Janet Cook
Owning a home is a cornerstone of the American Dream. It is an achievement that represents hard work and perseverance with the benefits of security, financial growth, and becoming established in a community. Ninety five percent of home purchases were existing homes, often generic in design to a style popular at that time. For example, separate dining rooms were standard, then were eliminated for an open concept design, and now are making a comeback to create an intimate space separate from activity and noise. The bottom line is, is your home suited to the way you want to live?
There are many psychological benefits of having a customized home that is uniquely yours—it influences how one feels, thinks, and acts! What is missing to make a more positive impact? A kitchen that becomes the heart of family gatherings that brings out the chef in you? A spa-like bathroom retreat? A great outdoor living area, an outdoor kitchen? A guest house? Remodeling can transform your home into a reflection of your lifestyle and personality.
Sometimes there can be a hesitancy of not knowing where to begin. Here are some steps to get started so you can enjoy your dream home sooner than later!
* Think about what isn’t working for you. What would you like to change? Do you want a clutter free kitchen with a better flow to facilitate gatherings and entertaining? A luxury feel bathroom with a no threshold walk-in shower? Would you like a second master suite (also growing in popularity)? Do you need a space for hobbies, work, or a quiet retreat? Want an attractive laundry room? More storage, natural light? A casita?
* Gather some photos online on such sites as Houzz or Pinterest that are examples of the results you are hoping for, they are an excellent communication of your vision and preferences. It can also help you think of what are your must haves.
* Establish your budget range with the goal of the cost and the maximum in case of unforeseen issues behind walls that will need to be fixed. A professional designer will provide recommendations on how to maximize your design within your budget, and guide you on material selections accordingly.
With that, it’s time to schedule an appointment with a reputable design-build firm. It is the experienced designer’s job to offer ideas and solutions and propose a design within your budget for your feedback and final approval. They want to help make it easy, and you want to get on the schedule! It is so fulfilling to have a remodeled home to suit personal style and life dynamics. You will be happy to have your home made new, just how you want it to be!
Happy Home Remodeling! Happy 250th Independence Day!
Janet Cook, Certified Health Coach and Aging in Place Specialist, President of Cook Remodeling (celebrating our 47th yr.) invites you to check out their blog for photos and ideas.