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Tag: kitchen

Kitchen Renovation Dos and Don’ts: Expert Advice

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When renovating your kitchen to achieve the look you have always dreamed of, there are many things to consider to ensure the final result is perfect. From choosing the correct fittings to ensuring that the kitchen cabinets match the hardware you choose, many decisions will need to be made.

At the same time, there are also many potential pitfalls, as we can often become blindsided by unexpected costs or structural issues that suddenly emerge once we start removing parts of the old kitchen. So today, we will examine the most important things to consider when renovating. Enjoy!

Do Plan Ahead

It is easy to be tempted to purchase that kitchen sink you have fallen in love with, but we highly recommend that you hold off on purchasing any expensive items until you have completed a budget for all the expenses, from materials to potential contractors.

Not everyone loves planning, but it can be the most important factor when it comes to getting your dream kitchen. It can help ensure that you pick and choose the right elements that not only go well together but also fit your budget and space requirements.

After all, what good is that kitchen sink if you can not find a kitchen counter that matches it properly? Or what if you suddenly run out of money halfway through and are left for months with a messy kitchen that only partly works until you save enough money for the plumber to connect everything?

If you need help planning your kitchen layout, picking the right elements, or hiring professional contractors to install your fittings, consider contacting us at The HandyForce. We are always available for a consultation to discuss your options.

Do Not Ignore Quality Products

While not everyone will be buying the most expensive products for their kitchen, there is something to be said when choosing quality products compared to the cheapest versions.

Most of us use our kitchen multiple times every single day, and as such, it is important that every functional element can withstand wear and tear, and will stay in working order for years to come.

Quality products often have a longer lifespan and a better feel, but sometimes, you can make do with the cheaper versions as well. So do your research to find out where you can save some money and where to spend a little more.

Do Not Forget Lighting

It is fun to pick out the kitchen cabinets and appliances, but we often forget about lighting fixtures. This is a big mistake, as a kitchen that is not well lit will feel depressing, and in some cases, it might even lead to an unfortunate accident.

We recommend that you set aside some money in your planning stage for lighting fixtures, and spend some time considering your options. If you have plenty of natural lighting coming in your kitchen you can do without as many lights, but in other cases you might need to ensure the entire kitchen can be fully lit.

Do Focus On Storage

What good is a kitchen if it can not comfortably hold all your utensils, pots and pans, and other bits and pieces you have collected over the years? Consider the amount of storage in your current kitchen and any items you might be storing elsewhere in your home that would fit better in the kitchen cabinets.

A good rule of thumb is that you should have at least one or two cabinets available for any future purchases or gifts coming your way. This way, you can avoid throwing out that one piece you use on rare occasions to make room for something else.

The Advantages of Modern Kitchen Renovations

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Many Canadians only choose to renovate their kitchens when their existing design has gone out of style or begins to look worn. However, the benefits of modern kitchen renovations extend far beyond aesthetics. From enhanced functionality that caters to your lifestyle to increased energy efficiency that contributes to sustainability, a well-planned kitchen renovation offers a myriad of advantages.

Today we will explore the many different benefits of modernizing your kitchen space. Beyond achieving a stylish and contemporary look, you can expect improved organization, optimized storage solutions, sustainable materials, and possibly even the integration of smart technologies that streamline daily tasks. Enjoy!

Functional Design for Your Lifestyle

While design trends can play a big role in choosing your next kitchen, you should not only base your renovation on the latest fashion. Instead, we recommend that you try creating a space that aligns seamlessly with your lifestyle.

Whether you are a busy professional, a home cook, or a family with young children, a well-thought-out kitchen design can enhance your daily routines and make life easier for you. Imagine a layout that optimizes the flow between cooking, prep, and cleanup areas, saving you time and effort.

With customizable features like pull-out pantry shelves, deep drawers for pots and pans, and integrated cutting boards, your kitchen becomes a space that adapts to your specific needs.  And by planning ahead and finding inspiration, such as ergonomic countertop heights or strategically placed outlets for appliances, every detail can be tailored to make your kitchen work for you.

Cooking and Entertaining Experience

Modern kitchen renovations can also help elevate the culinary and social experience of your home significantly. Choosing a spacious, open-concept kitchen encourages interaction with guests or family members while you cook, creating a more engaging atmosphere during gatherings. Imagine having a kitchen island with a built-in cooktop and seating, allowing you to prepare meals while chatting with friends or helping your children with their homework.

Incorporating the latest gadgets and appliances can also enhance your cooking prowess, making experimentation and gourmet meals a breeze. For instance, many Canadian homeowners opt for a boiling water tap to make a cup of tea or coffee near instantaneous, while others choose smart refrigerators with built-in touchscreens that can provide recipe suggestions based on the ingredients you have.

