Renovations are always stressful. Add the unique logistics of a condo into the mix and the stress can feel overwhelming. Stairs, elevators, neighbors, HOAs, and tight spaces can make an already complicated task even more complex. Before you decide to put off your condo reno or cancel it altogether, here are some often-overlooked ways to improve the results and make the process go smoother:
1. Consider the Purpose of Your Renovation
The first thing you will want to do, and one of the most often overlooked aspects of a renovation, is to define why you’re renovating. Defining your intention adds clarity. It answers questions that inevitably pop up along the way. And it helps you allocate your budget to the details that matter most.
If you’re renovating for resale purposes, you will want to keep in mind the taste of future buyers.
Want more space but don’t want to move? Your renovation will center on maximizing the layout of your property.
Need a more work-from-home friendly condo? You will want to invest in design aspects that inspire creative and productiveness while providing tranquility.
2. Hire a Qualified Professional Interior Designer
When it comes to condo renos, an experienced, professional interior designer is worth their weight in gold. If you read the previous section and realized that you may not know how to design for your intended purposes, then hiring a qualified interior designer is a must.
But an interior designer’s expertise won’t just benefit you when it comes to general design. You are also investing in their experience working in condos. They can guide your choices to improve the overall space and logistics of your renovation. A pro will also help you navigate your HOA by-laws and regulations. Some will even coordinate your contractors to minimize disturbance to your neighbors.
Working with a professional can also help you schedule deliveries strategically, so tradesmen can move about the space without hurdling over the bulky items that are not needed for some time.
3. Condo Renovations Come with Limitations: Embrace Flexibility
When renovating a condo, one thing is clear: additions are usually out of the scope of possibility. Because of this, you need to consider that you only have a limited amount of space to work with. Furthermore, you may only be able to move certain elements so much. For example, your HOA may not allow you to change the location of 220-outlets. This limits where you can move many larger appliances.
Your interior designer can help you work around (and even celebrate) these limitations with smart design choices. They will likely be able to inform you about restrictions you may not know about, as well.
For example, many homeowners aren’t aware that they have cement ceilings, which makes moving light fixture locations costly and often impossible. Your designer can recommend light-maximizing fixtures and added light as a workaround.
4. Inform Your Neighbors & Check with Your HOA
Some HOAs require that you notify your neighbors of the dates of your renovations. But even if yours doesn’t, it’s still a polite thing to do. With so many people working from home, your neighbor may choose to work in a different room, go to the library, or work at a coffee shop during your reno.
Most importantly, you need to verify that you are within your HOA’s rules and notify them of your plans. The last thing you want is to cease work due to a by-law issue. Nor do you want to incur unnecessary fines.
Your interior designer can provide you with documentation and ensure your scope of work is within the by-laws.
5. Limit Work to Daytime Hours & Inform Your Contractors
Some contractors use day rates. Others charge by the job or hour. Either way, set clear guidelines about when you want them to work. Limiting work to daytime hours only is a considerate choice. Nobody wants to be woken up at 5 AM to hammering, nor do they want their kids to be trying to fall asleep to the sounds of drills.
Is Your Condo Do for a Makeover?
If you’re ready to renovate your condo, you do not need to go at it alone. I am ready to chat with you about the potential of your space. I have extensive experience when it comes to condo renovations, and I can guide you on the path to a more beautiful home. Contact me today and let’s get started.