Enhancing Value and Energy Efficiency: A Successful Home Renovation Project

Problem or Opportunity: The main objective of the home renovation project was to modernize an aging home while staying within budget, without sacrificing quality and meeting building codes. The homeowner, architect and construction manager collaborated to design a plan that balanced affordability and quality, and the construction manager ensured the project was completed efficiently and on time. The project aimed to address the problem of outdated infrastructure and improve the home's functionality, energy efficiency, and value.

According to the National Association of Realtors (NAR), 30% of remodeling projects are completed to upgrade worn-out surfaces, finishes, and materials, with the second most common reason being to add features and improve livability (20%). Additionally, The National Renewable Energy Laboratory states that residential buildings are responsible for 21% of total energy consumption in the US, making energy efficiency a critical aspect of any home renovation project.

Solution: To achieve the desired outcome, the design and planning process was carefully managed, with a milestone schedule put in place to keep time and financial resources under control. During the construction phase, semi-stock kitchen cabinetry was used to keep costs down while still providing a high-quality look, and MDF products were avoided to reduce the exposure of our construction crew to potentially toxic gasses. We also did not want to expose visitors to any lingering potentially toxic MDF wood dust. The flooring was 100% hardwood, which was chosen for its timeless appearance, durability, and versatility. The expansion of the home focused on adding a bedroom, full bath, and walk-in closet while optimizing the existing layout and floor plan. There were also "smart home" upgrades made and improved energy efficiency.

Results: Despite the well-laid plans, the project faced several challenges during construction, including the need to address code violations that had been overlooked by previous owners. To stay within budget, one of the managers of NREMG got involved and helped with the work, and cost savings were achieved by purchasing bulk construction materials on Amazon and taking advantage of discounts at major retailers like Home Depot.

The project was ultimately completed on schedule and within budget, and the results exceeded the expectations of the homeowner and the architect. The renovation resulted in a significant increase in the home's appraisal value and energy efficiency. According to Remodeling Magazine's 2022 Cost vs. Value report, the average return on investment (ROI) for a mid-range home renovation project, such as this one, is 52.6%. This renovation project also helped the homeowner reach their goal of increasing the home's resale value.

This home renovation project serves as an example of how to effectively address the challenge of remodeling on a budget while still achieving high-quality results. The collaboration between the homeowner, architect, and construction team, along with the use of cost-saving measures, allowed the project to be completed within budget while meeting the goal of increasing the home's value. The project highlights the importance of thorough planning, attention to detail, and a focus on quality, regardless of budget constraints. As a result of the renovation, the increased value of the home demonstrates the potential financial benefits of investing in home improvement projects.

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