Add Value to your Home

If you have decided that a remodeling project is in your future, make sure that you are following advice from professionals! A good contractor is worth his/her weight in gold, and if you are paying ANYONE to do work in and around your property, do your homework to ensure that all rules, regulations, codes and paperwork are completed and filed appropriately. Vet all contractors before the work begins.

If you need help finding that perfect contractor, there are a select few reputable companies who specialize in matching them with homeowners. For hassle-free home improvement through FREE referrals to licensed, dependable contractors for any project, consider Home Solutions at http://www.homesolutionsconnection.com/. There is no need to pay membership fees or deal with anonymous national internet companies for contractor referrals. Home Solutions Connection is local, available by phone if you'd like, FREE and follows through every referral to confirm your complete satisfaction with the licensed, dependable contractors they recommend.

To make sure you are getting the most out of your next remodeling project, it is important to follow advice from the pros. You're sure to save yourself many hassles and headaches!

Good plans equal great results

Successful remodeling projects require careful planning and a realistic budget. "Many people want to build it cheap and fast," says builder David Lisenby, certified graduate remodeler, of Lisenby Construction. "They want an estimate before they even have a plan." A solid strategy will ensure that the homeowner and the builder are on the same page, saving both parties time and money.


Quality counts

Potential homebuyers have more sophisticated tastes than ever. That's why spending a little extra on good design, quality materials and careful craftsmanship can garner big rewards when it comes time to sell.


Insist on coherent design

A good remodel or addition should complement the original structure. Pay particular attention to roof lines, trim details and window sizes and styles.


Meet expectations

What buyers want varies from area to area and from one price range to the next. Do some comparison shopping to see what your competition will be like should you decide to sell. And talk to a real-estate agent who knows your neighborhood.


Consider the neighbors

The value of nearby houses affects the value of your home. Remodeling or adding on to a house that's smaller than surrounding homes will yield a greater value than adding on to a house that's already one of the largest on the street. A general rule of thumb: Don't overbuild for the neighborhood.


Get permission

Before starting any type of remodel, make sure the design conforms to all local building restrictions. Some neighborhoods also have their own stipulations and design review processes. Double-check that necessary building permits have been acquired before construction begins.


Build up to code

Plumbing, electrical and building codes help ensure safety. Licensed contractors should perform work that meets all codes.


Exercise patience

If you can, wait for the right time to sell. “In a strong market, the value will catch up with the cost,” Lisenby says.


Know the market

Some types of remodeling projects can return more than average and speed up resale.

Experience matters

Substandard work on your remodel is a buyer turnoff. "You don't want someone learning on your project," Lisenby says.


(Thank you to Louis Joyner of the Home Builders Association of Alabama and Debbie Farson of Home Solutions Connection for some of these tips.)