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7 Home Renovations that Add the Most Value

https://renosgroup.ca/2020/12/">December 11, 2020
By Keith Melanson
In Home Renovation Blog, Renovations

If there are areas in your home that have been neglected over the years, it’s a good time to consider a home renovation, especially if you’re considering selling in the future. Investing in a few home projects will help you sell it right, meaning you’ll get the most value for your property. To ensure you get the best possible ROI on your home, here are 7 home renovations that add the most value

Bathroom Reno

The bathroom is one of the best home renovations for increasing value – homeowners can usually expect to recover about 70% from this investment. Aside from its value, the bathroom is also one of the most frequently used rooms in the home, which means it deteriorates more quickly.

There are many fun and unique designs that you can choose from to modernize your bathroom and make it even more practical and luxurious. Consider replacing the vanity, improving any old plumbing, modernizing the shower with a glass door, retiling, upgrading the toilet to a low-flow, and replacing old faucets. A complete reno is the best way to go.

Fix Up the Backyard

Backyard lounging and entertaining is making a massive comeback, which is why focusing on outdoor areas and structures is at the top of our list of renos. Modern buyers today are looking for properties that are fairly turn-key, meaning all they have to do is move in and maybe perform a few cosmetic adjustments. If your backyard is in rough condition, it’s worth investing some time and money in the area before listing your home. Focus on redoing the deck, patio area, adding a new fence or creating a cozy fire pit zone. The key to making this worthwhile is to focus on low-maintenance designs. Your contractor will be able to advise you on how to transform your outdoor space so that you can enjoy it to the max while keeping the maintenance minimal.

Window Replacement

Homeowners today are more aware of their energy consumption than ever. They understand how much windows contribute to their heating and cooling expenses. If your windows are old and drafty, replace them with energy-efficient ones. This will also significantly improve the look of your home and you’ll most likely recoup the investment once you sell.

Refinishing the Basement

We are all spending more time at home these days. As a result, homeowners have gained a whole new appreciation for unused space, like the basement. This is often left as an unfinished and unused part of the home used primarily as the place to store old boxes. Well, not anymore. Buyers want all the square footage they can get, so when they’re hunting for a home, a finished basement is key. Adding insulation, moisture protection, and creating a brightly lit and inviting space to use as a den, home office or entertainment room, can get you up to 75% ROI on average.

Kitchen Upgrade

The kitchen is the heart of the home and it’s where we eat, entertain and congregate the most. It’s no surprise that a kitchen upgrade can be a very valuable reno to take on, when done right. If you have outdated fixtures, cabinets and appliances, these should be a priority on your to-do list. Invest in energy-efficient appliances, add new cabinets, a granite-style countertop, and complete the look with contemporary faucets.

The Front Door and Entrance

We all know that first impressions matter. When you step out to the curb and look back at your home, what do you notice first? Does the front door and entranceway stand out? If your front door has been there since the day you moved in, chances are it’s time to replace it. Repair any crumbling stairs and interlock, sand and repaint the handrails, and get your porch area in tiptop shape. When you list your home on the market, you want that first impression to be a positive one.

A New Coat of Paint

Lastly, giving your home a new coat of paint can work wonders. When repainting, make sure to prep any areas first by sanding them down and giving them a good clean. Choose the right type of paint and focus on high traffic areas. A fresh coat of paint can have a big impact on the look and perceived value of your home.

When you’re ready to invest in a home renovation in Ottawa and improve your resale value, get in touch with our licensed and skilled team at Renosgroup.ca, or give us a call at (613) 727-9427

5 Trends in Kitchen Renovations

https://renosgroup.ca/2020/11/">November 18, 2020
By Keith Melanson
In Home Renovation Blog, Kitchens, Renovations

If you love staying ahead of the curve when it comes to design trends, we’ve gathered the top trends in kitchen renovations that are heating up the interior design world this year. Check them out below.

Simple and Natural

Modern design is evolving to become more minimalistic. But having a minimal design doesn’t mean it has to look bare, cold or uninviting. It simply focuses on only offering the essentials of what you need. By eliminating the excess clutter, it gives you more enjoyment out of what you have. In modern kitchens today, we’re seeing more clean-cut lines, very little clutter and natural materials that eloquently stand out for the right balance of warmth and character.

Warmer Colours for Cabinetry

This year, one staple trend that’s catching on fast in the kitchen is incorporating warmer colours for cabinetry and other areas like the backsplash. Darker woods combined with tones of rich navy blue, forest green, brown, eggplant purple and even charcoal, create cozy and inviting interiors. When paired with white, cream, or light grey countertops, it looks undeniably eye-catching thanks to the contrast.

Golden, Copper and Champagne Faucets

Faucets play a big role in tying design concepts together and adding a touch of character and bling to the kitchen. In keeping with the warmer toned trend, we’re seeing more golden tones, copper and champagne coloured faucets donning kitchens in 2020. These play really well with the darker, colourful hues and add the perfect splash of luxury without looking too over the top.

Oversized Pantries

Thanks to COVID-19, homeowners are more eager to have well-stocked pantries to avoid making as many trips to the grocery store. As a result, oversized pantries are a hot ticket item for 2020 kitchen trends. If there’s enough room in your kitchen to make it happen, it’s well worth it when you don’t have to struggle to store or find things.

Classic Kitchen Style

With so much time spent at home and in the kitchen these days, we’ve been noticing a resurgence of kitchen designs that are rekindling cozier, traditional styles. In contrast to minimalistic and modern, these designs feature the classic shaker style cabinets in cream or white, along with glass panes, some exposed dishes, brass handles and hues of dark green or blue to accent.

If you’ve been spending lots of time in the kitchen and feel like it’s ready for an upgrade, our team at Renosgroup.ca can help to transform your space. We’ll work with you to incorporate the trends that suit your needs, lifestyle and budget. Contact us today, or give us a call at (613)-727-9427 to get started.

Most Reliable Home Renovations Nepean Has to Offer

https://renosgroup.ca/2020/10/">October 20, 2020
By Keith Melanson
In Home Renovation Blog, Renovations

Do you wish your home in Nepean, ON, had an extra bedroom for your growing family? Would you love to find clever ways to add more storage space to your bathrooms?

Then it would be best if you reached out to us at RenosGroup. We provide superior home renovations in Nepean and surrounding areas.

Nepean is a first-time homeowner’s dream. The sprawling neighborhood features some of the most affordable homes in Ontario.

That’s also great news for those wishing to make subtle changes to their new home. Since the neighborhoods are so affordable, you’ll have extra money for renovations. That way, you can turn your basement into a spare bedroom, add space to your bathroom, etc.

So if you’re curious about renovating your home in Nepean, then you’re in the right place. Read on to learn how we can create the home of your dreams with our renovation services.

Why Renovate Your Home in Nepean?

Nepean is very much a family-oriented neighborhood. The area is riddled with first-time homeowners and young families.

There are lots of shopping and dining options in the area, which is a plus. There are also top-notch health and dental offices nearby. It’s a desirable neighborhood to raise a family.

There are many styles of homes in the area, including:

Single-family homes
Townhomes
Terrace homes
Condominiums

Littered throughout these homes are excellent schools, recreational parks, and more.

So why should you undergo home renovations in Nepean? Well, there are many reasons why.

