In addition to regular maintenance, you can also renovate the property and build fun new additions. Regardless of whether you own a lake home or a cabin in the woods, we have some tips for how you can prepare for renovations and make them a success.
First Steps
Before you start spending money on supplies and contractors, you need to take a moment and consider some first steps, starting with deciding what you plan to do. Your renovations could be as simple as repainting a few rooms or updating the fixtures in your bathroom.
If you decide to update, make sure that you plan ahead and choose a time when you will be able to follow through with the project.
You might also decide to add a new space to your vacation home. Many people choose to update their garage and transform it from a storage space to an extra room for guests.
Other people update their summer property by adding a new outdoor area complete with a pool, hot tub, or if you are on a budget, a simple seating area where you can entertain your friends.
Once you have your potential project picked out, you will want to put some time into preparing a budget for your renovations. When you create your budget, it is important to set limits. Write out how much money should go to each aspect of the project.
Once you have your funds set in stone, reach out to a few contractors, explain your ideas, and ask for a price quote. Choose the best option that works for you and get the agreed price in writing.
Renovations for Waterfront Properties
Keep in mind that different properties will require unique specifications based on their location. For instance, there are many pros to owning a waterfront property on the beach or a lake.
Among them are the beautiful views, the ability to swim and get exercise near the water, and the fact that what you have is a great long-term investment.
However, you will need to be careful when it comes to renovations because you may need to buy fixtures that can withstand salt and water damage. If you are updating the lights on your house or the dock, then confirm with a professional that they fit the bill. Otherwise, you may end up replacing them a few years later.
Since you will likely be spending a lot of time outside during the summer, think about other renovations and additions you can make to the home. Some popular projects include adding a fire pit, horseshoe pits, or even an outdoor bbq or kitchen where you can cook dinners and make tasty treats at night.
When you are indoors, you can still get the feeling of being outside by adding more natural light to the space. Add windows, rearrange the furniture, or buy new pieces and put them where the sunlight will shine in, and you can enjoy those bright rays all day long.
Before you start any home remodeling – such as a kitchen or bathroom remodeling, adding an addition, building a new section onto the home, and other major renovation project, run some financial numbers to determine whether the renovation is a smart investment.
The numbers include the estimated costs, home value assessment, financing costs, and other related calculations.
Review these cost-related issues to remodeling vs. buying a new home.
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The 2nd step for planning your home remodeling is deciding what you would like to do.
Will it be a –
- remodeling your kitchen or bathroom,
- converting the attic or basement,
- adding an addition or extension to the home,
- changing out your deck or patio into an all-season room,
- upgrading the home with new windows, doors and flooring,
- redesigning your landscape with new features,
- or something else.
Start collecting ideas by referencing our collection of remodeling analysis: view directory
Step 3 is sketching your ideas on paper (or digitally) and developing the spec plan.
The spec plan determines what type of home remodeling materials, items, and design considerations that will be needed. It will also contain the product specifications for each renovation element.
You will use the spec plan and architectural design to bid the project out to a contractor.
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Step 4 is finding and negotiating the contract with a remodeling contractor.
Give your home remodeling ideas and specs to a contractor for review and bid analysis. Use the local network (aligned with HomeAdvisor) to find the right contractor for your project.
Review guides for contractor selection and negotiation.
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Step 5 is arranging financing once you selected the contractor and finalized the contract for your project.
Using the equity value in your home is one of the best financing option for home remodeling. Start with a home equity line of credit or use the bank equity program.
Other options may include cash-out refinancing, personal savings, and/or financing from home improvement contractors.
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Step 6 is where the project begins.
It starts with setting up the work area, removing everything that needs to be replaced, installing electrical and network connections, putting in the final touches, etc.
It also means working with the contractor, managing the project, and getting the home remodeling project inspected before releasing any funds.
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Renovations for Cabins and Other Wooded Properties
If you own a log cabin or another type of wooden home, then you can take advantage of the fact that they are more energy efficient and versatile. You can also start many great renovation projects.
You can modernize a rustic cabin by adding metal accents, ceramic tile, and granite countertops. This is also a great time to update the plumbing.
Many cabin owners choose to pair their cabin with a wood deck that they can refinish to meet their entertainment needs. The project of refinishing a deck is relatively straightforward.
other related articles of interest:
Shutter Materials That Can Help Cool Down Your Summer Home
Top 5 Energy Saving Tips and Strategies for Your Home This Summer
You clean it thoroughly, sand down the rough points, and apply a sealer of your choice. Then, add seating and whatever else fits your fancy.
Regardless of where you live, summers can get hot, so you will want your air conditioning to be in good working order. Make it a point to have your HVAC systems regularly maintained, even when you are not at the house.
If your AC ever breaks down, then make that the first priority of your renovation. Pair it with a smart thermostat so you can monitor your energy usage and save money in the process.
There are many great updates that you can make to your awesome summer home. Consider these tips and stick to your budget, and you can make the warm months that much sweeter.
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Image credit: guide to renovating a summer home by unsplash.com
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