Remodeling a not so new home

This article “Remodeling a not-so-new home” written by David Norman, President of Caliber Construction Group was published in the Feb 26, 2023 edition of the Houston Chronicle.  Read it online at Chron.com

Are you considering buying a ‘new’ home? You might get lucky and find a turnkey property, with everything already updated and a style that you love.  If not, you will need to decide whether to get renovations done before you move in.

Having your new home renovated before moving would be ideal because there’s nothing to do after you move in. But that will depend on the scope of the remodeling that needs to be done and the amount of funds that you have available.  On the flip side, waiting a few months to renovate your home after moving in has its advantages. You can move in sooner, which will be important if you need to move out of your old home by a certain time. More importantly you can get a “feel” of the house and have time to plan your renovation more thoroughly.

If you plan to wait to renovate, it’s a good idea to handle issues that need immediate attention such as roofing, plumbing, electrical and HVAC systems. Consider replacing flooring, windows and doors and painting while the house is empty.

Design trends, technology, and layout preferences change over the years. Most homes undergo an update every 15 to 20 years. The kitchen, for example, may need to be remodeled every 20 years, as its cabinet, countertop and backsplash styles, and functionality become outdated. 

Kitchen cabinets and countertops are where you see the most dramatic trend changes. For instance, Corian solid surface materials were first introduced in 1971 at the National Association of Home Builders exhibition here in Houston. At the time, they only came in white but became a popular alternative to laminate countertops for years. Currently, natural stone, quartz and quartzite are top countertop selections, influenced by their organic qualities, low maintenance and durability.

Once you decide what improvements you want for your new home, put your projects in order in terms of importance. If you think you might move in a few years, consider resale value. Always look for a qualified professional remodeler who has experience with the types of projects you would like to do.  Check the BBB of Greater Houston and South Texas online, a reliable source to learn about a company’s reputation.