Common Expectations During Renovations

If you are interested in performing renovation in your home, then know that there is a lot that goes into the project. Even if you are only renovating one room, you will need to think about lighting, flooring, furnishings, and, most importantly, the cost of the project. Here at Duffy Realty of Atlanta, we love to see people enjoy their dream homes, so we have created this guide of tips and advice for tackling your next big renovation and everything that goes into it. Here are some tips and tools plus Common Expectations During Renovations!

Keep All of Your Paperwork Together With a PDF Tool

Many people don’t realize just how much paperwork is involved in a renovation. You may have blueprints, inspection notices, letters, receipts, and many other documents, and you might need to access them at a moment’s notice. While you can keep everything in one drawer, you can save time and space by uploading all of your files to the computer and then merging them all into a single PDF. 

Search online for a PDF merging tool that will make quick work of this process. All you need to do is add each document to the file. Then, when everything is ready, you can move the pages of the PDF around, so it is all in the right order. Once everything is perfect, you can keep that file on a mobile drive that you can attach to your keychain so you always have it and can access the files.

Hiring an Interior Decorator vs. Interior Designer

Once you have decided how you want your renovation to look, you need to hire the right professionals for the job. When it comes to this topic, many people get confused with the difference between an interior decorator and interior designer. While they have many skills in common, such as the ability to conceptualize a space and communicate with vendors, interior design is more about understanding the science of a space and how to make it functional, whereas an interior decorator is more focused on adding furnishings or other aspects that achieve a certain aesthetic. 

You may need both professionals for your project, a designer will typically come first, and the decorator will give you the finishing touches necessary to perfect the space. 

Considerations for Lighting If You Add a New Office

Since so many people work from home these days, many are deciding to renovate their homes so that they can add a new office. In addition to being a space for a desk, a home office should be planned accordingly so that you can be as productive as possible. One of the best resources that can help you to be more productive is also free, and that is natural light. It has been proven that natural light helps us to be more relaxed and centered, so make it a point to add windows to the space so you can take advantage of that fact. 

If it isn’t possible to add more windows then you should at least plan to have some overhead lighting fixtures installed in the space. Ideally, you should look for fixtures that use LED bulbs because LEDs offer a cleaner and more vibrant light. Plus, they last longer and cost less to replace.  Just another tip to help with Common Expectations During Renovations.

Working With Flooring During a Renovation

While many people don’t consider their flooring during a home renovation, it is important to know how to protect your existing floors and choose new flooring. When it comes to protection, you can lay down cardboard or heavy construction paper over the floor, so it doesn’t get dented or destroyed. Use painters tape to keep the cardboard down, so it doesn’t shift during the project.

When it comes to choosing new flooring, it really depends on your taste. If you are short on time and funds, then you may consider vinyl because it can be laid down directly over your existing floor. If you prefer to walk around barefoot or you want a softer feel, then you can never go wrong with carpet. Many experts also recommend hardwood because it is easy to install and it looks great too.

As you can see, there is a lot to know when it comes to remodeling and what to consider about Common Expectations During Renovations. Just remember to keep your documents in order, understand the difference between an interior decorator and an interior designer, and let in plenty of natural light, especially during those home office remodels, and you will be in good shape. If you would like to learn more about the services here at Duffy Realty of Atlanta, then please contact us at 678-318-3613.

Written by Patrick Young: educator and activist for all things real estate