Remodel VS. Renovation: There’s a Difference?

Remodel VS. Renovation:

There’s a Difference?

Maybe you’ve never given this topic much thought and you just stumbled on this blog post. Or maybe this settles some long-standing debate between friends.

Whatever the reason, we’re glad you’re here! As a current or future homeowner, knowing the difference between remodel and renovation is a game-changer.

Even though they’re frequently used interchangeably, knowing the difference between the two will ensure that you’re verbalizing your needs to your contractor with crystal clarity.

Not to mention the fact that when it comes to buying or selling, a “newly renovated” home is very different than a “newly remodeled” home.

 

What’s In a Word?

The definition of renovation is to restore to a state of good repair. This is typically done to the existing structure because of the integrity of the home or to address safety concerns. But, these projects can also be done for cosmetic reasons to update your space.

Examples of a home renovation include fixing issues such as:

A Kitchen with outdated or damaged flooring
A cracked or sagging foundation
A Bathroom with rusted pipes

Home remodeling is changing the structure or form of your home. This has more to do with rearranging the layout for want-based reasons rather than need-based.

Examples of a home remodel include projects like:

Creating an open-concept layout
Removing a bathtub shower combination and installing a walk-in shower in a different location
Updating a kitchen to make clever storage solutions or to provide better functionality

 

Home Renovation Costs

Costs for renovations vary by room but also the size of the project. A kitchen renovation, for example, can cost between $500 for minor updates and $5000 for more in-depth changes. Renovations will almost always cost less than remodels since the actual structure is staying the same. Home Remodel Costs This is where you’ll need to have a bigger budget. A kitchen remodel can cost closer to $20,000 or more and may need permits due to changes in the structure of your home. A good rule of thumb is to pad your budget by at least 10% to allow for any surprises.

 

Renovation or Remodel: Where To Start

As a homeowner, it’s good to focus first on projects that will get you the most growth in equity. Kitchen remodels, room additions or even adding a deck are some types of projects that will get you a good return on your investment when you’re ready to sell.

At the end of the day, it’s your home and where you should be the most comfortable. Always make the changes that make your life easier. It doesn’t always have to be about a return on your investment. Peace of mind is pretty great too!

 

Home Renovation on a Budget

If you’re working with a smaller budget, you may be able to bypass hiring a contractor. If you focus on smaller, DIY-able projects, you can save money that you can use later for bigger budget projects.

Take a weekend to knock out wall patching, painting or, laying new flooring. You’ll feel accomplished and breathe a little easier down the road.

 

Starting the Process

Renovations and remodels can be daunting and knowing where to start and plan for possible issues can be overwhelming. Feel free to give us a call (309) 738-9108 or send us a message for a free quote, we’d love to help in any way we can!