10 Tips for Planning Your Home Renovations on a Limited Budget in NYC.

The battle in NYC is supply and demand and the main factors in how much we pay; And when is the best time to start especially when its budget renovation? 

Renovating a home can be an all-consuming process, meaning you likely won’t have time to plan.

Decide your priorities, you’ll need to determine what it is you really need versus what you simply want and it’s out of your budget.  Cosmetic renovations, especially when they’re on a tight budget you will need to make smart, cost-effective design choices. Advance planning and clear vision for your renovation budget project are important. 

Be realistic on time frame it will take 6-12 months. 

You need to get familiar with remodeling laws for building or your house NYC condos condops and co-ops.

Get familiar with your house rules and bylaws and building permits when renovating apartment Co-0p or condo. You will also need a Condo Association, or Co-Op Board Approval. Permit laws NYC

If you’re looking to make the best and most valuable home improvements specific upgrades consider the more value improvement to increase the value of your home or apartment. The kitchen and bathroom are major improvements and most valuable often buyers look first. 

Remember: most renovations end up costing more than originally thought, so be sure to have a money cushion budget set aside in case of unforeseen emergencies.

For tips: Here is some home renovations ideas. how to avoid renovation nightmare check below 

Common tactics to avoid a renovation nightmare!

 1. If you are planning to renovate your apartment take the time to make decisions first set yourself to clear ideas materials sit will prevent stress later. And decisions in the middle of a renovation are stressful.  Take your time making all the decisions in advance!

2.  Buying the materials yourself is cheaper and easier ensures your best materials last a long time. 

3.  Shop around ask for a recommendation from close friends honest contractor will help you get trade discounts and share them with you his invoices if you agreed in advance. 

4. Don’t be intimidated by your contractor if your project needs to be done all at once. It will save you money if you do it at once rather than drag it out.

5. What you are not sure to leave for later!

Best to complete smaller projects in renovation first it will give you the freedom to choose materials and make better choices!

6. Look for the contractor who understands your project and needs.

 recommendation from your friends that used them in the past and you saw the workmanship is best!

7. Only ask for bids based full project in detail, only when you have all the information you need for the contractor if you do not! then wait until you at all the details!

8. You know your home better than your contractor 

Get informed to details about your apartment’s electricity power plumbing best.

Do not think your contactor knows what’s best for you.

You can get lots of information from your super. These people know about your home more than you do. 

9. Once you choose the right contractors for your needs for renovation, sign a Construction contract agreement. Have your lawyer and accountant review the agreement /contract. 

Withholding percentage of the job payments for unfinished details is something to consider.

10. Stay in your apartment/home during your renovation if you can, to save money!

And you will be able to inspect and supervise the job daily!

If, your contactor willing to clean up after daily work you may consider to pay him extra and add this into your contract. 

A compromise might be required when renovating on Budget 

You need to be willing to compromise sometime on materials and finishes;

And can look into purchasing lower-cost materials gently-used or refurbished items or reclaimed materials yard sales it could save you up to 50% percent of the cost of buying new. It’s also fun to be a deal shopper it makes a great conversation topic.

Once you invite friend’s relatives you can proudly rave about your renovation accomplishments knowledge you acquired!

Good luck with your budget renovation!

Don’t Dream your life, live your dreams.

Lets, Pazo Realty help your dream home became your reality.

Zahavit Paz
Residential and Commercial Real Estate Broker
646.330.0180
info@pazorealty.com

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