When you combine the diversity of homes with families, many reasons to renovate pop up, for example, adding another child to your family later in the year. All of a sudden, you’re short a bedroom.

What should you do? Force your existing children to share bedrooms? Sleep on the couch indefinitely?

That’s when the thought of renovating enters your mind. You have a large basement that’s currently occupied with boxes and laundry. Why not reach out to us at RenosGroup to transform it into a new nursery for you? That way, each child has a space of their own, and you don’t have to give up your bed.

That’s just one of the many uses for renovations. Other examples include:

Adding to the resell value of your home. Are you planning on selling your Nepean home in the near future? Then undergoing some innovative renovations can help you get the most bang for your buck. Is your kitchen a disorganized mess? Then you can rely on us for the best kitchen renovations Nepean has available. The same goes for your basement, bathrooms, and more. By making your home more appealing with our renovations, you’ll be able to sell your home for a lot more.
Improving practicality. Does your home have a ridiculous layout in the kitchen? Do you have to walk half a mile to get your cooking tools? Then that’s the perfect reason to renovate. All too often, homeowners think renovating is strictly superficial. In actuality, renovations encompass far more than visual upgrades. We can help you add more storage space, rearrange your cabinets/shelves, and more. That way, you can have everything where you need it in your kitchen, basement, and bathrooms.
Spruce up a dull home. Do you not feel warmth or inspiration from your home? If so, then something is wrong. Luckily, renovations are the remedy for this problem. At RenosGroup, we have an in-house interior designer. They will work with you to come up with an exciting look for your home. Instead of feeling dread when at home, you’ll be happy, energetic, and motivated.
Add new capabilities. No home is 100% perfect, and homeowners often have specific little changes that they want. Renovations are excellent because they can help you tweak your home until it’s just right. So what do you want out of your home that you don’t currently have? Would you love a full-service bar or a wine cellar? Have you always dreamed of turning your basement into a home theater? The sky is the limit when you have our expert team by your side.
Do you live with a disabled family member? Is your elderly mother having trouble getting around the home? Then you’ll be happy to know that we offer mobility renovations. These are tweaks and changes that will make your home more accessible. Examples include adding a seat to your shower, handrails in the bathroom, chair lifts, and more. We can make drawers easier to open, as well as raise/lower your bathroom fixtures.

As you can see, there are many reasons why you should renovate your home. Doing so will add value, new capabilities, and a nice visual upgrade. Our renovations can help you transform a decent house into the perfect home for your needs.

DIY vs. RenosGroup in Nepean

Now that you know why you should renovate, who should you choose for the job? Should you attempt to tackle the renovations by yourself?

While it may seem tempting to renovate DIY-style, we highly recommend against it. Why’s that? Here are a few reasons why DIY renovations can spell disaster for you:

You’re on the hook for any mistakes. Let’s say that you want to install new tiles in your kitchen. Since you’re inexperienced, you make a mistake and do incredible damage to your floor. Sadly, you’ll be 100% responsible for the repairs. Unless you’re a jack-of-all-trades that masters every aspect of renovating, leave it to the pros. At RenosGroup, we’re licensed and insured for our work. That way, you’ll never have to pay for any costly mistakes.
Unremarkable craftsmanship. As previously stated, unless you’re a renovating genius, you’ll have a lot of weak areas. Sure, you may be able to do drywall like nobody’s business, but can you install new countertops? Do you know how to woodwork and create cabinets? Have you ever installed a floor coating? As you can see, there’s so much that goes into renovations. By hiring us at RenosGroup, we’ll provide incredible craftsmanship for each aspect of your renovation.
Time-consuming and risky. Major renovations aren’t something that you can knock out in a weekend or two. If you have a full-time job and a family, you won’t have enough time to renovate. There’s also the 80% curse of the DIY’er. Many will choose to ‘take a break’ once they reach the 80% completion mark and never return. At RenosGroup, we finish every job that we start in a timely manner.

So if you want to spare yourself costly repair bills and a ton of time, then you need to hire us instead. We offer the best home renovations Nepean has to offer by a longshot. You’ll be in great hands when you choose us.

Our Renovation Offerings

When it comes to renovations, we do it all. Our expert team is capable of renovating any room in your home. Not only that, but we never use subcontractors to ensure the quality of our work. Here’s an in-depth look at each type of renovation that we offer in the area.

Kitchen Renovations in Nepean

Your kitchen is one of the essential rooms in the home. You’ll do all your cooking and eating here, so it’s crucial that your kitchen looks great.

An ideal kitchen has a practical layout and a cheery appearance.

Your kitchen should be vibrant and pleasant so that you’ll enjoy spending time there.

What does your kitchen look like right now? Is it dull and dreary? Do you dread having to cook even a single meal there because of its poor layout?

Then you need to reach out to us for the best kitchen renovations Nepean has around. We’ll revolutionize the way that you approach cooking in your kitchen. Here are a few popular kitchen renovation ideas:

Open shelving. If you hate constantly opening and closing cabinets to retrieve your cooking tools, consider open shelving. Open shelves look stylish, and they’re very practical. Now all your essential tools and utensils are easy to access. That will make cooking meals a total breeze.
Kitchen islands. Do you not have an open area to cook and store appliances? Then it would be best if you got in touch with us to install an island for you. We can create all sorts of kitchen islands, including ones that have sinks and storage underneath. A kitchen island is perfect if you don’t have anywhere to store your blender or coffee maker.

So if you want a new kitchen with modern frills and appliances, don’t wait to get in touch.

Bathroom Renovations in Nepean

Are your bathrooms outdated and cramped? Then we’ll put an end to that immediately. Our team can help you design amazing bathrooms that are convenient and pretty.

We can also help you make your bathrooms more accessible. If you live with elderly family members, we can raise/lower the fixtures as needed. We can also add handrails, shower seats, easy-to-open drawers, and more.

Nobody wants to spend time in a bathroom that’s unorganized, dated, and ugly. Our interior designer and plumbers will make your bathroom a pleasant place to be through our work.

Themes work well to make bathrooms more visually appealing. Our designer loves to create gorgeous themes for bathrooms. If you want to

breathe some new life into your bathrooms in Nepean, please don’t wait to get in touch. We offer the boldest bathroom renovations Nepean has around.

Basement Renovations in Nepean

Not enough homeowners get enough use out of their basements. Instead, they limit their basement to

storing things or doing laundry. That’s a shame because basements offer so much potential.

Your basement is part of the square footage of your home. It would be a waste not to get something out of it.

Basement renovations tend to be some of the most fun for homeowners.

That’s because you can think of your basement as an extension to your home. So if there’s something that you wish you had, you can use your basement for it.

A few examples would be using your basement for a wine cellar, a game room, or a home theater.

A prevalent basement renovation idea is to use the basement as a second living room. You can add a sofa, TV, kitchen area, and more. Basements also make fantastic guest rooms. If you’re feeling bold, you can turn your basement into a hotel suite. That way, you can rent it out on Airbnb to make some extra money.

We’re renowned for offering the most robust basement renovations Nepean has to offer today. If you want to add something fun and original to your home, you should use your basement as the canvas.

Why Choose RenosGroup?

