Ready for a remodel but don't know where to start? We feel your pain. In fact, our real estate staff works with home shoppers and sellers to improve their properties among Beavercreek homes for sale, and we are often asked for advice on the topic. So read on and let our REALTORS® share some of their suggestions for getting a handle on home improvement projects.

First Steps
Don't feel bad because you couldn't get your project organized, accomplished, and glowingly perfect within an hour, like the people on the home improvement shows you like to watch. In the real world, it takes a bit longer.

Before we get into the nitty-gritty of project management, let's just say that if you can afford to hire someone to manage your redo, why wouldn't you? We can think of one reason: Maybe you want to learn how to manage a home improvement project, and starting with your own home is a good way to get grounded. Fine. Now that you're committed to overseeing your home improvement, let's take the first step.

You're going to need a floor plan and 3D renderings. You could hire someone on a site such as Fiverr app, but a couple of 3D renderings will be pricey. It's certainly cheaper than hiring an architect, but if you need more revisions than the one or two allowed and you need lots of designs and layouts, go another route. Try ArcSite (it's free!) for your floor plans, measurements, and cabinet layouts. Try Planner 5d to make your own 3D renderings and save considerably.

More Home Management Tricks

1. Make a list of everything to be done. It will help you stay organized. Give your master list to the main builder, if you have one.
   
   
2. Make detailed specs, so you can get multiple quotes.
   
   
3. If you're coordinating with various subcontractors, make a master list that shows who is responsible for each task, including cabinets, plumbing, and electric work. Make sure each subcontractor has a copy of the specs, and they are all apprised of what the other is doing. Also, make detailed sublists for each aspect of the project, so there will be no misunderstanding about what you want. Certain projects may look minimalist but will be quite detailed, like a sleek, modern bathroom requiring: builder's specifications, with layout and elevation drawings with dimensions; an electrical specification with a lighting plan; a plumbing specification with layout drawing; and a decorating spec — just for instance.
   
   
4. Make a schedule so you can track progress and keep all informed about who's on-site when.
   
   
5. Resist the urge to start on the project before you complete your plans.
   
   
6. Order enough materials — be it flooring, tiles, paint, whatever — to create a reasonable sample of what the finished design will look like, rather than just the few bits the supplier gives you. It'll cost more but you won't take a chance on hating what you've ordered and being stuck with an entire load of materials.
   
   
7. Pay attention to wood types and grains when planning custom cabinetry. You may save money on using less expensive kinds of wood on the insides and splurging on the panels.
   
   
8. To visualize how your space will look, use flooring paper and painter's tape. Having trouble figuring out how wide your kitchen cabinets should be? Painter's tape can help.

Our real estate staff can help with lots more advice on upgrading your Beavercreek home so it sells, as well as helping create the masterpiece you want to live in. Contact Wright-Patt Realty today.