Home Seller's Guide - closer look at...

Remodeling Checklist
Remodeling or expanding your current home offers a viable alternative to selling and buying new - especially if you are particularly fond of your neighborhood.

Remodeling can be a real hassle, but sometimes it's the right choice. Consider these factors before deciding to take the plunge.

  • Do you like your current neighborhood?
    If you're happy with your neighborhood but are moving because you need more space or want a more luxurious home, you may be able to satisfy your needs with a renovation or addition.
  • Is your lot large enough?
    Before you can even consider a remodel you need to make sure that your lot is large enough and that the zoning allows the type of project you are considering.
  • Is your home suitable?
    Not all homes are ideal for remodeling. While you may be able to force a renovation on an unsuitable property, the results are liable to be disappointing and the costs high.
  • Do you want the headaches?
    Home improvements can be difficult and time-consuming. It's important to determine if you are truly willing to put up with all the hassles involved - not the least of which is the disruption to your life during the work period.
  • Consider the financing.
    Improvement financing is different from mortgage loans used for purchasing a home. If you have sufficient equity in your house you can probably work with a home equity loan. If not, you'll need to get a construction loan that is based upon the value of the property after the project is complete - a more expensive and complicated type of financing.
  • Do you have a contractor?
    Finding a good contractor is not always easy. If you have someone you've used before - or someone recommended by a trusted source - getting your project started will probably be lot easier.
  • How long will it take?
    Some projects can take a considerable amount of time - even more than selling and buying a new home. Don't forget to consider the time spent working on a design, picking out materials, and hiring contractors.

Design Ideas
Architects and designers are often very talented professionals - but only you know what you want and need. If you really want things to turn out well you'll need to take a very active role. Look at homes, read magazines...whatever it takes to decide what you want.

LISA F. CIOFANI  Assoc. Broker
REALTOR-ABR GRI CRS CDPE
Institute of Luxury Homes Marketing

2314 Boston St.
BALTIMORE, MD  21224
Direct:  410-960-4555
Office:  410-823-0033
Fax:      410-675-1552
Honlis@aol.com

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