By now, you probably have a few renovation ideas of your own for your home. The only question left to answer is why should you choose us for renovations? Here are the main reasons why we’re your best bet for home renovations in Nepean:

Free in-home consultations. No other contracting service offers free consultations. We’ll visit your home before ever charging you a dime. That way, we can lay our eyes on your property and get a feel for the project. We’ll take detailed measurements as well as provide you with an accurate quote.
An in-house team of experts. We never have to use subcontractors because we have such an extensive team. We’ve got plumbers, carpenters, electricians, interior designers, and more. That ensures that we have total quality control over every project that we take on.
Total transparency. Our contracts are always written in plain English. You’ll never run into any tricky clauses or hidden fees. Instead, we shoot straight with our clients 100% of the time. If you want to work with fair and honest contractors, please don’t wait to give us a call.

Final Takeaways

Nepean is a family-friendly neighborhood with lots of styles of homes. There are lots of young families and first-time home buyers. As a result, there are lots of reasons to undergo home renovations in the area. If you want the best home renovations Nepean has available; you need to choose us. Please don’t wait to fill out an online form or give us a call at (613) 727-9427.

The True Cost of Kitchen Renovations

https://renosgroup.ca/2020/10/">October 11, 2020
By Keith Melanson
In Home Renovation Blog, Kitchen Page, Kitchens, Renovations

The average kitchen in a new home today is 306 square feet up from kitchen size of years past. If you’re in an older home, you might be looking around your kitchen and thinking, “I need more space!” Is it time for a kitchen renovation? Do you want to enlarge your kitchen or just do a small kitchen renovation? No matter what the project, you want to know the true kitchen renovation costs involved. How much does it cost? Keep reading to learn what you can expect to spend.

Kitchen Renovation Cost

When thinking about how to renovate a kitchen, do all of your ideas show up with a price tag? Probably not. Let’s look at the costs involved in a kitchen renovation.

Major Renovation Remodel

Does your kitchen need a major gut job? Moving or removing walls, or taking them down to the studs and starting over means replacing everything. New plumbing, electrical, lighting, wall finishes, cabinets and hardware, flooring, countertops, and backsplash…this is considered a major kitchen renovation.

Adding in design fees, your average 15′ x 15′ to 25′ x 25′ kitchen renovation will cost anywhere from $40,000 to $60,000+. Generally, a good rule of thumb is to budget 15-20% of your home’s value.

Create your wishlist before getting estimates to be sure to get everything you want in your new kitchen.

Minor Renovation

Maybe you want a new layout, new cabinets and countertops, updated lighting, new flooring and appliances, but not a “start all over” type of remodeling. This includes putting in semi-custom cabinetry, new flooring, paint, and backsplash. A mid-level remodel such as this would cost between $20,000 and $40,000+. Costs will vary depending on the type of finishes and materials you choose.

Upgrade Your Kitchen

If you’re looking to just upgrade your cabinets, countertop surfaces, add a fresh coat of paint, new flooring and backsplash, your budget does not have to be as high. With no changes to the layout and the cabinets being refaced or replaced with basic semi-custom cabinets, the project is not as extensive nor as costly.

For a kitchen upgrade, expect to spend $15,000 to $20,000+ for an average size kitchen. A kitchen upgrade is a great idea if you are going to be selling soon or within the next couple of years.

Before you start your kitchen project, you need the answer to your big question of how much does a kitchen renovation cost. Having the budget for a job well-done will save you money in the long run.

Do you know who can help you with your kitchen renovation? We at RenosGroup.ca are here for you. We are a family-owned and operated renovation team. We can customize your home to deliver exactly what you envision for your remodeled space. Remember…kitchens sell homes so you want to do it right. Contact us or give us a call at (613)727-9427 to schedule an appointment for a free quote.

How to Create the Perfect Home Office

https://renosgroup.ca/2020/09/">September 21, 2020
By Keith Melanson
In Home Renovation Blog, Renovations

With many of us now working from home, we’ve had to makeshift office space on the fly, whether it’s on the corner of the dining room table, a nook in a spare bedroom or even out on the patio. But with at-home work becoming more of a permanent structure, taking some time to create the perfect home office is important so you can eliminate distractions and get work done.

Here are some key points to remember when creating space for your business at home.

Find the Right Location

The most important step for creating a home office is choosing the right spot. Since you will likely be spending hours there each day, you want to ensure it’s as comfortable and quiet as possible. So choose wisely.

Consider Workflow and What You Need

Your home office space should work for you. Before you jump into the layout of it, think about your workflow, and what you need to optimize functionality and efficiency. Your desk, shelving, furniture and any storage units should serve specific purposes based on your needs.

Don’t Skimp on Your Office Chair

You’re going to be spending lots of time in your chair, so make sure it’s a comfy one. This is one investment that’s well worth it, so shop around to find one that’s ergonomically correct for you, works well with your decor and above all, offers full-body support.

Add Some Colour to Your Home Office

Working in a space that resembles a bleak-looking office cubicle isn’t going to help motivate or inspire you to get down to business. The design and colour can drastically impact your mood and creativity.

So don’t be shy with your design. If your home office is in a spare room, choose a colour that you love and that will help get your creative juices flowing.

Position Your Desk with a View

No one wants to stare at a blank wall all day. It’s depressing and unmotivating. If you have a window, take advantage of it by positioning your desk close to it so when your eyes need a little break, you have something interesting and soothing to look at. If you don’t have a window, hang a mirror or your favourite piece of artwork.

Creating the perfect home office is all about making your space work best for you by encouraging you to stay focused and motivated on those days when it’s a serious struggle. If you’re ready to transform an area of your home into an office, let our team of reno experts help.

At Renosgroup.ca, we can assist with the design, layout and installation. Contact us today , or give us a call at (613)727-9427 to learn more.

5 Tips for Renovating a Small Space

https://renosgroup.ca/2020/09/">September 8, 2020
By Keith Melanson
In Home Renovation Blog, Renovations

Do you have a small home or condo that you want to upgrade? Even with limited space, there are many ways you can get creative to increase storage while modernizing the look of your home. To get you inspired during this reno season, here are a few handy tips for renovating a small space.

Start by De-Cluttering

Before you get started with any renovation, it’s always a good idea to eliminate as much clutter around your home as you can, especially if you have limited space to work with. Having less stuff not only helps your contractor work more efficiently, but it also helps smaller spaces look bigger. So start by assessing the items around your home and then donate or discard anything that’s never really used or appreciated.

Determine the Purpose of the Renovation

Before diving into any renovation, stop to think about what exactly you’re hoping to achieve with it. What’s the purpose of the reno? Maybe it’s increasing storage space or natural light, creating a guest suite when friends or family stay over or making the kitchen more eat-in friendly. Whatever the reason, it’s important to nail it down so you can make sure you end up with the functionality and result you desire.

Always Consider Extra Storage

To incorporate easy fixes to boost your storage capacity, consider adding furniture that doubles as storage or even built-in couches. Also, utilize shelving towards the ceiling to store items that are rarely used.

Stick with Open Concept

Whether you have a smaller home or condo, having a boxed-in design with lots of walls or hallways can make any interior feel dark and stuffy. That’s why open-concept layouts have been the staple of modern interior design for years. This one change can make any space look bigger, brighter and more inviting.

Make Bedrooms Look Bigger with Coffered Ceilings

Do you have small bedrooms that you want to improve? An optical-illusion design trick that’s often used to make rooms feel bigger is a coffered ceiling. Inspired by Baroque and Renaissance architecture, this decorative element has been used to create a touch of elegance, texture and spaciousness. It essentially adds upward indentations into the ceiling with attractive patterns. Consider this if you want something more elaborate for your bedroom or living space.

