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Redesign in stages to save money
What do you do when the home improvement projects you want to undertake are so much more expensive than you thought they were going to be? I faced this situation recently with a client. She had a healthy budget, but when we began to see the price quotes for all of the things she wanted done, it became clear very quickly that she was not going to be able to afford to do everything, at least not right away.
Here are some suggestions:
- Break the total project into chunks. It will take longer to complete everything, but in the end you will get what you want. For example, let’s say that you want to have all new flooring, new paint colors, new kitchen counters, new lighting, and new furniture. By taking on one piece at a time, you will buy yourself time to replenish your budget.
- Look at alternative materials. For example, choosing laminate counters over more expensive materials such as granite and quartz will save a lot of money. Laminate counters come in a wide variety of colors and styles and are quite durable. Granite is wonderful, but in a more modest home, laminate can be a great alternative. As another example, carpet is much less expensive overall than installing new hardwood, and can really give a luxurious look. If you really want to splurge on the hardwood, use it in just one area, such as the family room, and install carpet in the living room.
- Use expensive materials as accents only — on a backsplash or in a shower, for example, combine pricey glass tiles with less expensive porcelain tile.
- Do some of the work yourself. Learn how to replace light fixtures and do some of your own painting, for example. However, don’t skimp on installations that really do take a professional. Safety is paramount, and getting a great result is important too. I am reminded of a friend who did her own tile work in a bathroom. For her first attempt, it wasn’t bad, but there were some visible mistakes that a professional would not have made. She now wishes she would have waited until she had the money to hire a professional tile installer. Do not take on a project that is really too big for you. Consider your time, skill level and patience. And practice first, if at all possible.
- Be a careful furniture shopper — shop sales and consider purchasing floor models. Also, take a look at used furniture on Craig’s List or even in thrift shops. Some furniture can be painted, some can be reupholstered, and some can be purchased in almost new condition. A recent client, for example, purchased a gorgeous bedroom set on Craig’s List for an unbelievable price. I have to admit that I not a thrift store or garage sale shopper, but I am always amazed by the beautiful items people purchase this way.
Even with a tight budget, you can the home you want.
This article first appeared in Alameda Newspaper
Group papers on Feb. 16, 2008.
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All articles copyright 2003-2008 Anna
Jacoby.
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