If you haven’t already begun, now is the perfect time to begin planning for your spring home projects! Whether you are looking to tackle an expansion or to update your furniture, you will have to face the question of “how am I going to pay for this?” With careful planning, a spring home project should not put you into significant debt. Take a look at our best tips on budgeting for a home project.
1. Have a Realistic Vision
Will that new home trend you have your eye on stand the test of time? Can you justify spending thousands of dollars on an outdoor kitchen if you only grill once or twice a summer? Set realistic expectations for your design to stay on budget.2. Shop Around and Do Your Research
When you are hiring professionals, consider a few factors. Take a look at certifications, licensing, pricing, reputation, and customer testimonials. Get advice from experts and referrals from friends who have gone through home renovation experiences. Be thorough in your research in order to get an idea of the scope, price, return on investment, and how your renovations would contribute to the property value of your home.If you are looking for projects to get the most bang for your buck, choose projects that are simple, energy-efficient, and low-maintenance as well as fitting in with the property value of similar homes in your neighborhood. Find inspiration in the following popular home improvement projects:
- Wood deck upgrades
- Re-roofing the house
- Vinyl or foam-backed vinyl siding replacement
- Adding an extension
- Kitchen updates
- Bathroom remodel
- Basement remodel
- Energy-efficient lighting and appliance upgrades
- Landscaping the front yard
3. Plan it Out
Every successful project starts with a considerable amount of planning. Be sure to map out the details of your project in order to maximize efficiency and minimize stress. Organize a timeline and budget for your project. This planning phase of your project could potentially save you tons of money.
4. Seek the Help of a Professional
DIY home improvements can feel rewarding, but if done poorly, it could cost you even more in time and money to have work redone. Consider if the project is worth your time and effort. Do you have the necessary equipment and expertise to complete the project properly? Additionally, there are projects that should definitely be left to professionals, such as electrical, plumbing, and gas work. If you decide to seek the help of a professional, read these tips for hiring a home improvement contractor.5. Search for Financing Options
To help keep your budget under control, seek out financing options. St. Cloud Federal Credit Union offers a Home Equity Line of Credit. The Home Equity Line of Credit is a form of revolving credit that allows you to withdraw money when you need it using the equity of your home as collateral. Currently, St. Cloud Federal Credit Union is offering an introductory rate of 2.99% and no closing costs.*2.99% is an introductory rate for 24 months. After the introductory period, rates will go into standard pricing (Prime Rate + 1%). Available for a limited time only to qualified borrowers on approved credit.
Whether making spring cleaning changes or complete renovations, get started with a realistic goal, plenty of research, a well-thought plan, professional assistance, and financial help from St. Cloud Federal Credit Union.
