Practical Guide: Renovate A Home - Expert Instructions

Question

Is it worth it renovating a house?

Paul Dashevsky
Contractor Matching Service Co-Founder

Paul Dashevsky is the co-founder of GreatBuildz, a free service that matches homeowners with reliable, pre-screened general contractors. GreatBuildz was founded by a team of real estate and construction experts who believe everyone deserves to find a great contractor, have a stress-free renovation, and enjoy their beautiful new space. GreatBuildz connects homeowners with reputable contractors who passed their rigorous screening process and signed their code of conduct. GreatBuildz also individually selects contractors for the specific project and provides ongoing support to ensure everything goes smoothly.

Paul Dashevsky

Contractor Matching Service Co-Founder

Expert Answer

That all depends on the house! We recommend you hire a good building inspector before you decide to renovate. They'll check the house for costly repairs, such as termite damage and structural issues.

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Question

I am moving and the hardwood floors throughout the entire home must be refinished. Can I live in the home while refinishing the wood floors, moving furnishings from room to room?

Community Answer

You can live in the house, but oil-based polyurethane is the best material and it smells. Also it will probably cost much more for the contractor to keep coming back, rather than having him do the house all at one time.

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Question

How do I smooth out a popcorn ceiling without a contractor?

Community Answer

Get a ladder and tear it off with a flat spatula, then plaster it or paint it.

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Question

There are so many problems with my house, which I own free and clear. Should I renovate, or try to buy a newer house?

Community Answer

It depends on what type of problems, the severity, and if you can fix them yourself. Another thing to consider is the housing market and how likely it is that you'll be able to get a return or profit after all the expense of the work is said and done.

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Question

I'm in the process of buying a fixer-upper. It needs extensive renovations, and I'm going to try to do most of it by myself. I will not be living there while I fix it up. Where do you suggest I begin? Should I start with the basement?

Community Answer

I would start with the roof and work your way down. No sense in fixing the wall if there is a hole in the roof in case it rains and ruins your wall. You might want to consider fixing the foundation, if it needs it, right after the roof. That way your roof can protect the rest of the house and the foundation will support the other work you are doing.

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Question

Is fixing a foundation a big deal? I know it depends on the severity of the damage, but it seems people tend to avoid properties with foundation problems.

Walls Asia Architects And Interior Designers

Community Answer

Fixing a foundation can be a significant issue, but it doesn't always mean a building is unsafe or beyond repair. The seriousness depends on factors like the type of damage, soil conditions, and how early the problem is addressed. Minor issues, such as small cracks, can often be corrected with methods like underpinning. Have major foundation problems assessed by qualified professionals for safety and proper planning during renovations.

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