Home Seller's Guide

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

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.