Long-Term Cost Savings

It is also important to remember, that while the initial investment in a modern kitchen renovation might seem significant, the long-term cost savings can be substantial when done right. By choosing energy-efficient appliances, LED lighting, and well-insulated windows and doors, you can achieve reduced utility bills due to them using less power, and getting the work done more quickly.

Opting for durable materials and quality craftsmanship can also minimize the need for frequent repairs and replacements, saving you money over time, as you will not have to replace your items as often. And of course, environmentally friendly and sustainable features like water-saving faucets and energy-efficient dishwashers can contribute to a greener lifestyle while keeping your operating costs lower still.

Personalization and Design Flexibility

By following the above tips, your kitchen can become a reflection of your personal style, and a modern renovation provides the perfect canvas for expressing yourself. Whether you are drawn to sleek, minimalist designs or rustic, farmhouse aesthetics, modern kitchens can be customized to align with your preferences and needs.

From choosing the color palette to selecting cabinet finishes, countertop materials, and backsplash tiles, every element can be tailored to create a space that resonates with you. At The HandyForce, we believe that flexibility of modern kitchen designs allows you to strike the balance between functionality and aesthetics, ensuring that your kitchen becomes a space you love spending time in and showing off to others. Let us help you achieve your dream kitchen today!

What Are the Things to Consider Prior to Kitchen Renovation?

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Renovating your kitchen is such a large project you must get it properly the first time. A new kitchen renovation can become one of the most major projects you will ever embark on for your house if it is completed successfully.

The renovation process can be intimidating for individuals who have never renovated a kitchen earlier. While researching information, finding ideas online, and examining samples at your local store might be entertaining, it’s essential to consider the wider picture.

Here are some of the seven things to consider before kitchen renovation.

7 Things to Consider Before Your Kitchen Renovation

Get a professional

Kitchen designers that work professionally will spend time learning about you and your aesthetic preferences so that they can realize the mental picture you have of your dream kitchen and make it a reality. Therefore, you should find professional kitchen renovators to help you with modern and contemporary kitchen designs.

Consider your budget

Establishing a spending limit before beginning work on your kitchen remodel is the most effective way to reduce the risk of inadvertently depleting your financial reserves to pay for the project. Determine the budget you want to stick to and the amount of leeway you have in case you go over. On top of that, you have the opportunity to work toward reducing the cost of the renovation job.

Timelines

In addition to a stringent budget, be careful to define a deadline for the project. Consider how long you can truly survive with only a makeshift kitchen available to you. Do you need completion of the renovations in five weeks? Or are you able to stretch it out to eight instead?

Suppose you want to avoid scrambling to rearrange plans at the eleventh hour due to the extensive amount of planning that goes into renovating a kitchen. In that case, you should ensure that your remodel is meticulously choreographed.

Permits required

You need to remember that the permits required by the city government vary depending on the modification being performed. If you do not have these, you will have difficulty selling or refinancing your property since potential buyers and lenders want to verify that your home’s modifications follow the relevant building laws and regulations.

Storage

Decide about where you are going to keep everything in the kitchen. It is possible that in addition to purchasing brand new home appliances and cooking utensils, the majority of what you now own will be retained in the kitchen. Determine how much space you need for storage, and then look into innovative storage solutions to get some extra ideas.

Lighting

Think about utilizing a variety of lighting schemes in your cooking space if you don’t want it to be too dim. You will need, at the very least ambient lighting, which provides general brightness, as well as task lighting, which allows you to concentrate on a variety of different cooking chores.

Layout functionality

What will your kitchen look like if all the cabinets and gadgets are used at once? Will open the refrigerator door hinder access to the oven? Consider the redesign’s layout before approving the floor plan. If you are considering adding a kitchen island, ensure sufficient space.

Conclusion

There are several strategies to ensure that your kitchen remodel does not spiral out of control; all you need to do is establish solid ground rules. With just a little planning, your kitchen renovation will run well, and you may even finish under budget. However, don’t forget to include a contingency budget if the project throws you a curveball!

Small-Scale Renovations for Increasing Resale Value

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Typically homeowners consider large projects when brainstorming ways in which to increase their resale value. But not all renovations require you to add extra livable space or completely overhauling your property. Sometimes, it is the small-scale changes that can make a substantial impact on the perceived value of your home.

Today we will look closer at the art of strategic, small-scale renovations and how they can yield significant returns. From revitalizing key rooms like kitchens and bathrooms to enhancing curb appeal through targeted exterior upgrades, this article will guide you through a range of impactful ideas that are affordable. Enjoy!