When you want to renovate your small home or condo in Ottawa, give the renovation experts a call at Renosgroup.ca. We can transform your space to look bigger, brighter and modern. Contact us today, or give us a call at (613)727-9427 to get started or to learn more about how we can help you.

Ways To Pay For Home Renovations

https://renosgroup.ca/2020/08/">August 26, 2020
By Keith Melanson
In Home Renovation Blog, Renovations

Planning home renovations can be both exciting and scary to a homeowner. Some home improvements come from necessity, such as replacing a roof or upgrading your plumbing. Other home improvements increase the functionality and comfort of your home. One of the most overwhelming aspects of home renovations for many people is how they will pay for their desired home improvements. It can be especially overwhelming if the improvement is coming from necessity and is not a planned renovation. In this article, we will outline several different options you have to finance your plans and look at the pros and cons of each choice.

Save Money

Perhaps the most obvious and straightforward way to pay for home renovations is to save up the money. Saving money is also one of the hardest ways to pay for home renovations and improvements. The advantage of using money that you have saved up is that you will not incur any additional debt during the home renovation process. Using liquid assets, such as cash, also means that you will not have to go through lengthy application processes. You will also be able to avoid paying high-interest rates and lending fees.

However, since most people do not have a surplus of money in their bank accounts, this option will require some planning.

Some of the options you must save the money you need include:

– Cutting back on discretionary purchases

– Saving all extra money

– Taking on additional jobs or working additional hours

– Selling things in your home that you no longer use

The major downfall of saving the money you need for your home renovations is that it will likely delay your projects for several months. And when other emergencies come up, you can find yourself delaying your home renovations even longer. This option could also mean that any quotes you have received from your general contractor can change. Saving money is also not a feasible option if you find yourself needing a repair done immediately.

Credit Cards

Another option to save the needed money is to use a credit card that you already have, that has a high enough credit limit. If there is not enough money on it, you can apply for a credit increase. If you choose to use this option, ensure that you are not carrying the balance for too long, as credit card interest is generally high and can add up quickly.

Personal Loans

Depending on the home remodeling project you are taking on, and how urgent the renovation is, saving money may not be the best choice. Another option is to take out a personal loan. Depending on how much money you need to borrow and what kind of interest rate you can get, a personal loan is an excellent way to borrow money without putting your home up as collateral. Interest rates can vary from 2.49% up to 36%. If you cannot get a loan at a low-interest rate, this can be a very costly option.

Personal loans are a good back up if you are unable to obtain financing through any other means and putting off the home renovation will cost you more money in the long run. For example, if your roof is leaking, it is better to have it repaired and pay more in interest then to let it cause further damage since the additional damage will cost you more money over time. However, if you just want to change the carpets in the bedroom, that 20% interest rate probably will not be worth it, and you are better off using a credit card or saving the money.

A personal loan can be obtained through many different places, from banks to private lenders. If you choose to go with a private lender instead of a bank, keep in mind you will probably be paying a higher interest rate. However, if your credit score is low, or if you do not have a pristine credit history, a private lender may be more willing to lend you money, then a bank will be.

It is worth shopping around a little to ensure that you are getting the best interest rates and terms for your situation. Once a personal loan has been repaid, you must apply for additional credit if you want to access more money to do more home renovations.

Personal Line of Credit

An alternative to a personal loan is a personal line of credit. This option is great if you are going to have ongoing or long-term home improvement projects. With a personal line of credit, you can access the funds as you need them and will only be charged interest on the money you have used. This option will enable you to pay your general contractor for a project and then begin paying it off before the next payment is due. A line of credit will allow you to re-borrow the money you have paid back, up to the credit limit without reapplying, in the same way as a credit card. However, a personal line of credit typically has a lower interest rate than a credit card, making it a better option.

Home Equity Line of Credit

A Home Equity Line of Credit is a loan that is structured in a similar way to a personal line of credit, using your home as equity for the loan. Generally, you can access 80% of the equity in your home. The amount of equity is calculated by subtracting your current mortgage liability from the market value of your home. For example, your home has a market value of $800,000, and you currently owe $600,000. This would give you an equity stake of $200,000. You can borrow up to 80% of the value of your home; in this case, that is $640,000. Since you currently owe $600,000, you would be able to borrow the remaining $40,000 in equity.

Like a personal line of credit, you will only be paying interest only on the amount that you take from the line of credit. Unlike a personal line of credit, the interest rates are flexible and can increase your payments. Another thing to be aware of is that if you are not careful, you can overspend and tap out the equity in your home. Doing this will leave you with a large principal amount and interest payments when you are in the repayment period.

Home Equity Loan

A home equity loan is like a home equity line of credit in that the loan is taken out against the equity of your home. The home equity loan is a lump sum equity draw, which will allow you to have a good source of money to put towards your home renovations. One advantage of the home equity loan is that they have a fixed interest rate, which means that the payment will be the same every month, making budgeting easier. Keep in mind that the terms of a home equity loan and line of credit can vary from one lender to another. It is vital that you understand the repayment terms of your loan before you commit to the lender.

Refinance Your Primary Mortgage

Refinancing your mortgage allows you to pay off your current mortgage by securing another mortgage loan. You can borrow as much as 80% of your home’s appraised value, which leaves you money to pay for home improvements. Another advantage of refinancing your home is that you can get a lower interest rate on your mortgage. Much like the home equity line of credit and home equity loan, the amount you can borrow on your home’s refinancing depends on the equity of your home. Unlike the other options, refinancing your home will give you the money for home improvements without incurring a second payment since the loan payment is a part of your mortgage.

Secure A Second Mortgage

A second mortgage is an additional loan with a different mortgage broker that is taken out on a property that is already mortgaged. Like the other options, the amount you can borrow on a second mortgage is based on the equity in your home. Unlike the other options, second mortgage lenders care less about your credit score and income and care more about how much equity is in your home. This is the most significant advantage of taking out a second mortgage, although you must consider if the home renovations you want to do will outweigh the cons that come with the second mortgage.

One of the major cons in choosing to take out a second mortgage is that interest rates are higher than the other options. This is because the second mortgage lender is taking on more risk than the original mortgage provider, as they are in the second position for the property’s title. This means that if the homeowner were to default on their loan and the property is taken into possession; the original mortgage will be paid out first. If there is any money remaining, it will then go to the holder of the second mortgage.

Another con to taking out a second mortgage is that the terms are typically only for a year or two. During this period, you are only paying the interest payments. At the end of the term, you either need to pay back the total of the second mortgage or extend the loan.

Getting a Reverse Mortgage

A reverse mortgage is something available to homeowners who are fifty-five years and older. A reverse mortgage allows you to borrow up to 55% of the current value of your home. Reverse mortgages are often not the right choice for home renovations unless the improvement is absolutely needed to keep the house in liveable condition. You should also consider if it might be a better option to move into another house and sell your home, instead of getting a reverse mortgage.

One advantage of a reverse mortgage is that you do not need to make any regular payments. However, the interest will be added to the loan amount until the loan is completely paid off. You can also pay off the reverse mortgage at any time. Another advantage to a reverse mortgage is that you can choose to take the entire amount in one lump sum, or you can choose to take a chunk of money in the beginning and get regular payments after that.

