Contemplating a new home design? Whether you’re ready to revamp a few rooms or redo the whole house, there are a handful of things to think about before you kick off a high-end residential remodel in Boston. The more you know before start a project, the happier you’ll be when it’s finished.
DGS/a Architecture will guide you through each part of the design phase, working closely and incorporating your ideas into a workable solution – but there’s more to it than hiring an Architect and calling it a day. Here are five things you need to know before you do a high-end residential remodeling project:
Work with a professional architect.
Plan for the long-term.
Not all luxury remodeling pays off at the closing table.
Stay flexible and plan for changes.
Know that all luxury remodeling projects hit a “slow point.”
#1. Hire a Professional Architect
If you’re planning a luxury remodeling project, it’s absolutely essential that you work with a local Boston Architect like DGS/a Architecture. The bottom line is that there is perhaps no other profession that requires such a broad knowledge of so many things under one umbrella: History, art, physics, politics, geography, geology, engineering, materiality and of course, good design. This extensive training and education is put to use melding your vision with your existing home. Why local? Zoning regulations play a critical role in what you can and cannot build. These rules are very specific to Boston.
#2. Planning for the Long-Term
As you put together the plans for your remodeling project, it’s important to think ahead – not only toward the immediate future, but at the big picture. Most experts suggest you plan a remodel for the home you’ll need in 5 to 10 years, which may be a bit different from the home you want right now.
It’s also important to remember that some remodeling projects don’t pay off if you sell your home immediately. Ideally, you’ll make improvements and renovations because you want them.
#3. Not all Luxury Remodeling Pays Off at the Closing Table
Some remodeling projects practically pay for themselves, but the vast majority don’t. Make improvements you want – not improvements that you think future buyers will want or that you hope will pay off if you eventually decide to sell.
Statistically, you’re more likely to recoup an investment that relates to the structure of your home or to maintenance (like a new roof) than you are for remodeling. The amount you get back when you sell depends on many other factors, too, including the values and comparable features of other homes in your neighborhood, and the current market conditions. Luxury remodeling in the kitchen and bathrooms are more likely to pay off more than other projects, so if that’s what you’re considering, you could be giving your future self an extra boost if you decide to sell.
#4. Stay Flexible and Plan for Changes
All remodeling projects take time, it’s imperative that you stay flexible.
Sometimes timelines get pushed in one direction or the other, materials don’t show up when they’re supposed to, or other things come up. Nearly every luxury remodeling project has a few unexpected twists. However, the key is being able to adapt to minor changes (nothing major should change once the plans are finalized) and keep the end of the project in mind. Spend time and money getting the design right and you will happier in the long run.
#5. All Luxury Remodeling Projects Hit a “Slow Point
Demolition goes fast – before you know it, the parts of your home you’re improving are torn up. But when electrical and plumbing work begin, it seems like the project is slows down. That’s mainly because you’re not seeing results (and because that type of work is typically more involved than demolition).
Most projects, large or small, hit a “slow point.” When you hire the right team, you can rest assured that your design and build team will communicate with you every step of the way.
Are You Thinking About Starting a Luxury Remodeling Project?
If you’re planning to remodel your home, your first step is to talk to a professional Architect with a stunning portfolio of projects. Call me at 617-216-7643 to schedule a consultation today. DGS/a Architecture can help you plan your home design and walk you through each step of the process.