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Fixer Upper

Fixing up an old house, or renovating one isn’t quite as easy as watching the staged production on HGTV.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Here are some golden rules for fixing up a house:

Know your budget

Unforseen costs are inevitable. A fixer upper house is bound to have underlying problems that you can’t see or predict, even more some professionals.

Invest the time

If you have ever remodeled or flipped homes before, you know that time is the biggest investment. Be prepared for the renovation to take a turn and cost you more time that you initially predicted. Whether it’s the plumbing or electrical re-wiring or some demolition that incurs more rebuilding than you intended

Preserve the character of the house while adding a fresh flair

Make a clear choice if you want to Renovate or Remodel the house. In renovating, you are restoring it back to the house’s original condition, in which case, pay close attention to brick and wood. Most likely there is sub-flooring, fireplaces, windows worth salvaging, or finding replacements at a local salvage yard or antique warehouse.

Make a thorough check on the heating and air as well as plumbing.

Don’t hesitate to call the professionals.

Test for Lead Paint

Homes built before 1978 could have lead in the paint and could be a risk to children. Hire a contractor for a test.

 

 

New Home & Remodeling Marketplace

Curious about the housing industry in Lexington? Of course you are – you’re on the Rector Hayden Blog for Big Blue’s Sake!!  

Attend the New Home & Remodeling Marketplace to meet local building professionals who can help introduce you to the Lexington Lifestyle! 

Event is in the North Exhibit Hall and Concourse of the Alltech Arena.  Free parking. 

Sponsored by BIACentralKY (formerly HomeBuilders Association of Lexington)

Times:  

Friday 4 PM – 8 PM

Saturday 9 AM – 4 PM

Sunday 10 AM – 4 PM

Categories
Home Insights Home Selling Tips Uncategorized

Remodel Project? Focus on the Kitchen

Thinking of Selling? Don’t Overlook an Outdated Kitchen, Buyers Won’t

Remodeling Your Kitchen
If you are planning on listing your home for sale, make sure that you don’t overlook the condition of your kitchen. A recent article on realtor.com listed “7 Signs Your Kitchen Is Way Overdue for a Renovation,” in which they warned:

“Dated kitchens—just like bathrooms—are a major barrier for resale. Buyers want modern amenities and styling, and most aren’t interested in renovating post-purchase.”

 
Kitchen remodels can be pricey, with many complete remodels costing $20,000 or more. But not every kitchen needs a full remodel. There are many smaller projects that will help buyers see themselves trying their favorite Pinterest recipe in your home!

Here are a couple of project ideas that, if you’re handy or know someone who is, could end up boosting your home’s value without breaking the bank:

  • Are the cabinets in good shape but need an update? A new coat of paint and some updated hardware will instantly freshen up the space and drastically change the feel of the room all for under $300.
  • A new backsplash to match the freshly painted cabinets updates the space and adds some style while staying under $200, depending on the size of the room.
  • If the kitchen seems dark, consider adding LED under cabinet lighting for around $40.
  • If replacing the countertops in the kitchen isn’t within your budget, consider using a top coat to cover the current countertops.

If you decide to complete a full remodel of your outdated kitchen, you can expect a 67% return on a $30,000 upgrade (the national median cost). The benefits of a kitchen remodel aren’t purely financial, according to Houselogic:

“Eighty-two percent of homeowners said their updated kitchen gave them a greater desire to be at home, and 95% were happy or satisfied with the result.”


Bottom Line

Kitchens and bathrooms are often make or break for buyers when touring a home or searching through photo galleries online. 

 

posted from Keeping Current Matters – November 23, 2016