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How to Keep Home Improvement Costs Low

Contributor
By Valencia Higuera
eHow Contributing Writer
(1 Ratings)
Keep Home Improvement Costs Low
Keep Home Improvement Costs Low

Home renovations are expensive, and many homeowners incur a lot of debt by the project's completion. There is nothing wrong with improving your living space or modernizing the home. However, it is best to keep costs low. Here are a few practical ways to reduce the costs of a home renovation.

From Quick Guide: Kitchen Renovation DIY
Difficulty: Moderate
Instructions
  1. Step 1

    Limit renovations. Some homeowners make plans to renovate their entire home. Unfortunately, budget limits can interfere with the project. Rather than finance an entire renovation and spend the next five or 10 years paying off the debt, scale down the remodel. Do you really need a complete bath makeover? Often times, a fresh coat of paint and new decor make a huge difference.

  2. Step 2

    Put some projects on hold. Realistically determine what you can afford to pay. Your mind may say "renovate all three bathrooms," but your pocket sings a different tune. Put a few projects on hold, and wait until your finances improve.

  3. Step 3

    Do-it-yourself. The majority of homeowners hire a professional to complete their remodel and renovation projects. However, some tasks are simple enough for an amateur. For example, why pay someone thousands of dollars to paint your home' s interior? DIY paint jobs are time consuming and tedious. Yet, you'll save a lot of money.

  4. Step 4

    Get high return on investment. Remodel or renovations that increase your home' s value are smart. This way, you'll be able to recoup the renovation costs once the home sells. Remodel projects that can increase a home' s worth include kitchen and bath remodels, home expansions and outdoor projects.

  5. Step 5

    Use imitation materials. Granite countertops, stainless steel appliances and hardword floors add a nice modern touch. Yet, these materials are very costly. Choose quality imitation supplies and save a few hundred dollars.

  6. Step 6

    Compare finance options. Homeowners who choose to finance a home improvement project can use credit cards, home equity loan or contractor's finance package. It is important to compare different loans. This way, you will not overpay for financing.

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