The Power of First Impressions

Let us start with the exterior, as this is typically what potential buyers see the first. And in fact, curb appeal can make or break a potential buyer’s first impression of your home. As they say, you never get a second chance to make a first impression.

The exterior of your home sets the tone for what lies within, and small-scale exterior upgrades can play a pivotal role in drawing in prospective buyers whether they see a for sale sign driving by, or browsing realtors online. A fresh coat of paint on the front door, trim, and shutters can instantly rejuvenate the facade of any home.

Landscaping is equally important, as well-maintained flower beds, manicured lawns, and neatly trimmed hedges create an inviting atmosphere. Enhance the entryway with potted plants and a clean welcome mat to make visitors feel at home from the moment they step foot on your property. Finally, old and worn fencing can detract substantially from the visual appeal, and is not that expensive to fix.

Kitchen Revitalization

Almost anyone looking to buy a home will look closely at the kitchen, as it is often considered the heart of the home, and where most Canadian families spend a significant amount of time. While full renovations can be relatively expensive, the good news is that you do not need a complete overhaul to make an impact.

Strategic small-scale renovations to the kitchen can help make it much more appealing. Some of our favorite tips include updating the hardware with modern finishes that are in vogue, replacing outdated cabinet pulls and knobs.

If your budget allows, repainting cabinets and adding new, sleek handles can give your kitchen a fresh, contemporary look. Modern light fixtures, such as pendant lights above an island or under-cabinet LED lighting, not only illuminate the space but also add a touch of sophistication.

Paint and Refresh

Giving your home a fresh coat of paint is a relatively easy and inexpensive way to transform the look and feel of your home. When painting with resale in mind, neutral and light colors are preferable, as they create a blank canvas that allows buyers to envision their own style and furniture in the space. A neutral palette also makes rooms feel larger and more open.

Consider painting over bold or dated colors that might not align with a wide range of tastes. Beyond walls, you should also pay attention to baseboards, trim, and ceilings to ensure a cohesive and polished appearance.

Return on Investment

Finally, while large-scale renovations can come with hefty price tags, small-scale improvements can offer substantial returns on your investment. The appeal of these small upgrades lies in their ability to make a noticeable difference without breaking the bank.

Another benefit of opting for smaller scale renovations, is that it often times leaves open the option of hiring contractors to help with the actual work. At The HandyForce we would love to hear more about your project, as we are experienced in renovations, whether interior or exterior.

We understand that changing the initial perception can result in higher offers and a faster sale process, ultimately providing a favorable return on the relatively modest investment you have made with your small-scale renovations. Good luck!

The Benefits of Custom Home Renovations

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Living in your home should feel great, no matter if the temperatures outside are soaring or plummeting, if you are doing chores or relaxing on the sofa. Custom home renovations are a great way to add some personality to your home, while also upgrading the comfort and value at the same time.

Some custom renovations completely change the feel and look of the home, while others focus on a single room. Regardless of your wishes, these specific types of efforts can help you feel more at ease, making it your own little paradise.

So in this article we will take a closer look at some of the different advantages and options you have when considering custom home renovations. Enjoy!

A personalized home to fit your every need

As opposed to a normal renovation, a custom home renovation entails making the space your own and catering to your specific needs and wishes.

Whether that means adding an outdoor spa, turning the unused attic into a home office, or creating a modern and functional open kitchen area is up to you. The only limit is your imagination, and of course budget.

By not just going for the standard choices, but really considering what you and your family needs, you can achieve something truly personal that fits like a glove and makes you feel as though you never want to leave.

Increased Home Value

As long as your custom home renovations are not solely for your own enjoyment, meaning that other people might appreciate them as well, then your efforts might be rewarded in terms of a higher value once selling your home.

Whether you remodel with an open floor plan, connecting the kitchen and dining room, or modernize the hardwood floors and floor panels, custom home renovations can be a profitable pursuit. Just keep in mind what other people are looking for as well, and if possible keep your renovations as timeless and with as wide an appeal as possible.

Can improve the safety and add peace of mind

Sometimes these custom home renovations are not just about adding personal touches, but instead adapting the space to fit the human needs we all have. Older generations might want to install different handrails, safeguards and other gear to help avoid painful falls, or at least provide an option to get back on your feet if an accident occurs.

Families with young children might wish to childproof their swimming pools, make the stairways safer to traverse and so on. These things can provide an ease of mind, leading to less stress and worry in the long run.

The whole idea of custom home renovations is to solve an issue or address a need particular to you and your loved ones, so while the suggestions are some common things, the possibilities are endless.