The disadvantages to a reverse mortgage are that the interest rates tend to be higher than other options. Your estate will have to pay the loan off when you die; in addition, if you choose to sell the home in the future, you will be required to pay off the reverse mortgage.

Financing When You Purchase Your Home

If you are currently in the beginning phases of purchasing a home that you know is going to need renovations before you move in, or right after you move in, you can add the cost onto the mortgage when you set up your initial mortgage. By choosing this, you will pay a lower interest rate than you will with a credit card or a loan.

Things to Consider Before Taking out a Loan for Home Renovations

Many of the loan options you can take out to pay for home renovations may seem similar. It is essential to make sure that you consider all the pros and cons of each of the choices before you commit to one. Often it is a good idea to speak with a financial advisor to help you decide which of the options are best for your situation. Before you apply for a loan to pay for your home renovations, there are several things you should consider. These things include:

– How much money do you need to borrow?

– How much money can you afford to borrow?

– Do you urgently need the money, or is it possible to save up for it?

– How much can you afford to spare for additional loan payments?

– Can you still afford the loan if the interest rates increase?

If you can be honest and realistic in answering these questions, you stand a good chance at securing a loan that is best suited to your situation.

Grant and Rebate Options

If you are doing renovations that will lead to more energy efficiency, you may be eligible for a rebate. There are many options for grants and rebates through Federal, Provincial, and Municipal governments and local utilities. These grants are always changing, so it is good to do some research and find out if any of the rebates are available to you. If you are not sure, your general contractor can help you investigate the available options for grants and rebates.

Sweat Equity

In most cases, the most substantial portion of the cost of any home renovation project is labor costs. One option to get around this is to do the renovations yourself. Instead of hiring a general contractor with a crew of laborers, you can get some friends to help and accomplish the home improvements yourself.

The main disadvantage of choosing to do the renovations is that you will miss out on the technical expertise that comes with hiring a professional. A general contractor is armed with the knowledge that many people just do not have. For example, a general contractor will know if any permits will need to be pulled for your project and the ins and outs of the construction requirements and codes specific to your local area. While there are some home improvements that you can do yourself, such as painting walls, there are some home repairs that you should never do yourself. These repairs include the following:

– Electrical maintenance, including anything related to the circuit breaker

– Major basement renovations, including restoring the floor, or adjusting the height of the foundation

– Any plumbing work, including replacing bathtubs, sinks, and toilets

– Anything that affects the structural integrity of your house, including removing walls or changing windows

– Anything relating to gas appliances, including natural gas heat sources

– Asbestos removal, including opening walls that might have asbestos in them

– Waterproofing your foundation, and any landscaping work that is being done around the foundation of your home

– Replacing your roof, even if you are only replacing a portion of your roof

– Redoing the exterior of your home, including building, or removing decks, fences, and garages

Attempting to do these home repairs yourself will often lead you to spend more money when you discover that you didn’t get something up to code, or find that you can not complete the project yourself and ultimately hire a professional. Eventually how you choose to pay for the home renovations that you have planned comes down to what is best for you and your unique situation. Understanding your options is imperative to make sure that your home renovations can be completed when you are ready for them to be. Use this article as a guide when you plan for home renovations the next time and keep your options open. It’s always better to have everything planned beforehand to avoid getting into financial troubles later on. Whenever you are ready, you can complete our online form, or give us a call at (613) 727-9427 to request your free in-home

Are Home Renovations Necessary?

https://renosgroup.ca/2020/08/">August 21, 2020
By Keith Melanson
In Home Renovation Blog, Renovations

So you just bought a 10-year old residential property for a low price. Is it necessary to do home renovations? One big YES! Who knows what kind of faulty electrical wiring and plumbing issues it has. Renovations are not just for old, outdated homes you just purchased. All existing homeowners should assess the situation of their homes if it needs minor or major boosting.

There are many reasons why you need to do home improvements and not to mention the benefits that come along. If you feel like your home is not safe anymore, or the living situation is uncomfortable, or maybe you need the looks updated, do not wait and just go with your instincts to renovate.

What Could Go Wrong When Renovations Are Not Done or Held off for Too Long?

If renovations are not done immediately, three main concerns will make you scratch your head: more damage, more expenses, and high-risk accidents. Say, for example, you have noticed water stains on your ceilings, this is a sign of a leaky roof. Do you put the renovations on-hold? No! The longer you hold off your renovating plans, the more damage it may cause to the ceiling, and the more expenses will incur in the future.

The worse part is the leaking water on the floor may cause a slip and slide accident to you or a family member. This alone is a good reason not to hold off a renovation. In order for you to get a clearer picture, here are 10 reasons why home renovations are necessary along with the benefits that come with it.

10 Reasons Why Home Renovations are Necessary

#1: Safety: Avoid Accidents

What will it be like living in a house that you don’t feel safe? There are faulty electrical wiring that put you at risk of electrocuted or the possibility of your house burning. Defective flooring may cause cuts, trips, or falls. A broken glass door, window, or furniture may cause cuts and wound, especially with children. How will the whole family feel living in this situation every day? What about guests coming over?

If house damages compromised the residents’ safety and the integrity of the whole house itself, that is the go signal to make major changes. Do not make it a habit to wait for damages to get worse before getting home renovations done. If you do, everyone will be at risk of an accident.

Benefits: The benefit of making renovations as soon as possible is to ensure the family’s safety. This will make you worry less, especially if you have young kids playing around.

#2: Avoid Further Damage and Unnecessary Expenses

For instance, water damage is a common house problem that may cause further damage if not addressed as soon as possible. In Canada and other countries with winter, this is a common problem. The water pipes burst during the winter because they freeze, causing leakage. [1] If there is an undetected water leak, the tendency is your water bill will increase unexpectedly.

Undetected water leakage can damage walls, ceilings, and floors. This will increase the chances of developing mold, mildew, and fungus. Not only will this damage structural property, but this is a health hazard as well.

See how delaying renovations can lead to further damage and additional expenses? Renovations are not just to improve the physical appearance of a home; it also ensures the home functions as it should be inside and out. It does not mean that there is no damage if you can’t see it on the surface.

Benefits: Renovate as soon as possible if you see any alarming damage. In the long run, you can save more money because of the lesser repairs you’ll need. Waiting for more extended periods before responding to a problem leads to one damage after another. Not only will you salvage the degraded portion, but the other parts of the house that can be possibly destroyed as well.

#3: Upgrade Your Home’s Functionality

The second most important thing to a safe household is a functional home. A residence that serves its purpose well, practical, and quality is what you are looking for in a functional household. How do you know if it’s time to upgrade your home’s functionality?

When you feel like there’s not enough space in the kitchen or preparing meals is a mess, that’s not functional, and you’ll be needing a kitchen renovation. When taking showers is not as refreshing as it should be, that’s not a functional bathroom, you’ll be needing a bathroom renovation. Can you keep living like that? Or is it time to renovate?

Real estate experts know that the major selling point in any house is the functional kitchen and bathroom. These are the two portions of the house that we spend the most time, that is why it’s crucial to make some useful upgrades. That’s how important upgrading to a functional home is. Remember, renovations are not for aesthetic purposes alone; the goal is to also add functionality.

