You did it! You bought a fixer upper and it has so much potential. But… now what? Sometimes after buying a home that requires a lot of love, it can be difficult to envision how you are going to unlock that potential. And even if you can envision it, the steps to getting there can often be overwhelming. Don’t worry–we’re here to help and to assure you that it will all come together, just like so many fixer uppers that we’ve had the privilege of watching become dream homes over the years. If you’re having a hard time seeing the road to your perfect home, keep reading for the order we often recommend handling renovations when you’re planning for multiple projects.
Fix Roof, Walls, and Ceilings
If your fixer upper requires substantial repairs to the roof, ceilings, or walls–or if you’re reimagining the layout–this often makes sense to handle prior to move in. It’s important to make sure the shell of your home is stable before remodeling the inside of the home. Logistically, ceiling repairs (including removing popcorn ceilings) can be messy, so it’s often easier to handle minus furniture.
Install New Flooring
Installing new flooring in your fixer upper is also high priority for the same reason. If you’re replacing the flooring in a large portion of the house it’s generally much easier to do prior to moving furniture in. This project is also one that will greatly increase your enjoyment of the home while boosting its value.
Service Your A/C
Especially in Florida, it’s important to make sure your A/C is working before moving in. You don’t want to be carrying furniture through a home without air conditioning! Especially if you’re moving during the summer months, this could cause a health hazard.
Upgrade the Bathroom
Since the bathroom is a smaller area, this is a room you can remodel at a lower cost and then use that feeling of accomplishment to fuel your next project. Making your bathroom feel luxurious is a great way to treat yourself and simultaneously boost the value of your fixer upper. Upgrades like a walk-in shower, freestanding tub, new vanity, and fresh tile will breathe new life into the space and provide the features that future buyers will be looking for. Some smaller updates that you can make include adding backlit LED mirrors, freshening things up with a coat of paint, and upgrading fixtures like shower heads, cabinet handles, and faucets.
Renovate the Kitchen
A complete kitchen renovation is something that can generally wait, but is a project that will bring so much functionality and value to an outdated home. The kitchen is truly the heart of your home, you use it every day for cooking meals, and it’s an area people tend to congregate when you’re entertaining. Adding a kitchen island creates so much space for daily tasks and a new area for guests to gather. Combining this with an upgrade to granite or quartz countertops will bring a luxurious feel to the space while also allowing you to benefit from features like high heat resistance, durability, and low maintenance. Replacing or painting your cabinetry will really tie the space together, while items like a new sink and faucet will modernize the look while also bringing ease to regular tasks. Touchless faucets are a great example of how a small upgrade can add so much convenience to your day.
Switch out the Windows
Changing your windows out may have a high upfront cost, but if you have an older home it will save you money monthly on your energy bill. Living in Florida, upgrading to hurricane-impact windows can also offer peace of mind in a storm.
Straight Line Construction is Here for Your Renovation Needs
Our showrooms located in Gainesville and Ocala offer a wide selection of quality products and styles for your next home renovation project. But even for the most capable DIY-er, there are some projects that are better handled professionally. If you need a hand turning your fixer upper into the home of your dreams, don’t hesitate to contact the professionals at Straight Line Construction. Our team of design consultants, contractors, and seasoned construction experts are here to bring your vision to life. Whatever you need during your renovations, our team is here to support you.