Sneaky ways to save on your home remodel

The remodeling process will test your patience, budget, and sanity but if you stick with it, you can end up with a home that you’ll never want to leave. Not only will you love your new home more, but its value can increase significantly. A remodel can be a great investment and you can maximize your investment by finding ways to save money where you can. Here are some sneaky ways that you can save on your next remodel.

Pit contractors against each other

Yes it sounds mean but contractors are used to it and are often willing to negotiate prices to secure the job. If a contractor gives you a quote that’s just outside the budget, say that so-and-so from "competing company" quoted you this lesser amount and ask if he/she can match it. The worst they can say is no but if you’re lucky, you can get a better deal.

Know where to cut corners

There are times where you can cut corners and times where you shouldn’t. Do your research and learn to tell which is which. Some projects, like repainting the interior, are relatively inexpensive but make a major difference while some of the most expensive upgrades aren’t very noticeable so select which projects you’ll do carefully.

Time your remodel for the offseason

Most homeowners wait until spring or summer when the weather is warmer (and they’ve recently received their tax returns) to do home remodeling. But that’s when contractors are the busiest and aren’t hurting for work. Put your tax return into savings and wait until January or February when contractors have a lot of downtime and they’ll be anxious for a job and may settle for a lower price.

Shop for floor models

When appliance stores get in their new models, they’ll often clearance out the floor models to move them off the showroom to make room for the new arrivals. You can get great deals this way. Sometimes, you can get a dented or scratched model for cheap even when the cosmetic damage is on the side of the unit and won’t be visible when it’s installed.

Get ready-to-assemble cabinetry

Custom-made cabinets is one of the most expensive aspects of a kitchen remodel so opt for a budget or mid-level cabinets instead.

Reuse materials

Some contractors may have leftover materials from a previous job that they’d love to get rid of and you can get them for a fraction of the cost.

Source: Realtor.com

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