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A Small Guide to Your Bathroom Renovation Checklist

A bathroom renovation is quite an exciting task. When renovating a bathroom, it’s easy to look down on Pinterest and obsess over how it will look while forgetting how vital its functionality is. A well-planned bathroom renovation will make sure that your space is not only enjoyable to use but that it will not need remodeling for some time. No one wants to renovate twice! Before jumping to choose the latest tile or bathtub design, some important things to consider so your renovation turns out just the way you dream it. It may seem that renovating a bathroom can be overwhelming, time-consuming, and costly. We have prepared a simple bathroom to remodel checklist to ensure your project stays on track and the project schedule runs smoothly. 

1. Budget

If you still don’t know that you need to work up an idea of how much you’re willing to spend on your bathroom renovation? Setting a budget will help you make decisions about what you want to include in the remodel. Once you’ve figured out what you can spend and subtracted the amount allocated to labor, you’ll have a clearer understanding of what you can spend on tile and fixtures.

2. Time Frame

A bathroom renovation will take more than a few days. It sometimes doesn’t even matter how big your bathroom is either. The duration will depend on the number of items to be replaced. You may even need to consider the time spent on ordering and purchasing materials like tiles and fixtures. Consider giving a time allowance for the cabinets and other items that are customized. Typically, a complete three-piece bathroom can take 1-1/2 to 3 weeks; this is a safe timeline. If this is your only bathroom, then arrangements will need to be made for this or do the renovation over the holidays.

3. Usage

It would be best if you considered how many people will be using the bathroom and when. Even a double sink may require the bathroom’s users to often get ready at the same time each day. You should consider the users’ age too – if small children are using it, a bath may be necessary.

4. Storage

Storage is critical for every room in your house. You should have enough space to store your toiletries, a dustbin, laundry bags, and a lockable medicine cabinet. You may even want some open shelving in your hall to display your precious things. Shaving cabinets with mirrors are a great way of incorporating storage above the vanity while maximizing storage.

5. Lighting

Your bathroom is often used for applying make-up or shaving, and great lighting is essential. A bathroom’s lighting should comprise of natural light paired with intelligent task lighting (dimmers can be great for creating mood). ‘Skylights’ could be an excellent addition for an internal bathroom that doesn’t have windows, but in case you do have a window, you’ll need to decide whether to install frosted glass or leave it straightforward to enjoy the view.

6. Final Clean

The final clean should include a thorough cleaning of all cabinetry, ductwork, walls, floor, windows, and light fixtures. It will help if you consider contracting a cleaning service, which could mean additional costs that will impact your budget. If you think you can clean yourself, you may need to add a day or two to your initial timing.

5 financing options for your home renovation in British Columbia

Many homeowners postpone or avoid home renovations because of the cost. But this doesn’t have to happen to you. There are financing options available to help Canadians improve their homes without the stress.

If you are considering a home renovation, here are 5 financing solutions that could help you get started soon.

1) Out of pocket or credit card

If your home renovation project is small or easy to complete, you might prefer to pay for the materials and labour yourself. Whether you rely on your savings or a credit card, you can get the job done quickly. However, avoid using all of your savings, because you should keep some money set aside for unexpected costs. And if you finance your small home renovation with a credit, be mindful of high interest rates and try to pay off the balance as soon as possible.

2) Personal loan or line of credit

Consider borrowing the funds for your home renovation. With a personal loan, you could benefit from a lower interest rate and short-term repayment options. If your renovation is an ongoing or long-term project, you could choose a personal line of credit. This will help you avoid paying unnecessary interest, because you only access the funds when you need and pay interest on the amount you use. This option could give you more flexibility throughout your renovation.

3) Home equity loan or mortgage refinancing

With a home equity loan, you are securing the funds with your home’s equity. If you’re considering a major or costly renovation, you could refinance your mortgage and benefit from lower interest rates when compared to a personal loan or credit card. Although mortgage refinancing and home equity loans may require additional time and fees to set-up, you could benefit from low interest rates and flexible repayment terms.

4) Grant and rebate for an energy-efficient renovation

If you’re planning to renovate your home to increase its energy efficiency, you could be eligible for grants or rebates from the federal, provincial and municipal governments. Some local utilities also offer programs to benefit homeowners making energy-saving renovations. For example, if you finance your energy efficiency renovation with CMHC-insured financing, you could be eligible for a premium refund of up to 25% from CMHC Green Home.

5) Grants for seniors

Canada offers multiple home improvement assistance programs to help seniors improve the safety, accessibility and energy efficiency of their homes. For example, low-income seniors and people with disabilities can get financing for home modifications that enable accessible, safe and independent living. Home Adaptations for Independence provides homeowners and renters with forgivable loans up to $20,000 per home. For individuals over 65 who are making certain permanent home renovations, the BC Seniors’ Home Renovation Tax Credit offers assistance with a refundable personal income tax credit.

For more information about financing options for your next home renovation project, consult your lending institution or a financial advisor. Make sure you know all your options and choose the solution that works best for you, your budget, and your long-term plans. 

If you need advice or help to create the budget for your home renovation project, give us a call to schedule a consultation.

Stuck at home this summer? Upgrade your home!

Due to the impact of the coronavirus, your summer plans may have changed. International travel is limited, the kids are staying home, and you might still be working at home. Since you’re probably spending a lot more time in the house than you expected, this could be the perfect time for a home renovation.

To make your home more comfortable and enjoyable this summer, consider expanding the living areas, upgrading the bathroom, or remodeling the kitchen. With one or more home upgrades, you can make the most of this unexpected time at home.

Here are a few ideas for your home upgrade this summer:

Bathroom renovation

Your bathroom must have a practical and functional design. That shouldn’t stop you from adding elements of beauty and luxury. Try adding a new floor or modern tiling to make your bathroom feel extra special. Or, for an affordable renovation that feels like a major upgrade, replace the fixtures. With new lighting and plumbing fixtures, including the sink, faucet, and showerhead, you can change the bathroom’s style completely. Your renovation can also include smaller changes that add color to your space. How about painting the walls, hanging artwork, or adding plants? Be creative!

Kitchen renovation

So much family time is spent in the kitchen. That’s why you should maximise the space for everyone to enjoy. One trick to making your kitchen feel larger is with paint. Choose paint colors that make the room feel more open, and add accent colors to highlight a nook or small space. Also, you can install new tiles or a backsplash to update your kitchen’s style.

For a more dramatic upgrade, change your countertops or add an island to expand your prepping area. By replacing one or more appliances, such as the refrigerator or stove, you can change the entire look and feel of your kitchen.

Basement renovation

For many homeowners, the basement can be an underused or wasted space. Don’t take your basement for granted, and start spending quality family time down there. Your basement renovation can include minor changes, such as new paint, improved lighting, or upgraded furniture. Or, change the purpose of your basement by turning it into a home office, guest bedroom, or play area for your children.

No matter how you choose to improve your home this summer, you can add instant value to your home. Plus, your family will be grateful for the beautiful place they can call home – not only this summer, but for many years to come.

Need some help with your summer home renovation? Contact us to schedule a consultation. We’re here to help your home reach its full potential.