Buying a fixer-upper offers an array of advantages, but it comes with risks. You can take advantage of lower prices and opportunities to put your stamp on your new home, and enhance value significantly, but there are some alarming pitfalls. Restoring an old house or carrying out extensive repairs and upgrades involves a lot of work. In this guide, we’ll outline some priority jobs to tackle and share tips to help you achieve a successful transformation.
Organizing a home inspection
The first thing to do if you find a property you love that needs substantial work is to organize a home inspection. Before you exchange contracts or commit to buy, it’s hugely beneficial to analyze and evaluate the findings of a thorough inspection. Surveys flag issues you may not have spotted, and they can also give you insights into the general condition of the building and the severity of problems you noticed during your viewings and visits.
It’s important to use your survey to inform decision-making going forward and help you decide if this is the right renovation project for you. If there’s a high risk of spending huge sums of money and going over budget, you may want to reconsider. You can also use the home inspection to negotiate a better offer if you feel like your situation has changed. You might decide to lower your offer or ask the vendor to pay for specific expenses or repairs, for example. If the seller refuses, you can back out as long as you haven’t exchanged contracts.
Checking the roof
The condition of the roof can impact other parts of the property, as well as the cost of renovating your new home. If the roof shows signs of extensive or severe damage, or there are large parts missing, for example, it’s best to get quotes from roofing companies in the local area and see how much you’ll need to spend. Focus on reputable, highly rated roofing contractors, and get several quotes. It’s worth noting that it may make financial sense to replace the roof rather than carry out repairs that offer short-term solutions.
If your home inspection or an independent assessment by a roofing company flags significant problems, it’s always beneficial to tackle them as soon as possible. This will reduce the risk of issues, such as damp patches, leaks, and structural damage.
It’s also worth exploring the possibility of fitting a new roof if you’re interested in energy-efficient materials or you’re thinking about installing solar panels. You may be able to save money in the long run by spending more initially.
Updating heating systems
Many old houses that haven’t been modernized have outdated heating systems. If the system doesn’t function, or the furnace is more than 10-20 years old, it’s a good idea to seek expert advice. You can find out more about repairs, upgrades, and replacement systems that utilize cutting-edge, energy-efficient technology. You may also want to explore different designs and styles, especially if you’re replacing radiators, for example. You can buy some stunning bathroom and living room radiators that create a new focal point and maximize usable space.
If you have a dated heating system, you should find that replacing it helps you keep your home warmer for longer and save money in the long term. It’s worth getting quotes for different options and calculating short and long-term costs and savings before you decide what to do.
Insulating your home
Poor insulation is common in old houses. Modern properties retain heat much more effectively. If you’re taking on a project, it’s wise to invest in insulation. This will help you lower energy consumption and costs as soon as you move in. If your home is well-insulated, you can also enjoy warm, cozy living spaces, even when it’s freezing outside.
There are various options to explore when it comes to home insulation. If you want the best results, it’s advisable to contact local companies that specialize in residential insulation services. You can also use DIY products and hacks to reduce heat loss, such as sealing holes and gaps.
Replacing old or damaged windows is another way to improve insulation. New doors and windows can also help you enhance security, block out noise, add value to your home, and increase energy efficiency. Double glazing makes a huge difference to the feel of the room in terms of keeping heat in and reducing external noise. New windows and doors can also play a key role in overhauling and updating the aesthetic of your property.
Updating the electrics
Old wiring, appliances, and power points can pose risks and affect performance. If you’re purchasing a run-down house that needs serious TLC, check the electrics. You may need to rewire the house, which is a significant job. You’ll need to hire professional electricians to do any type of electrical work on the property due to the risks associated with repairs, upgrades, and replacements.
Remodeling your kitchen
For many of us, having a beautiful, functional kitchen is one of the top priorities when fixing up or renovating a house or apartment. If your kitchen is cramped, dark, or dated, or it doesn’t flow nicely or provide sufficient space, remodeling can make a big difference.
Kitchen remodels come in all shapes and sizes. From cosmetic upgrades and adjusting the layout to full-scale renovations that include extending the floor plan or adding new areas, there are options to consider for all budgets. Before you make any decisions, set a budget, think about your lifestyle and what you want and need, and look for ideas and inspiration. Contact top-rated local companies that specialize in kitchen remodels, and discuss ideas. Aim to create a plan that suits your requirements, style preferences, and budget.
Buying a fixer-upper is a great idea for many reasons, but it can be a roller coaster ride. There’s often a huge amount of work to do, and costs and timeframes can spiral out of control. If you’re tempted to take the plunge, it’s important to be aware of critical jobs. Examples of tasks you may need to prioritize include organizing a home inspection, checking the condition of the roof, updating heating systems and electrics, remodeling your kitchen, and insulating your new home.