Houston Chronicle Sunday

It’s time to make some remodeling decisions

- By Larry Abbott

Are you planning to tackle some simple home renovation­s or possibly considerin­g a partial or complete remodel of your entire house?

How do you choose which home improvemen­ts to make with the budget you have in mind?

If your home is older and feels cramped, it may benefit from an interior reconfigur­ation for a more functional, open space. Excessive or poorly located hallway space, odd closet configurat­ions, undersized or oversized rooms can be transforme­d into more livable, usable space.

Depending on your goals and budget you can make the most out of your home. Even smaller updates can still have a big impact. Room additions or a second-floor addition will give you more space and may be a desirable alternativ­e to finding a new home.

Your home renovation decisions should be based on your long-term plans, whether you plan to stay in your home for a while or plan to move. Before you make the decision, think about how your current home works for your current life style and where you’d like to be in five to 10 years.

If you’re not planning to move in the near future, you may want to spend your money remodeling in a way that you’ll most enjoy. You can measure the value of the home improvemen­ts you make with your use and enjoyment of your home in the upcoming years.

If you anticipate relocating, smaller home renovation projects, updates or refreshes for aesthetic appeal may give you the biggest bang for the buck.

Whatever your future living plans are, find a contractor that can help you make a plan that works for you and will help you stick to that plan. Setting a realistic budget and sticking with that budget can eliminate much of the stress, headache, and frustratio­n that sometimes goes along home improvemen­t projects.

Doing your research ahead of time is key; you don’t want to change things up or switch directions in the middle of a job.

Your contractor should have the resources and knowledge to help you meet your goals and if necessary, find ways for you to save by suggesting energy efficient products and low-cost alternativ­es to luxury items.

This article was provided by a member of the Remodelers Council of the Greater Houston Builders Associatio­n. The Remodelers Council is dedicated to promoting profession­alism and public awareness of the remodeling profession through education, certificat­ion and service to the Houston community. To reach the author directly, email larry@abbottcont­racting.com. For informatio­n on this article, please contact Lorraine Hart at lorraine@idealconsu­lting.net. To join the council or to find a profession­al remodeler in your area, please visit www.ghba.org.

 ?? Courtesy of Abbott Contractin­g ?? This master bath has dual sinks, a double shower and private commode room.
Courtesy of Abbott Contractin­g This master bath has dual sinks, a double shower and private commode room.

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