Enhance the aesthetic appeal

Other custom renovations of homes focus more on the visual aspect. Whether it is removing all the old wallpaper and replacing it with modern ones, or knocking down that annoying wall that once housed an old stove.

The benefits of spending some effort on upgrading the look of your home are many, and includes making your day a little brighter, creating a more enjoyable home, and even impressing the neighbors or potential buyers with your newly gained curb appeal.

The Best Home Renovations for Increasing Resale Value

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Whether you are looking to get the most resale value out of your old and beloved home, or simply wish to spend your money the wisest, certain home renovations are known to provide better returns than others.

In this article we will go over the very best types of home renovations you can perform, in order to set yourself up for success when selling your home. We have tailored this list specifically to a Canadian audience, but many of these renovations also do well in the US and Europe for instance. Enjoy!

1. Renovating your kitchen

Perhaps no other home renovation can provide as much resale value as the kitchen. This is after all one of the rooms in which families spend the most time awake. And no matter if you are only using the microwave, or cooking gourmet meals on a daily basis, having a nice, functional and presentable kitchen will certainly entice future buyers.

Not only will this mean that your overall home can see an increase in value, it will also be a top selling point that convinces potential homebuyers to choose your home over the others on the market. If you are unsure where to start, renovating the kitchen is always a sure thing.

2. Renovating your bathroom

Next on our list is the bathroom. Once again an updated bathroom that keeps in line with the modern aesthetics and has a timeless feel can add significant value to your home. Some ideas to consider include upgrading the fixtures, adding new tiles, and installing a modern shower or bathtub.

In Canada the trend has been moving towards larger bathrooms than in previous decades, so if you have room for it, consider adding some square footage where possible. This can make the bathroom feel inviting and luxurious, adding even more value to your home.

3. Energy efficient renovations

Gone are the days of wasteful excess. Today many Canadian homebuyers are increasingly interested in efficient features, such as windows, insulation, and heating systems. By renovating with a mind for sustainability and efficiency, you can achieve reduced energy costs and make your home more attractive to environmentally conscious buyers.

4. Curb appeal

Spending some time on improving the curb appeal is important for making a good first impression on potential buyers, but be careful what you choose. Not all exterior projects provide the same levels of value.

A spa or pool will typically not increase the home value, and in some cases might even detract some value, or dissuade certain homebuyers due to the added upkeep and maintenance involved. Instead, you should consider adding universally useful features, such as a deck, patio, or outdoor kitchen, as well as refreshing your landscaping with new plants and flowers.

Final thoughts

Remember that not all renovations are created equal when it comes to adding resale value. Before you begin any major renovation projects, it can be a good idea to consult with a real estate professional in order to determine which upgrades are likely to yield the best return on investment for your specific market.

How to Maximize Space in Your Home Through Renovations

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Having plenty of space to move around is something most of us enjoy. But with the rising house prices in Canada, it can be tricky to find a home in the right area that also affords plenty of free space for yourself, your children and everything else you need room for.

Whether you already have a home you are looking to optimize the space for, or whether you are considering buying a particular home that feels a bit small, this article will help you understand what your options are in terms of maximizing your space. Good luck!

Do not rush your decision

If you have just bought your home but have not yet moved in, you might not realize exactly what it is that makes the space feel cramped for instance. While not always possible, it can be a good idea to live in the home for a week or longer before making massive changes.

This is in order for you to get a good feeling of the flow of the space, and to get a better understanding of what would help and what is necessary. Nothing is worse than spending money and time on a renovation project that turns out to be unnecessary and thus a waste.

Opening up the space

One of the most common ways of maximizing space in a home, is by removing sections of walls that block the light and obstruct easy passages. Just remember not to touch load bearing walls without professional help, as this can lead to disaster in a short time.

Most of us are familiar with an open and combined dining room and kitchen area, but there are plenty of other areas where knocking down a part of the wall can free up room for all sorts of activities.

Consider dual purpose areas

These days there are plenty of brilliant solutions for the space conscious family. With many Canadians working from home, more and more people have turned their guest bedroom into a home office.

But what about when the inlaws are visiting? In this case something simple like a wall mounted bed that you can pull down, would allow you to keep working during the weekdays, and on the weekend convert the room to a livable guestroom.

Maximize the amount natural light

Luxury is defined by space and light. If you are having issues with the space in your home, maximizing the amount of natural light flowing into your rooms can help make the space feel larger and more open.

Consider adding windows or skylights, or removing heavy curtains to let in more light. Alternatively, a gable fronted dormer can not only add more light into the room, but even provide more square footage as well.

