Answering all your Renovation Questions below!
Finding the Right Place
Q. What made you decide on this place?
A. I always knew I wanted to invest in property. But I’ll admit I wasn’t actively looking until summer of 2020. I initially thought I would have got something that was walk in ready and already PERFECT but after looking at the market I knew it would be smarter FOR ME to not max out my credit and buy something that had the potential to generate passive income and increase in value. I looked for places lower on my budget but in great areas, near new development, schools, stores and not far from town. Once this place popped up in a GREAT location with minor updates, I didn’t hesitate to put in an offer and was able to close under asking price.
Q. Who would you recommend for inspections and valuations?
A. I used Charterland for my valuation as I found them to be reasonably priced and because I was given the option by my bank to select anyone from a pre approved list. I say this because some banks will organize this for you.
For inspections I would recommend Westpoint.
Budget
Q. How did you budget for redecorating and remodeling with island prices?
A. When I decided to go with a ‘fixer upper” I knew it wouldn’t be something that would happen all at once. I made a plan of the updates that were nonnegotiable for me, timeline of when everything would get done and began pricing how much this would cost me. I started by getting quotes and pricing stuff in stores / online to find the best price.
Knowing this wouldn’t be my forever home I took advantage of putting done a lower downpayment so I could use those additional funds for renovations. The closing process also took a few months so that gave me the opportunity to save additional money. Lastly I started incorporating the cost of updates into my monthly budgets to ensure I was getting projects done timely without overextending my finances.
Q. Have you gone over budget?
A. YES! Unfortunately. This is typical with renovating. Things come up that you didn’t expect, for me it started with having to remove two layers of tile before installing the new flooring. But the best advice for anyone and even myself when I take on another project is to have a cushion in your budget for any unexpected expenses.
Decor & More
Q. What color did you paint the walls?
A. Agreeable Gray by Sherwin Williams
Q. What are you plans for curtains / blinds?
A. I plan on doing roman curtains in the kitchen and living area and regular curtains on gold or black metal rods for the bedroom and office.
Q. Where did you get your cabinets from and who installed?
A. I went with “Real Wood Cabinets” they were recommended by a friend who was also renovating their kitchen and looking for the best deal. They ordered and installed them.
Q. What/Who is your interior design inspiration?
A. If I had to pick I would say Joanna Gaines but really Pinterest has just been my best friend lately. Whenever I need inspo I just browse on there.
Q. What has been the best part of this process?
A. Without a doubt seeing everything come together … slowly but surely. I also really enjoy doing some of the projects on my own, like using chalk paint to repaint the bathroom vanities.
Q. What has been the hardest part of this project?
A. Patience. I really want everything to be done! This is the first time since college that I’ll have my “own space”. Living at home has definitely been great for saving and seeing family since moving back from college … but it’s time to have my own space again.
That’s all the questions for now, I’ll be sure to keep you all update on my IG stories as things progress. If you ever wanna binge watch my updates check out my “Renovations” story highlight! @kelsiebodden
Lastly you’re gonna wanna follow me on Pinterest for all your home inspo!
