analysis: Getting Ready for Summer: Improving the Curb Appeal

Before you start working on the home exterior, run some financial numbers to determine whether your exterior home project 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 exterior remodeling vs. buying a new home.

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	link to notes: analyze the numbers
	estimate the cost of your project
	get your home value

The 2nd step for planning a summer exterior home renovation is deciding what you would like to do.

Will it be –

• redesigning the home entry,
• replacing the roof and/or siding,
• adding exterior home trim,
• installing new windows,
• fixing up the exterior structures,
• landscaping the front area,
• or something else.

Step 3 is sketching your ideas on paper (or digitally) and developing the spec plan.

The spec plan determines what type of exterior home materials and design considerations that will be needed. It will also contain the product specifications for each exterior home element.

You will use the spec plan and architectural design to bid the project out to a contractor.

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	link to notes: developing spec plan
	sketch remodeling plan
	design considerations

Step 4 is finding and negotiating the contract with an exterior home contractor.

Give your 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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	search exterior home contractors
	selecting your contractor checklist

	link to notes: contractor negotiations
	contractor evaluation form

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 the exterior home. 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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	link to notes: financing options
	getting qualified for financing
	negotiate rates

Step 6 is where the project begins.

It starts with setting up the work area, removing everything that needs to be replaced, installing new materials if needed, putting in the final touches, etc.

It also means working with the contractor, managing the project, and getting the exterior home project inspected before releasing any funds.

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	working with the contractor
	managing the home remodeling project

	about a home project inspections
	find home inspector