Defining Your Needs: Assessing Your Home Repair and Improvement Requirements

It can be challenging to prioritize which home repairs and improvements should take center stage. After all, even small improvements aren’t cheap, so you must be diligent in defining your needs and assessing your repair requirements before making a decision. From the roof to the windows, here’s how to prioritize your projects so you can make the improvements that fit your needs best right now. 

Make a List

All good decisions start with a list. In order to properly and methodically assess your needs and wants, you’ll have to create a list of all the projects you would like to see done. In this initial draft, include any project, big or small, from minor repairs to major renovations. Next, you’ll have to categorize them into two categories: needs and wants.

Needs include essential upgrades or repairs that directly impact the safety or health of your family, such as a leaky roof, broken stairs, and outdated electrical systems. Wants include projects that you would like to do but that aren’t strictly necessary, such as a new deck, renovated kitchen or landscaping upgrades. Focus on the needs first. 

Focus on High-ROI Projects

Next, consider return on investment (ROI) for the various projects you want to tackle. Some projects add more value to your home than others, which can be important if you decide to sell the home later. Typical high-ROI projects include kitchen and bathroom remodels, decks and patios, and landscaping upgrades. Not only do these projects add value to your property but they enhance quality of life as well.

Know Your Limits

Budget is a big consideration when it comes to home improvement projects. After all, overspending could put you in financial jeopardy. Before making any type of commitment to a home improvement project, determine your budget. Be sure to leave some wiggle room for unexpected expenses. Be upfront with your contractor about your budget in an effort to prioritize projects and keep everyone on the same page. Perhaps your contractor can even suggest some cost-saving measures.

DIY or Contractor: Consider Skillset and Time

Many homeowners are faced with the decision of hiring a contractor or doing things themselves. Before you jump onto the DIY bandwagon, realistically think about your skillset and your available time to do the project. You may be able to split the two between a contractor and DIY efforts. For example, most homeowners can handle painting a room or replacing hardware but choose to hire a pro when it comes to more complex projects such as roofing repairs, window replacement or kitchen remodel. 

Just be honest with yourself. If you attempt something outside your skillset, it may end up costing you a lot more in the long run than if you just let a contractor do it.  

Contact Allstar Construction for Exceptional Home Improvement Services

If you need help defining what you need in terms of necessary home improvements and repairs, consult with our expert contractors today. Get an online quote and schedule your on-site consultation today!

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