(NC)-Nothing breathes new life into a home like a refreshing update to a favourite room. First-time renovators may feel a bit of anxiety - it's understandable, as there are many elements to consider. What's your dream for the space? What's doable within your budget? And what will actually add value to your home long-term?
Real estate experts will tell you the answer to the latter question is to focus on the kitchen, the room with the most value-add for resale. It can also be the room that takes the most work to renovate. As we all know, the key to a smooth and satisfying kitchen renovation - whether an overhaul or just a facelift - is to stay on budget and on time. Tough to do in this economic climate? Maybe, but with every challenge comes an opportunity. Tax rebates are making home improvement projects more appealing than ever. Many home retailers are icing the cake with additional discounts and incentives to make renovating more cost-effective than before.
Before you embark on your new kitchen renovation, here are a few simple tips from Rebecca Brennan, Brand Manager, GE Profile. Keep these in mind and you'll complete a stress-free project to be enjoyed for years to come:
1. Before you start dreaming, get a reality check. "Modeling your kitchen after the latest magazine spread might sound good at the time, but think about how you're likely to use your home three, four and even five years down the road," says Rebecca. "If you're planning on growing your family, make the marriage between design, style and practicality your priority."
2. Discover your options! "Many renovators find themselves avoiding dropped ceilings, crown molding or overhead cabinets to accommodate appliances like a standard-height refrigerator," warns Rebecca. . . "But some appliance manufacturers put a lot of thought and research into what people need. The HandiHite bottom-freezer refrigerator from GE Profile is under 66" tall, but still offers 20 cubic feet of storage." Don't be so quick to rewrite your plans - it's worth the research to see what's out there to accommodate the unique needs of your space.
3. Take advantage of rebate programs. Although it will take some effort, look into the provincial and municipal rebates available in your area and the application processes you'll need to complete. "Rebates apply in many areas of the home and to a variety of different products," says Rebecca. "A bit of reading will help you make the right choices and save money that you can apply to other areas of the renovation."
4. Realize your limits. "Some elements of a renovation are simple enough to tackle yourself," says Rebecca. "But when it comes to plumbing and electricity, invest in a professional. You'll be glad you did when the job is done right, accident-free!"
5. Plan a dinner party as your goal. "We all need a bit of motivation!" says Rebecca. "There's no better way to keep on schedule than to plan the dinner party of the year to show off your new appliances, décor and renovation-savvy to family and friends. If you've done your renovation right, your guests won't leave the kitchen!"
To learn more about making your renovation dreams a reality, get your inspiration from GE Appliances: www.geappliances.ca.
- News Canada