects like mine of a similar scope?
- How long do you expect my project to take?
- How long have similar projects taken?
Opportunity #2 – Remodel the home to grow with you
Florida is the #1 spot in the country for individuals to retire. In fact, people over the age of 60 make up about 23% of the population. If you’re getting older but aren’t looking to spend your glory days in a retirement home, you can use a remodel as an opportunity to have your home grow with you. A number of contractors are Certified Aging-in-Place Specialists. This certification program teaches the technical, business management and customer service skills that are essential to older adults. Remodeling your home into a safe, yet stimulating environment that allows you to maintain your independence as you age. It provides the contractor with the skills necessary to help their clients make choices that will help them stay in their homes safely and securely as they get older. Read more here.
Challenge #3 – Homeowners’ Associations
While a majority of homes in Southwest Florida find themselves in gated communities, they also find themselves with homeowner associations. Homeowner associations ensure that our properties are maintained, that shared areas and clubhouses are up to date… and they are often accompanied by a strict set of rules. Homeowner associations can prove to be challenging when it comes to regulations on when workers and trucks can be present, how long the duration of your project can last and so on. Be sure to check with your homeowner association before beginning any major project and work with a contractor that will actively communicate with them during the process.
Opportunity #3 – Make the space all your own
Did you buy your home because it met your basic needs? Was it in your budget? Have you always dreamed of something better, but too many memories have been made to leave behind? Good news. Remodeling your home allows you to make the place all your own while staying put. With a remodel, you can finally get rid of the tub in the master bathroom that you despise. You can add the kitchen island you’ve always dreamed of and open up the space in your living room. You’re able to make the home all your own while keeping all the memories you’ve made there over the years.
Challenge #4 – Hiring the right contractor
One of the biggest challenges to remodeling your home is choosing the right contractor. You put a lot of trust into this individual and their company to make your dream a reality. Be sure to ask a lot of questions and fully vet your potential contractors before hiring them. If you’re not sure what questions to ask, check out our blog on the topic here.
Opportunity #4 – Save money
Remodeling your home is often less expensive than buying new. If you take a look at the current market, it’s extremely rare, if not impossible, to find a home with all the modern finishes you desire. The average cost of homes on the market will vary based on your location, but according to Zillow.com, the median home price in Collier County, Florida is $335,900. In comparison, the average upgrade to finishes within your home such as paint, trim, flooring and cabinetry may range from $40,000-$60,000. Not to mention, after remodeling you won’t have a new, more expensive mortgage to pay off, closing costs, realtor expenses and more. It’s a cost-effective win-win.
If you’re in the Southwest Florida area and are eager to take on the challenges and opportunities of a remodeling project, contact Varian Construction at (239) 514-0103. Varian Construction is a 30-year-old, owner-operated company that takes pride in their projects all while alleviating the stress on the homeowner. The company’s owner, Bill Varian, is also a Certified Aging-in-Place Specialist. Varian Construction promises to go above and beyond the call of duty for your remodeling project.