Benefits of a Functional Home: A functional home can help you reduce clutter, provide storage, save time with all the mess, and comfort with what you’re doing. Some of these renovations may have high costs, some may be cheaper, but when it comes to the improved quality of life inside your home, it’s always worth it.

#4: Add Value To Your Home

Another good reason to renovate your home is to add monetary value to the property. This is especially helpful for those who want to rent or sell their homes. It is always best to acquire the services of general contractors to make improvements. They can make suggestions on what needs to be improved, and you won’t worry about the quality of their work.

Renovating can enhance the return of investment in a property and is considered a wise financial decision in real estate. Experts say window replacements, wood decks, bathrooms, and kitchen upgrades generate the most added value to the property. [2]

Just remember if you’re renovating for the purpose of renting or selling the property, set a realistic budget, and make sure not to overspend. There are tendencies that homeowners spend overboard with renovations. There are hopes of selling at an escalated property price, but the selling price is not justifiable anymore. Never make this mistake, and ask general contractors what’s best.

Benefits: When a home is newly renovated, you can increase the monthly rental price to compensate for the expenses during home remodeling plus earn more. If you’re in the process of selling a newly renovated house, you won’t have a hard time attracting buyers, and you can always increase the price. A newly renovated house is worth spending for, and people are willing to shed that extra cash.

#5: Comfortable and Enjoyable

Who wouldn’t enjoy a newly renovated house, specially designed for your comfort and enjoyment? Home is the only place to be yourself, be comfortable, and live the way you want. If it’s the other way around, would you still call at home? You don’t need to sacrifice your rest time; it’s because you’re not comfortable with your living situation.

If you’re not quite comfortable and you don’t enjoy your rest and relaxation time at home, maybe it’s time for you to consider renovating. A change in the wall colours can bring a positive impact on your mood. Perhaps the natural lighting coming in is insufficient; that’s why you feel gloomy. It’s time to renovate the window decks or roofing to welcome Mr. Sun. If you’ve been longing for that nook area or cozy patio you’ve been dreaming of, go for it.

The functionality of a home is essential, but comfortable living keeps you sane. If you’re renovating to make your home more comfortable and enjoyable, make sure to add your personal touch. You’re going to spend the money anyway, so why not make sure that you get the best out of your buck?

Benefits of Comfortable and Enjoyable Home: You will notice improvements in your mood when you feel comfortable at your home at last. You will also feel more confident in inviting friends over because you’re proud of the home improvements you had done. This will also benefit people who work from home. Being able to create a home atmosphere to your liking boosts productivity at work.

#6: Improve the Appearance of your Home

If you feel like the odd house in the neighbourhood, and somewhat embarrassed of how your home looks like, it’s time to consider renovating. If you feel embarrassed to invite friends over or celebrate special occasions in your house because of your house’s unpleasant appearance, it’s time to renovate. You wouldn’t want your home to look like a haunted or abandoned house, right?

Let us be clear that the functionality, comfort, and appearance of a home are all different. Functionality and the comfort of a home depend on the person’s preference, while a home’s appearance is a standard. A home may be functional and comfortable, but it may not have that “presentable appearance.”

If you prefer outdated old-looking houses, at least make sure to make it presentable. It doesn’t have to be the standard modern design, because old-school looking houses can be exceptionally charming. Whether you prefer a contemporary design or stick with your existing house design, you can always make renovations to improve your home’s appearance.

Benefits of an Improved Home Appearance: When people say, “you have such a lovely home,” wouldn’t you be flattered? A home with an attractive curb appeal, great-looking interiors, with matching furniture, will get praises. It’s easier for you to welcome guests, organize parties in the house, and easier to sell in the future.

#7: For Expanding Families

When your family is expanding, and your house feels cramped, it makes sense to make some renovations. For example, if the original provisions of your house are just for two bedrooms, and one bath, but you had four beautiful children, wouldn’t you consider renovating? What if you had family and friends coming over? Where will they stay?

Making necessary renovations is essential for expanding families. You can always have additional rooms, turn the living room and kitchen into an open area, or use some of the outdoor space into a living space. There are no limits, and a reputable general contractor in Ottawa can help bring you closer to your desired home.

Plus, if you have kids running around the house, you need to make some home improvements if there are health hazards in the house. Older homes typically have asbestos in several areas, on heat ducts, in drywall plaster, stipple ceilings, etc. Canada’s government discourages the use of asbestos in homes due to its life-threatening effects. [3] Then, lead paint was banned in Canada since 2005 due to health risks affecting the growth and development of children.

Benefits of a Renovated Home for the Family: Renovating a home is important for expanding families so the kids can have their own room for themselves when they grow up. If it’s the other way around, and the kids have all grown-up, you can make renovations and downsize. You can convert their rooms into an entertainment rooms or a greenhouses. It’s also beneficial for families with little kids if their house is updated, so no health hazards are present while in their developing years.

#8: For Mobility Renovations

This may not be an issue for some people, but for households with disabled family members or elderly parents, mobility renovations are a must. There are a limited number of general contractors in Ottawa who offer this service.

You can always have a free consultation to be aware of the necessary renovations best suited for your needs. People on wheelchairs or scooters usually have a limited space to maneuver and are sometimes unsafe. People with disabilities even have a hard time reaching cabinets, storage areas, and counters. Mobility renovations are designed to make their lives easier, even when they’re living alone. These renovations are made safe and cater to different mobility needs.

The goal of mobility renovations is to establish large open space, with a safe and accessible design for handicapped individuals. Homes can be customized with wider doorways, lower countertops, brighter lights, handrails, non-slip floors, and many more. You can always ask for specific designs depending on your needs. Either you’re in a wheelchair or crutches, these renovations are important.

Benefits of Mobility Renovations: Mobility renovations allows a safe, accessible, and wide environment for people who have limited range of motion. Mobility renovations allow safe bathroom time, accessible cooking, and an overall safe environment.

#9: Creating Home Additions

If somehow, you’re not satisfied with your existing living space, or you want an additional room in the house, you will need renovations. Home additions like man caves, gaming rooms, home offices, or playpen can be achieved with affordable improvements. Whatever kind of home addition you think might be helpful to have at home, only you can make it possible.

Benefits of Home Additions: Renovating your house and having home additions helps you to be more efficient with your job. This is especially true when you’re making additions that are work-related and boost productivity. Basement renovations are like an addition in the basement, can include man/woman caves, sound proof studios, extra bathrooms, kitchenettes, bars, etc… will surely make the whole family happy, and guests coming over will love it.

#10: Add Your Personal Touch

Last but not the least, home renovations allow you to add your personal touch to your home. This is your chance to renovate your house into the dream home that you have envisioned. If you bought a pre-owned house but felt like the house “does not scream you,” making minor or major renovations is your answer.

You want those ugly countertops upgraded into granite? You got it! If you wish that earth-toned colours with minimalist concepts you see on Pinterest, you can always have it your way. Whatever way you want it, it must be functional, comfortable, pleasant to the eye, and of course, specified to your liking.

Benefits: Living in a home with your personal touch promotes comfort, boosts positive vibes, and drastically improves your mood. For people who have Obsessive-Compulsive tendencies, you may have storage rooms, pantries or cabinets designed the way you like it. For plant parents, you can make provisions for your indoor plants to have a green and clean home.

Why wait? Renovate Now!

