Remodeling on a Tight Budget

How to Save Money Remodeling

Remodeling can be expensive and today homeowners are looking to save money and forego expensive remodeling projects. Even though homeowners are trying to cut back and have become more frugal, their homes still need repairs and remodeling upgrades to protect their investment. The high cost of remodeling and upgrade projects can more easily be fit into the budget by thinking ahead and doing them at the time of year when the material cost is lowest and concentrate on the really need to do projects.

You may ask how the DIY homeowner can escape the high cost of remodeling. Here are a few ideas on how to do your remodeling on a tight budget:

1. If you are in need for an appliance or fixture upgrade to remodel the kitchen buying new is nice, but there are other options that will do the job. Consider buying a used or recycled item. Often return items are restored by the manufacturer and sold at a discount. Nearly every major appliance dealer has these items in stock but you usually have to ask about them. Purchasing a restored or recycled major appliance can save you hundreds of dollars. A good place to look for used appliances in on Craigslist or simply Google a particular item you are interested in.

2. If you are planning a building project always buy your own materials. As a homeowner, you are considered the general contractor. Building contractors often mark up material they supply to cover their hidden cost. Purchase your material at a home supply center such as Lowe’s or Home Depot.

3. Do as much of the work as you can. You will be surprised what you can do. If you need a little assistance ask at the supply center. Home Depot and Lowe’s are happy to give “how to do” information. Most home improvements don't return what it cost to do them unless you do the work yourself.

4. Buy supplies or items out of season such as a furnace and insulation in summer instead of winter. Purchase air conditioning and landscaping supplies during the winter rather than in the spring. If you're planning a large remodel project you can take your time by buying the individual items and material when they are on sale and storing them in the garage until you're ready to use them.

5. If at all possible don’t finance the project. There’s no real need to pay the finance charges if it is not absolutely necessary. However, if you plan on putting your home on the market when you're finish the project you may want to finance the cost and pay off the loan when the house sells. Always try to get the biggest bang from your buck.

You can do your remodeling on a tight budget if you just plan it out and take advantage of sales and free help.