It’s August!

Summer was a long time coming this year. With all of the rain and cooler temperatures, it hasn’t been a typical summer either. So enjoy it when you get the chance.

What does your summer list of projects look like?

Let’s get started and turn over another leaf!

ORGANIZING A DECORATING/RENOVATING PROJECT

In June 2013 I wrote an article “Organizing a Decorating/Renovating Project.” Here’s a link to that blog post.

Having just completed a major home renovation, I can offer the following additional thoughts:

• Begin planning as far in advance as possible. Delays can be costly if you aren’t prepared.
• Make sure you include contingency funds in your budget. Be prepared for the unexpected–especially if you are opening up walls or renovating an older home. Bringing your home up to today’s building code requirements may be an additional expense. Electrical upgrades, improving insulation, etc. might be required.
  
• There will likely be items you wish to upgrade which you hadn’t considered. Think about your plans for the long term.
• Could your home benefit from an energy audit? A high home energy score could help sell your home–if that is in your plans for the future. Click here for more information on your home’s energy efficiency.
• Communicate frequently with your contractor.
• Keep a supply of plastic drop sheets handy–they will become your best friend.
• Prepare yourself for the frustrating moments, hours and even days. Despite all of your planning, they are bound to happen.
  

I’m happy to report that our renovations went smoothly. We were prepared as much as possible. Although we made several upgrades and spent more money than originally planned, it was worth the investment.

Good luck to two of my business colleagues. One is in the process of renovating an entire house–I can only imagine what she’s going through! The other one will be adding a commercial kitchen to her home–a big undertaking–in the very near future.

Remember, the end result will be worth it, as the drywall dust becomes a distant memory!

LOOKING AHEAD

Fall and back to school will be here before you know it!

Check out our Getting Organized for Back to School blog post from August 2012.