Remodeling A Home Can Be "Oh So Sweet" or Bittersweet

In this current time of real estate challenge, many are taking on remodeling their homes for two primary reasons: 1) To make it more attractive to compete when selling it; or 2) Deciding to stay put and make the current home more desirable instead of buying a new home.

The problem arises when the small, seemingly manageable project, turns into an expensive nightmare. This came home to us recently when my daughter and son-in-law decided to paint their living room. Easy task, right? Not so much... the contractor who was hired painted OVER the wallpaper after telling them he was a professional and it would not be a problem. Well, as the paper got wet it began to bubble up and the result was a fiasco! So the paper gets pealed off and the imperfections of the wall begin to surface. To texture or not to texture - both paths have issues. Needless to say, the time and the money that eventually poured into this project continued to grow.

It is interesting that just yesterday I ran across an article that might have helped them so I wanted to share it with you. It basically offers 4 steps to avoiding a remodel disaster. If you are considering a remodel job, take a moment to read this article. http://www.bankrate.com/finance/real-estate/4-steps-to-prevent-a-remodel-gone-wrong-1.aspx

• Research before the job starts
• Document everything
• Raise concerns immediately
• Escalate if necessary

As realtors (and homeowners) ourselves, we understand the key remodel jobs that improve the home value. We actually have two places on our website regarding "Preparing Your Home For Sale". There is some good information there, and we are here to help, too! www.floridagulfproperty.com