Month: May 2020

The kitchen is the heart of the home. It’s where you gather with family, entertain friends and in general, make memories. As such, it should exude comfort. If your current condo kitchen is outdated and not your favorite place in your home, it may be time for a remodel. If you’re considering remodeling your condo kitchen, here are five questions you should ask yourself before getting started. 

1) What are my goals? 

Before taking a sledgehammer to your dated countertops, you should first ask yourself what you would like to accomplish with your kitchen remodel. Ask yourself if you’re looking to update the look of your kitchen, make it more functional and/or add more storage. Are you looking to turn your kitchen into a chef’s paradise, make it a place to entertain or add space so your kids can do their homework? Keep in mind that the more goals you have for your kitchen, the higher the price tag may be. It’s important to ask yourself if you’re willing to splurge to make your kitchen into your new favorite room in your condo. 

2) What’s my budget? 

Now that you have an idea for what your goals are for your new condo kitchen, you can set a budget. Setting a budget will help you stay on track and keep things realistic. If you’re planning on hiring a contractor, be sure to share your budget with them so you both are on the same page. 

3) Do I want to keep this layout? 

Keep in mind that if you do decide to move major plumbing fixtures like the sink, this will add extra costs potentially raising your budget. However, if you have big dreams and your budget is up for the task, changing your layout can be the perfect way to finally add that breakfast nook you’ve always wanted or near endless amount of counter space. 

While considering changing your layout, you should also consider the lighting of your kitchen and how it could be improved. Would you like to add more natural light, utilize the natural light you have most effectively and/or get rid of dated light fixtures that won’t do your new space any justice? Thinking of your lighting during when deciding if you’d like to change the layout of your kitchen will aid you in making this critical decision. 

4) How much storage do I want and need? 

A lot of homeowners decide to remodel their kitchens due to a lack of storage. When you’re remodeling your condo kitchen, think of what storage needs and how a remodel can solve these problems. Are you in need of a bigger pantry, a double-door fridge/freezer or even a wine cooler? Considering these options first will ensure the end result you desire.

5) Do I need professional help? 

Remodeling a condo kitchen is not a simple task by any means. Before you decide to make this project a DIY, ask yourself if you’re going to need professional help. For large projects like a kitchen remodel, it’s definitely recommended. A contractor can help you with construction, design, architecture, permitting, working with your homeowners’ association and more. In Florida, you’re required to obtain a building permit before renovating your condo kitchen because condominiums are considered a multi-family, a homeowner is not allowed to obtain an owner-builder permit. A contractor knows these requirements and regulations and can take the stress of them out of your hands. You’ll quickly see the ROI when the project is in a trusted professional’s hands and you’re left with your dream condo kitchen without all the stress of managing the remodel yourself.

If you’re in the Southwest Florida area and are eager to begin your condo kitchen remodeling project, contact Varian Construction at (239) 514-0103. Varian Construction is a 30-year-old, owner-operated company that takes pride in their projects all while alleviating the stress on the homeowner. They go above and beyond the call of duty for your remodeling project.

Having spent more time in our homes that ever before, you may have noticed your bathroom is in need of a refresh. However, if you’re not in the market to spend tons of money on the project, there are creative ways to get the project done on a budget. If this is your case, here are five bathroom remodeling ideas that won’t break the bank. 

1) Limit your tile

Tile can get expensive. If you’re looking to save money on your bathroom remodel, limit the amount of tile you use and concentrate on using it in areas that are a necessity, such as high-impact areas like the floor. In your shower, the tile will need to go to at least the showerhead. To avoid using floor-to-ceiling tile in the shower, you can save by tiling to the showerhead and then painting the rest.

If you have expensive tastes, consider using artistic and expensive tile only as an accent. They will stand out against the rest of your bathroom and save you money by utilizing a less-expensive tile on the majority of the area. 

2) Get smart with your countertops 

Lots of homeowners are splurging on granite countertops. Because the sheer amount you’ll need in your bathroom is much smaller than in your kitchen, while you’re not spending as much here there’s still an opportunity to save money. 

Take a look at the most popular colors of granite countertops. Neutral colors like tan, brown and white are being used by most homeowners during remodels. You can instead opt for colors that aren’t used as frequently to save money and make your bathroom stand from the crowd.

Additionally, most countertop fabricators have remnants from larger projects that are the ideal size for bathroom countertops and are much more affordable. You can look into this option to save money and recycle at the same time.

3) Try a new paint color

A budget-friendly way to give your bathroom a new look is to give it a fresh coat of paint. However, if you’re going to take on this project, it may be best to enlist the help of a professional. This project will take a lot of time, patience and painters’ tape due to the smaller space of most bathrooms. There are nooks, crannies, bathtubs, windows, mirrors, tiles and more to avoid. Although you’ll save money on the paint, trust us when we say you may want to hire a professional for this one!

4) Fight the urge to move major plumbing fixtures

You can save lots of money by leaving the toilet and tub/shower right where they are. If their current locations fit your needs, there’s no need to move them! Moving these plumbing fixtures will drive up the cost of any bathroom remodeling project. 

5) Go green 

If you’re looking for bathroom remodeling ideas, consider going green with your choices. Adding new appliances like low-flow toilets, sinks and showerheads will not only help you conserve water, but they’ll save you money month to month on your energy and water bills.

All in all, remodeling your bathroom on a budget is a great way to give your home a refresh. Additionally, it can benefit you in the long run, as renovating your home’s bathroom is a proven way to increase your ROI should you choose to sell down the road.

If you’re in the Southwest Florida area and are eager to begin your bathroom remodeling project, contact Varian Construction at (239) 514-0103. Varian Construction is a 30-year-old, owner-operated company that takes pride in their projects all while alleviating the stress on the homeowner. They go above and beyond the call of duty for your bathroom remodeling project.