Now you know the 10 reasons why home renovations are necessary, this surely makes you want to do the upgrades you’ve been planning. You wouldn’t land on this page and end up reading this article if you have no prior plans, right?

If money constraints cause the delay, do not worry because there are general contractors that offer affordable renovation costs or financing options. Always make sure to choose professional and experienced contractors in the industry.

In Ottawa, RenosGroup is one of the best in the industry. The family-owned renovation team specializes in catering to client needs. If you have concerns or inquiries about home renovations, RenosGroup is happy to answer all your concerns. Choose the best, and experience the best!

Home Renovations You Can Do Yourself on a Budget

https://renosgroup.ca/2020/08/">August 19, 2020
By Keith Melanson
In Home Renovation Blog, Renovations

Okay, homeowners, have you ever thought your house could do with some renovation but are too afraid to get started on it because you think it’s beyond your financial means? Well, not all home renovations require substantial financial input.

In fact, most people confuse renovations with high-budget remodeling, but home renovations are far from the redesigning ideas that home remodeling is. Renovations can be large-scale or small fixes to restore a property to functional repair.

Home renovations are an essential part of maintenance because many things can go wrong with housing properties, from design and construction errors to wear and tear damage. Renovation helps address these issues, making the home safe for its occupants. And not all renovation ideas need you to take a loan to finance them.

For example, here are common functional and cosmetic issues in a house that can be fixed on a budget on your own or with a little input from our general contractors in case you want to meet specific building codes.

Fix up your kitchen

Does your once-lovely kitchen now spot tired back-splash, worktop, tiles, and old cabinet doors? Then it’s the right time to give it a makeover. Here are the renovation ideas for your kitchen.

Replace the countertop

Not all worktops are created equal -or are priced the same, but for low-budget installation, you will never go wrong with laminate or faux marble. Faux wood is a great choice too, it is a classic design that won’t get out of fashion for ages. These are low-budget countertops that are varnished just like their premium counterparts like quartz and granite

While a custom countertop design will cost you thousands of dollars to buy and install, a simple low-budget countertop, won’t cost more than $1000. It is probably not going to boost your house’s value but will do wonders for your kitchen in the short term.

Reface or refinish your cabinets

If kitchen cabinets could talk, they could tell you all about the sauce splatters, spills, and scratches they get from heavy kitchen operations. Kitchen cabinets take a lot while required to remain beautiful. It’s no wonder they always look so worn out beyond their ages.

If your kitchen cabinet is chipped, broken, or just appears outdated, a quality refinishing or resurfacing can restore it to proper repair and extend its life.

Laminate your kitchen cabinets or apply a fresh lick of paint or stain to give them a new look, but if the doors are too old and are starting to make noises when opening, then consider refacing them. Refacing means getting new doors for your kitchen cabinets.

Probably order one drawer and door first to see if they work before paying for the whole set.

Build shelves

It’s not hard to build shelves; there are clear instructions on YouTube DIY videos you can follow to fit shelves in the style and size you prefer. There’s nothing as too much storage space; especially as your family grows, you need suitable cabinets and shelves to keep your home organized. DIY shelve designs have the advantage of having the functionality and look you desire.

Professional custom design shelves and cabinet prices range from hundreds to thousands of dollars. The cost of labor accounts for a significant percentage of this amount. If you choose DIY, you can reduce the overall cost significantly.

Replace the sink

So, your old kitchen sink is misbehaving one repair after another? You can get nice sinks under $100 and replace the old one. There are easy-to-follow video guides you can use to get the job done.

You can get some great stainless steel or acrylic sinks at low prices. It’s not going to boost your home’s value, but it’s going to freshen up your kitchen in the short-term. Ever wonder if you can install an undermount sink with a laminate countertop, click here to learn more

Kitchen lighting

One type of lighting you can install on your own is track lighting. Track lighting goes on the surface of the wall or ceiling, unlike ‘pot’ and recessed ‘can’ lights. Track lighting is a versatile solution for both task and ambient lighting. For track light fixtures, you have many options, including spotlights, floods, and pendants, and you can adjust the lighting experience as you please.

A kitchen chandelier or a bright colored table lamp will also work just fine for a cost far cheaper than track lighting. These can also change the look of the room and warm it up quite well.

Consider adding lighting under kitchen cabinets too for a clearer sight and brighter view. Under-cabinet lighting is easy to do on your own. Just get affordable types that you can plug into wall outlets and attach under the kitchen cabinet instead of one that requires you to mess around with your kitchen’s electrical wiring.

Kitchen backsplash

A backsplash protects your walls from splashes. It is a wise idea to fit a backsplash in your kitchen if you don’t want the extra job of wiping stains and grease off your lovely paintwork. You can also use backsplash to give your kitchen a new look with just a bright selection of tiles.

Use a glass panel for a contemporary look. You can get some adhesive backsplash panels that fit easily for a glossy, shiny look. Stainless steel backsplash is another great choice because of its practicality. Another great choice is acrylic, with incredible color patterns to choose from and ultra-hygienic, durable backsplash. Subway tiles work fine too.

Another cost-effective measure is to fit the backsplash only where it provides maximum protection, usually near the sink.

Update or fix up damaged floors

There are various peel-and-stick flooring designs you can choose from and give your floor an upgrade without the need to pull out existing flooring.

Fix broken and loose tiles

All floors, even the premium superior, could do with some fixing after years of service. Consider fixing those loose tiles and switching out broken ones for brand new tiles.

Re-sealing with a suitable product

Sand dragged in the house by way of feet also eats away at the floor surface, making it lose its original shine. Another reason your floor gets a grimy-look is when mopping water, carrying soil with it settles into the grout. Washing with robust cleaning solutions and re-sealing with a suitable product will restore your floor to shine.

Fix installation errors

Another reason to fix your floor is to deal with the mishaps of previous installations. Building and construction errors can result in tenting where tiles start coming up on their own, sloping or uneven floors, etc. Worry not, though; you can get the services of professionals to fix your floors

Renosgroup provides extensive flooring restoration services on all floors, including vinyl, wooden, and ceramic.

Do up or replace your front door

A few things in your home are as aesthetically important as the front door. It is where your guests come into your house and therefore deserve an occasional fresh coat of paint to protect it from harsh weather elements. Your front door also helps keep the house warm and cozy. Therefore, for home renovation on a budget, consider the following:

A fresh lick of paint

A fresh lick of paint is going to do wonders for your front door, together with fresh paint on the exterior, this is going to raise your home’s aesthetic appeal. Start by applying the undercoat.

Paint cautiously in multiple layers starting with a thin primer, sand it smooth, then apply another layer of coat, clean and repeat for a mirror-finish. Leave a 24-hour gap between coats and use a clog-resistant sanding sponge to smoothen the coat. Once the undercoat looks satisfactory, apply the glossy finish to highlight your door’s best features.

Replace hardware parts

You can also renovate your doors with brand new hardware, including handles, letterboxes, and house numbers attached to your door.

Just ensure that any hardware replacements completely cover the marks left by past fixing jobs. Get a latch, handle, and letterbox that is somewhat larger than you had before.

Interior and Exterior painting and decorations

A fresh coat of paint on your walls with the most recent colour trends will raise the aesthetic appeal of your home. For brick houses, you will never go wrong with rendered exterior walls.

