Some homes are ready for their new owners to move in right away, while others need varying degrees of remodeling. McDermott Remodeling recommends that all property owners ensure that the home is suitable for their needs before moving in. Whether you purchased a house that underwent remodeling before being put on the market or a fixer-upper in dire need, there is always something to be done to help you feel more at home.
Finding the Perfect Home
If you take your time when house shopping, it will be easier to identify a property that suits your needs perfectly, avoiding a remodel. Homes that have been remodeled before going up for sale are likely to be more expensive than those still bearing signs of the previous owners. It is advisable to spend the extra money to ensure your home has paint, tiles, electrical wiring and plumbing that is as good as new. When you come across a move-in-ready home that you do not need to remodel before moving in, make an offer immediately.
Alternatively, you can buy a cheap fixer-upper and dedicate the savings to remodeling it. This option is not for the faint of heart and is recommended for avid DIYers who can oversee the various contractors involved in the remodel. At times, property owners spend much more on remodels than they would have purchased a home that does not require any work before moving.
Cosmetic Remodels
Cosmetic remodels can be undertaken relatively quickly and with little expense. If you come across the perfect house, but it is painted a ghastly color or has a hideous front door, do not pass it by. Where the renovations to be undertaken before moving in are not complex, it may be worth your while to purchase the property and redo it before moving in. if an extensive search does not reveal a move-in-ready home, lower your priorities to homes that only require cosmetic remodels that will not take up much time, supplies, skill and labor.
Structural Remodels
It is not advisable to purchase a home that requires structural remodels unless it is offered at a throwaway price. Even then, buyers should beware because the cost of structural remodeling may go above and beyond the cost of purchasing a ready home or one that only requires cosmetic remodels. When house shopping, look for red flags indicating the need for structural remodeling. Should an agent mention knocking walls down or installing extra baths, turn and run because these are significant projects that will consume a lot of time and money. It is also advisable to steer clear of homes with severe structural issues, e.g. water damage or a damaged foundation.
Why Move in Before Remodeling?
Buyers whose homes need work may benefit from holding off a while before calling in the contractors. Unless your home is inhospitable, it is advisable to move in and get to know the house before gutting it. This will allow you to understand your home and remodeling goals. You will discover some original elements of the house that you like while identifying pain points that may not have been readily apparent during the viewing. For example, since natural light varies, you may find rooms that need additional windows. Some family members may also require extra storage space in their rooms.
Moving in before remodeling is guaranteed to save you money. You may cross off specific remodeling projects after moving in because you find the issue less problematic than anticipated. Moving in also allows you to perform phased remodeling by beginning with the most pressing issues and delaying those that can wait.
Why Remodel Before Moving In?
Remodeling before moving in is recommended for homes that need structural remodeling. If your home will need a significant addition or a gut renovation, it is advisable to complete the remodel before moving in. Even though you can live in your home during most remodels (except roofing, lifting, second-story auditions and tearing down exterior walls), it is not recommended because you will be subjected to dust, noise and strangers walking around your home.
If you would instead move in right away, be sure to ask your contractor what measures they will take to ensure you are safe and comfortable during the remodel. The best contractors provide plastic barriers, temporary kitchens and HEPA ventilation systems to reduce the inconvenience caused.
In conclusion, it is best to move in first, where only cosmetic remodels exist. If your home requires structural remodels, you are better off moving in after it is completed.