Build an extension to your home

Finally, the last option on our list is to add an entirely new section to your existing square footage. Whether this is connected directly to the rest of your home, or functions as a separate space for the teenager to enjoy is up to you.

You might even be able to convert the upstairs attic into a livable area. Just remember to check with local planning officers, and obtain all the necessary permits in order to fully register the area, and avoid potential fines and issues when selling the home down the road.

How to Budget for Your Home Renovation Project

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Have you decided to begin a renovation project for your home? Then you might be one of the many Canadians improving their house each year. One of the most important things to ensure a successful experience, is making a budget that fits your project and then of course sticking to it.

It is easier said than done of course, but with a few tips and tricks, you can become much better equipped to take on the tasks ahead. So in this article we will cover some of the different ways in which you can create a realistic budget. Good luck!

Settle on the extent of the project

Before you can begin the process of actually creating your budget, you should first figure out exactly what the renovation actually entails. This can be a relatively easy task, or it might require you contacting professionals in order to get an idea of the work that needs to be done.

Perhaps you are simply removing old wallpaper and giving the walls and ceilings a new coat of paint, in which case there probably won’t be any hidden expenses. But if you are digging up the old hardwood floors, or replacing the roof tiles, you might notice other things that need to be fixed as well in the process.

Research the time needed

While this is not strictly necessary in terms of the budget itself, it can also help if you are calculating a rough timeline. If nothing else, it will give you an idea of the scope of the entire renovation, and also help make it clear when to hire which contractors.

Research costs for materials, permits, contractors

Next up you will need to figure out rough costs for everything necessary. Remember to include permits if needed, and also account for the wages for contractors and so on. It can be a good idea to divide this into the different parts of the project, such as kitchen renovation, basement and so on.

Take your time with this step, and if in doubt, add a bit more than you think might be necessary. No home renovation project ever failed because there was too much money available, but many projects have stalled due to lack of funds.

Materials are relatively straightforward to figure out if you are buying directly from a shop, but sometimes contractors wish to use their own connections and suppliers, which might be cheaper, but also require you to rely on the quote you got.

Make a prioritized list

Now that you have an idea of the cost and time of each individual area of your home, it is time to be realistic with what you wish to spend on the project. If you have already divided up the cost per area of the home, you can now pick and choose between the different projects you’d like.

If you are in doubt whether to choose between certain areas, perhaps consider which of those would add the most resale value to the home, or which would give the most comfort if you plan on living there for many years to come.

 

3 Tips and tricks for renovating your kitchen

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Do you wish to increase the value of your home? Are you tired of that one drawer that never quite opens fully? Or perhaps you would prefer updating that ancient looking tiling on your kitchen walls? There are countless reasons why renovating your kitchen is a great idea, and why so many Canadians remodel and renovate their kitchens every year.

If you are considering updating your kitchen, whether it is because you just moved into a new place, or perhaps you are just tired of the old and worn trim, then you are in luck! In this blog post we have curated 3 of our best tips and tricks for renovating your kitchen beautifully and effectively.

Luxury is defined by light and space

This might be an age old saying, but it is true nonetheless. One of the most popular things to do in especially older homes, is tearing down sections of walls in the kitchen.

This allows for more light to enter the room, and opens up the space, creating more room to move about. In some situations you will also be able to converse with family members in the living or dining room, while you are cooking a healthy and tasty meal.

By creating a more modern kitchen environment, you will not only be more comfortable, but also increase the value of your home. Buyers are always looking at the kitchen as one of the major considerations when choosing between homes, so make yours stand out!

Update your wallpaper

A fresh layer of paint can do wonders for any type of kitchen, old or new. As times change, so do our preferences of colors.

Whether for your own benefit, or for potential buyers, making sure that your walls and floors have a modern look and feel, you can ensure your kitchen is presented in the best possible light.

We recommend choosing lighter colors, as these are more neutral, meaning that it will take longer for you to tire of them, they will remain relevant and trendy for longer, and potential buyers will be less likely to have an issue with these types of colors.

Beige, white and light grey are all modern choices that are excellent, but feel free to choose one wall or section to highlight with a bold pop of color.

What to do about the old cabinets?

One of the major concerns that most homeowners have, is the question of what to do with the old kitchen cabinets. These tend to feel outdated quite frequently, but they can be expensive to replace, and are often in a good enough condition.

At The HandyForce we are experienced with all types of renovations, from completely changing your kitchen cabinets, to rearranging the existing ones, or perhaps even painting the doors on your cabinets.

If you are in doubt, just remember that we are always available for a consultation in order to help you achieve the best possible kitchen, for an affordable price and within the deadline. So contact us today in order to learn more!