There are always costs involved in homeownership when things are outdated or fail to perform in the way that they are intended to. Sometimes a clear answer as to whether to repair or renovate the space comes naturally; but in many cases, deciding which is the best path takes much more thought and consideration.
Defining Repairs and Renovations
To understand whether the right answer is to repair or renovate, it is first important to define both. Repairing an item involves modifying an existing home feature to bring it back to its original state of functioning. Home renovations involve replacing existing items in the home with something new. The definition of a home renovation is sometimes more complex than this, but for our purposes, we will keep things simple. An example of a repair might be replacing the glass in an existing window, enlisting the services of a plumber to fix a leaky faucet or asking an electrician to replace the heating element if an oven is not working properly. Renovations might include replacing old appliances in the kitchen with new ones, exchanging a leaky faucet for something that is eco-friendly and conserves water or adding new windows throughout the house.
One of the advantages of renovating a home instead of repairing items is that the solution can be simpler. When you renovate, you do not necessarily have to diagnose the existing problem. For example, the reason why your old oven is not heating properly is not so important if you plan to replace it. Quality renovations often include more extensive warranties too, and this can save you from future headaches and expenses. Renovations also have the potential to increase property value, and they give a home a fresh and updated appearance.
Evaluate Aesthetics & Cost
Sometimes, making repairs is the best choice. If your windows are original to the house and perfectly fit the style of your historical home, new windows might not be as aesthetically pleasing. In this case, switching out old panes and painting might be the better solution. Some renovations are not cost effective either. If you plan to sell in the next few months and hope to make a fair profit, spending thousands on a kitchen renovation does not really make sense if all you are worried about is a leaky faucet. It is also worth considering that some home elements were manufactured to a higher standard in the past, and replacing a home feature that has lasted for thirty years with something that might last for 10 is not always your best move financially.
Consult an Expert
Deciding whether to repair or renovate involves thinking through your project, and sometimes, talking to the experts helps. Budget, timeline and what you are hoping to accomplish all come into play, and so do the current features in your home and what products are available to use as replacements.
If you are deciding between a home reno and a repair, Alair Homes Edmonton is available to help. Our commitment to customer service means we will listen to your concerns and provide you with valuable information about your options and costs. We never want a customer to start a project unless it makes financial sense to do so and always provide clients with free, no obligation consultations to help them determine the right path. To learn more, give us a call.