If your anything like me, your renovation or home improvement dreams are inspired every time you turn on HGTV, DIY Network or attend the local home and garden shows. We all want to save money and stick to our budgets whenever possible. Here are some things you can do in order to save time, money and frustration:
- 1. Always make a plan for your projects. Prioritize your projects based on need, cost and benefit to you and your family.
- 2. Be flexible with your design and materials.
- 3. You can easily save big money with discontinued, close out, overs tock and returned special order products.
- 4. You can also save big by shopping online. If you have your eye on a particular item, shop on line to make sure you are getting the best deal. Keep in mind, you want to build extra time into your project plan to ensure you receive special order items when they are needed for installation.
- 5. Don’t be afraid to ask for volume discount when purchasing a large quantity of products like tile, lumber, etc.
- 6. Don’t be afraid to negotiate if you are purchasing big ticket items like appliances or electronics. Retailers have large margins on these products and want to turn over their inventory. Their can also be big savings if you purchase scratch and dent or previous year models. Shop smart!
- 7. Saving money on sales tax can be as easy as driving from Houston to other outlying areas. Some websites who do not offer big box locations in your area, may not charge sales tax.
- 8. Keep all of your receipts and familiarize yourself with your retailer’s return policies.
- 9. If you choose to have a contractor do the work for you, make sure you get references and check them out on the internet (Better Business Bureau, Google). You should also get referrals from friends and family members for each trade.
- 10. When getting bids, let the contractors know you are collecting multiple bids and you will be checking references.
- 11. Do not hesitate to ask contractors for a copy of their trade license (electricians, plumbers, HVAC professionals, exterminators, inspectors, etc) and certificate of insurance (General Liability, Errors in Omissions).
- 12. Once you get your bids and decided on a contractor, don’t be afraid to ask for a discount for paying in cash.
- 13. If you are somewhat handy and willing to take on a project, you can go to your local home improvement center and sign up for a “how to” class. This is also a great time to call in any favors from those friends and family members who may have experience with a project you are less experienced with. This is another great way to keep money in your pocket.
- 14. Conversely, be careful not to bite off more than you can chew. Some things are better left to the professionals.
Thank you for visiting Integrity Property Inspection Services, PLLC. As always, our goal is to help keep your home safe by not only performing detailed home inspections, but also provide with the little home maintenance items that will help you protect your investment for years to come. Whether you are looking to buy a home, or have owned your home for years, a home inspection will help ensure that you are educated on the condition of the home. Contact IPIS, PLLC today to schedule your home inspection appointment. Schedule Today!