Top Home Improvement Myths

Myth (noun): a widely held but false belief or idea.

Myths exist in every industry, and home improvement is no exception. Here is one fact: interest and investment in home improvement remain strong. Whole-room remodels like kitchens and baths continue to lead the way, with bathrooms among the most popular projects.

Whether you are staining your front door yourself or hiring a contractor for the basement suite you have long dreamed of, it helps to separate fact from myth so you can set the right expectations.

Myth 1: Every Remodel Adds Resale Value

Most homeowners remodel to improve their quality of life, enjoying a renovated kitchen, bath or addition every day. Remodeling rarely lowers a home's value, but expecting to recoup the full cost, or more, when you sell can lead to disappointment.

Remodeling magazine's annual Cost vs. Value report compares project costs with resale value. Midrange kitchen and bath remodels, decks and siding replacement typically recoup more of their cost than room additions or upscale renovations, but few projects pay for themselves entirely at resale.

• If you plan to stay for years, do the project you will enjoy.
• If you plan to sell soon, set realistic expectations.
• Overly trendy finishes can make a home harder to sell.
• A pool is great if your family will love it, but it can narrow your pool of buyers.

Myth 2: All Contractors Are the Same

Sticking to your budget matters, but never choose a contractor on price alone. If one bid is far lower than the rest, there is usually a reason. You do not want someone who cuts corners, leaves items out of the budget or cannot finish when something unexpected happens.

• Get recommendations from people you trust, and talk to more than one.
• Verify insurance and ask for references.
• Meet in person and look for professionalism, knowledge and clear communication.
• Be wary of anyone who promises a project can never go over time or budget.

We work hard to stay on time and on budget, but surprises happen, like an old hidden leak that damaged the subfloor or a countertop that ships late. An experienced design-build team has seen it all and will often suggest improvements you will wonder how you lived without. Read how to find the right contractor.

Myth 3: DIY Always Saves Money

A how-to video may be all you need to sand and stain a front door, even if it takes longer than the video suggests. But bigger projects are a different story.

• Specialized tools can cost more than they are worth for a single project.
• Your neighbor's impressive man cave may have had more expert help than he admits.
• Mistakes can cost far more to fix than hiring a pro from the start.

A good rule of thumb: if you have never done the task or have any hesitation, call in the pros. We could fill a long list with projects that started as DIY and ended up in our hands.

Let's Talk About Your Project

Considering a home improvement or remodeling project? Call Tracy Tesmer Design and Remodeling at 678-450-1700 or contact us online.