Home remodeling projects are a major undertaking, both financially and emotionally. And unfortunately, many homeowners end up dissatisfied with the results. A recent study from Hover and Ipsos found that 58% of homeowners experienced a time delay that averaged about 40 days. More than a third of homeowners said they paid more than the original quote, which added up to an average of $19,000. Nearly half of homeowners experienced a problem that they believe the contractor may have been able to control or avoid. These seemingly preventable problems make the homeowners stressed, and contribute to them avoiding future projects. More than a quarter of the homeowners surveyed said the project stressed them out and 16% had to leave their home during the project, 14% had to spend less time with friends or family, and 10% said it put a strain on personal relationships. These factors led to 21% of homeowners who would not do another project. From that group, 1 in 4 would rather get a tooth pulled than go through another renovation process.
So, what can be done to improve the home remodeling experience? One important step is to increase transparency and communication between homeowners and contractors. This can be done through the use of technology, such as 3D modeling and project management software. 3D modeling allows homeowners to visualize their projects in advance, which can help to avoid misunderstandings and costly changes later on. Project management software can help to keep track of progress and identify potential problems early on, which can help to avoid delays and cost overruns.
Another important step is to find a contractor who is experienced and reputable. Ask for references from previous clients, and be sure to get a written contract that outlines the scope of work, the timeline, and the budget. By taking these steps, homeowners can help to improve their chances of having a successful home remodeling experience.