Rendered exterior walls

Just start by taking care of cracks, flaky paint, mold, redundant screws, neglected waterways, and any other defects that are likely to interfere with your paint job. Keep all tools you will need on-site together in one place and pets and kids away. When painting, start at the top of the wall, working your way down with confident brush strokes. In case of doubt, consider hiring a professional to give your walls a blitz.

Removable wallpaper

If you don’t like how your rooms look, how about fixing that with some removable wallpapers. Wallpapers add a pop of color, texture, and accent onto your walls while helping cover up botched paint jobs!

Create an open space floor plan

If you feel like you are living in too many rooms with traffic problems and insufficient fresh air and sunlight you could do with tearing down extra walls to create open space floors.

Demolition is an integral part of home renovations. It’s one of those low-budget renovation projects that, if done right, can help achieve an open floor plan of your dreams without blowing holes through your financial pockets. You can add space in your home or get more light by bringing that living room wall down.

Open Living: What is it?

Open living is the newest trend in architectural designs. The traditional living style where you get a kitchen, dining, and living in separate niche rooms is being faced out in favor of an all in one design where one room serves all purposes.

An open floor plan is how people are choosing to live now. Bringing down those walls between separate rooms is the way to go. You can increase space without messing with a home’s footprint.

Tips for Open Living

Make a plan for art and furniture that hangs on the wall before beginning the project. You don’t want to discover there’s nowhere to put your old piano after renovation.

For cohesiveness, use uniform flooring throughout. Go with light colors to enhance the natural light in your house. Exploit those scenic views by orienting your doors and windows into the yard or pool. One of the biggest trends in millwork design is connecting kitchens and living rooms with the outside using collapsible exterior double doors; that way, you can create a relaxed atmosphere in your house.

Check if your city requires an interior demolition permit. Most building permits also give you the freedom to complete interior demolition, but some cities require special interior demolition permits. In case of lead and asbestos paint, you are going to need additional permits too.

Watch out for your HVAC system. Consider getting specialists to relocate vents and ducts and upgrade your heating and cooling system if necessary.

Use windowless ways to enhance natural illumination in the house.

Do you wish to increase natural illumination in your house? You don’t have to replace your solid exterior doors with garden doors or make large holes on the walls for light to pass through. There are windowless ways to increase the amount of natural light in your house. These include:

Light tubes

You can use a light tube to direct light from the rafter into your living room. Light tubes are especially handy if you don’t have a single-story roof for use with skylights. These are clever, twisty, reflective designs that can reach 30 feet from the rafter to the ceiling.

Another advantage of solar tubes is that no major remodeling of structure or paint is needed. They achieve the same illumination as three 100-watt bulbs, plus they are eco-friendly to boot!

Use bright, reflective colors and paint

Even a dark room, with large windows, is going to appear dreary and dull compared to a room with reflective white, light tan, or light grey surfaces.

It is simple logic; dark colors absorb more light and reflect less while light colors behave like mirrors, allowing light to bounce around the house.

Use light colors in your interior walls, and while at it, make the walls a few shades darker than the ceiling for a taller, larger, brighter interior space.

Add semi-gloss or shinier, satin paint to enhance the reflective surfaces.

Consider painting or covering overhangs

So, overhangs provide weather protection when conditions turn horrible, but they could also be why you are getting less sunlight. To enhance natural illumination in every room, consider painting or covering the overhangs or eaves. A white paint around the overhang or covering with maintenance-free white vinyl or aluminum will do the trick.

Switch out dense draperies for light, airy ones

The days of dense draperies on windows are long gone, light window treatments are in fashion now. Most people work from home now; they serve as offices. So, if you are going to be spending a lot of time indoors, make it illuminated and airy to boot.

Switch out those Roman shades for sheer, fun, single-panel draperies that you can pull back for a breathtaking view of the outdoors.

Alternatively, why not go for blinds. This interior design technological marvel allows the controlling of the amount of light into the home easily.

Trim tree branches that block light

Home renovations are never complete without a bit of landscaping to add the wow factor, and it also helps to remove branches blocking doors or windows so more natural light can get through.

Fix your basement

Basements are always the neglected spaces in most homes, filled with old furniture and boxes stuffed with childhood memorabilia. But do you know that your basement could be a fantastic living space if finished, right?

Fix foundation cracks

If your basement is slightly more humid than the rest of the house, then possibly, air, slipping through cracks on the foundation, has to do with it. It can lead to massive energy bills as the house gets colder than usual. Water may also sip through and wreak havoc on the basement floor and your valuables. Get the help of Renosgroup’s basement renovators to fix foundation cracks in your basement to meet local area building codes.

Bring in natural lighting.

You can use a solar tube to direct light from roof rafters and illuminate your basement. Another way to increase natural light is to adopt an open floor plan, too many walls block light from reaching the basement. Don’t forget about mirrors too, they do wonders, letting light bounce throughout the space.

For further ideas on how to make your basement spacious, comfortable, and cozy on a budget, get in touch with renosgroup to see what we can do for you.

There you go….. home renovations are fun and an exciting way to restore your property to good condition. Just remember to start by cleaning up first, a renovation is easier to visualize and do when the space is clean and free of clutter. For help with your home renovations and other remodeling ideas in Ottawa, get in touch with renosgroup or give us a call at (613)727-9427 We specialize in top quality home renovations, including bathroom renovations, kitchen renovations, basement renovations, and home additions.

5 Benefits That a New Renovation Can Bring

https://renosgroup.ca/2020/08/">August 15, 2020
By Keith Melanson
In Renovations

There are many different reasons why homeowners choose to take on home renovations. If you’re considering a reno project this season but are wondering if it’s really worth it, here are some benefits that a new renovation can bring to you and your home.

Can Boost the Value of Your Home

Whether you perform a few superficial facelifts or an entire upgrade, renovating your home can dramatically boost the value of your property. Modernizing key areas like the kitchen, bathroom, and exterior can often come with a significant ROI if you plan to sell in the future since buyers today want a turnkey property that’s newly redone.

Improve Energy Efficiency

One significant benefit that a new renovation can bring – one that often gets overshadowed – is improving your home’s energy efficiency. By swapping out old, power-sucking appliances for modern, ENERGYSTAR® ones, you can not only reduce the amount of energy used throughout your home, but you can also save on your utility bills each month.

Personalize It for You

If there’s a certain feature or area that you’ve dreaded in your home because it just doesn’t suit your lifestyle or needs, you can finally create something that truly works for you. Whether it’s changing up the décor, creating an open concept layout for better flow or replacing the windows to increase the natural light in your home, you can create a customized and cohesive design that functions as you want it to.

Maximize Your Space

Over time, as life gets busy, our homes can start to look and feel dated, cramped and even uncomfortable. Having a few renovations done can breathe new life back into your interior while also maximizing the space that you have. And there are many different options available today that can help you enhance your living room, bedroom, and more by changing up even just a few simple key areas.

Avoid the Headache of Moving

If your family is growing and you need more room to accommodate, enduring the headache of moving doesn’t have to be your only option. With a little imagination and the right reno team behind you, you can recreate your space and even add on an additional room if need be. When you love the neighbourhood and home that you’re in, you could save hundreds of thousands of dollars by simply creating the space you need in your current home.

When you want to renovate your home, give the Renosgroup.ca a call. We’ve been helping homeowners throughout Ottawa transform there home for decades, and we can help you too. Get in touch today, or give us a call at (613)727-9427