Settling into a new home can be difficult, but you can make that transition easier by updating the space to make it more your own. There are many renovations to consider before moving into a new place.
Hiring a reliable contractor can make the experience a positive one overall. At the bottom of this article, we'll go over some effective tips for finding a contractor in a new community in Connecticut.
New Exterior Door
The front door is the focal point of your new home's facade. It calls attention to visitors and shows off your personal style. You're probably already planning to replace the lock on your door. If so, this is the perfect opportunity to go the extra mile and install an all new door.
- Choose the right material. Wood, steel, and fiberglass are the most common materials used for front doors. Each one has pros and cons. Consider your priorities as you choose a material. Each one performs differently and requires different levels of maintenance. Know the durability, longevity, and energy efficiency of each material before making a selection.
- Consider the architectural style. Install a door that looks like it belongs in your home.
- Buy a high-quality door. A high quality front door will last for decades, keeping your home secure and contributing to energy efficiency. Work with a contractor that can direct you to a supplier that sells products by manufacturers with an excellent reputation and warranty.
Interior or Exterior Painting
Nothing makes your house look new and well-maintained quite like a fresh coat of paint. New interior paint helps personalize your space, while exterior painting can increase the value of your home and give your space an all-new look.
Some tips:
- Hire a professional. It's common for homeowners to do their own painting when they move into a new house - especially when they're painting the interior. Hiring a professional to do the work for you gives you more time to focus on the other aspects of your relocation.
- Coordinate colors with furnishings - new and old. If you're planning to buy new furniture for your new home, keep your new wall colors in mind as you're shopping around. Take paint swatches to the furniture store if needed to make the best selection. Paint large samples on the walls to see what the color looks like when the paint dries.
Flooring Upgrade
Old flooring can date your home and leave you feeling frustrated before you even move into your house. Before the boxes and furniture arrive, replace out-of-date flooring with a timeless material like hardwood.
- Do your research. Hardwood flooring comes in many species, and can be finished in many colors. Oak is the most popular wood species because of its durability, but other species of wood have different grain patterns and characteristics. Do your research to choose a hardwood flooring and finish that you'll be happy with for years to come.
- Combine with luxury vinyl tile. Consider a waterproof hardwood look-alike material, like luxury vinyl tile, in the bathroom.
Update the Closets
Older homes - especially historic homes - tend to have small closets that can be difficult to organize. Make your life easier by working with a contractor to install a closet organization system in the bedrooms. You might also consider installing a pantry in the kitchen, if your new home lacks a pantry when you purchase.
Installing modular, organized storage space in your home makes those first weeks when you're unpacking your belongings much easier. Having a space for everything is important for getting settled.
Turn the Spare Room Into a Home Office
If you work from home, you're probably aware that spare rooms can make poor home office spaces, especially if the spare room lacks features like adequate power outlets. Before you start work again, take the time to turn your spare room into a home office where you can work comfortably and productively.
Work with a contractor to create a space that has adequate lighting, plenty of power outlets and USB outlets, and a good window to look out of. Consider installing a built-in desk or shelves for storing your important work items.
How To Find A Contractor When You're New To the Area
Finding a contractor when you're new to the area can be a challenge. While many people turn to trusted neighbors or friends for contractor referrals, that may not be possible when you're new to the area. Below, we've listed some organizations that can help you on the search for a new contractor.
Local Home Builders Association
Reputable contractors tend to join organizations like home builder associations. These organizations keep records of members and will provide membership lists online. Keep in mind that it's still important to vet a contractor that you find through these organizations. Meet with multiple potential contractors and call references before making your decision.
Building Department
Local building departments will be familiar with contractors in the area and may have positive things to say when you ask about specific contractors you're thinking about hiring. Give your building department a call when you're getting close to hiring a specific contractor.
Material Suppliers
If you live in a rural area, sometimes finding a contractor that will come to your home can be difficult. Local material suppliers may know contractors who do business where you live and can give you names and numbers of customers they work with. Again, it's still important to check out these contractors before signing a contract.
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