To most Canadians, the home represents their biggest and most important investment. Thus, it is critical to keep the home looking its best.

Unfortunately, the home doesn’t stay as perfect as when we first bought it. Over time, it is important that we maintain and update it to keep it looking fresh, beautiful, and valuable.

According to a report by Altus Group, homeowners spent around $8 billion on renovations in Alberta in 2017.  The report further states that homeowners borrowed at least $17 billion for home renovation projects.

The same report states that a majority of homeowners prefer to renovate their homes rather than purchase or move into a new property.  This comes as no surprise because it costs less to renovate than to buy a new home.

This only emphasizes what the majority of homeowners already know – we need to give some love and care to our homes by periodically doing minor and major fixes, exterior and interior home improvements, and upgrades with major areas such as the bathroom, kitchen, and basement.

If you are interested in renovating your home in Edmonton, you can find many useful tips and advice for planning your home renovation right here.

 

Most common reasons in Edmonton to renovate your home | Basement, Kitchen & Bathroom ideas.

According to a survey by the Canadian Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) consisting of 19,381 households, 50% responded that the reason for their home renovation is “wear and tear”.

This means that the majority of Canadians renovate their homes to fix and repair issues. 29% also stated that the reason for renovating their home is to convert unused space such as the basement.

What are the parts of a house that usually require a renovation?

Because the most frequently used areas in any home is the kitchen and bathrooms, these 2 are high in the list of renovation projects. They are also the top considerations of potential homebuyers.  The basement tops the list of spaces that can be renovated to add extra living space.

 

 The top home renovations with best return on investment

Even though you have no plans to sell your home in the near future, you should know that a home renovation can certainly increase your property’s market value and provide a good return on investment.

A home improvement project can also make you happier in your own home and significant updates can really add value when the time comes for you to sell.

It is not surprising that homeowners are finding ways to be able to afford a home renovation, what with real estate prices rising and the demand for single-family homes still strong as ever.

But before you decide on your home renovation project, you should know the top home improvements with the best returns.

 

Kitchen, Bathroom, and Basement Renovations top projects with the highest ROI

As a homeowner planning a home renovation before a home sale or just to improve property value, you would surely want to know what the top home renovations are that promise a high return on investment.

There are renovation projects that have a greater ROI in terms of property value and resale value.

 

According to the Appraisal Institute of Canada, the following home renovations are beneficial financially:

• Kitchen, bathroom, and basement renovations
• Window and door renovations
• Interior and exterior painting
• Floor renovation or upgrade
• Replacement or upgrade of the heating system

It is not surprising that the kitchen is a high-priority renovation for many homeowners.

As the most ideal gathering place for the family that lives in the home, a kitchen renovation delivers a high level of happiness for the household members and is also a critical selling factor to homebuyers.

 

The 5 incredible benefits of remodeling a kitchen

A report by the National Association of Realtors (NAR) stated that 42% of homeowners who renovated their kitchens stated that the primary reason for doing so is to upgrade worn-out surfaces, materials, and finishes.

The second most common reason is that homeowners felt it was time for a change.

Kitchens, being used frequently and by almost everyone in the home, will obviously have wear and tear over time.  Grease, grime, oil, and other by-products of daily use will cause a deterioration of its components and will need repair periodically.

 

There are several benefits of a successful kitchen renovation, namely:

Increased Functionality

After a kitchen renovation, improvements increase the overall functionality of the kitchen, making it a more efficient, convenient, fun, and creative place for you and other family members.

Updated and modern design

If your kitchen was built 15 or more years ago, it is time to get your kitchen updated.

You can hire a kitchen remodeling contractor to refresh the look of the kitchen and make it more suitable to modern lifestyles.

Reduce Energy costs

Changing and updating kitchen appliances generally goes with a makeover.

New and modern equipment with higher energy efficiency can reduce your energy consumption and help you save money.

Comfort and Safety

A kitchen renovation should be designed to make working in the kitchen simpler, easier, and less time-consuming.

A new layout can improve workflow and increase safety while working there.

You can plan to eliminate certain dangerous aspects like putting away sharp objects out of reach of children or making shelves easier to reach.

Increase the value of your home

Kitchen upgrades have proven essential when selling a house.

A remodeled kitchen can speed up a home sale and provide a higher return on investment.

Of course, it isn’t always necessary to spend a fortune prior to a home sale for a kitchen renovation.

Professionals can help you determine improvements that are ideal and profitable that would suit your budget and increase your selling price.

NAR reports that 54% of realtors recommend kitchen upgrades before listing a property for sale and estimates the recoverable amount from the project after a home sale at 57%.

Further, NAR reports that 18% of realtors advise their clients to undertake a complete kitchen renovation prior to a home sale.

They also put the percentage of value that could potentially be recovered from a kitchen renovation at 62%.

But even if you don’t plan to sell the home any time soon, a kitchen renovation will still improve the property value to make your investment in your home even more valuable.

 

How to start planning a kitchen renovation

As an integral part of the home where each and every member of the household spends time, the kitchen needs to be a comfortable and happy place for all.

It is important to have a practical work layout, spacious work area, sufficient storage space, convenient and reliable equipment, and high functionality.

Before undertaking any design or layout, it is important to consult a kitchen contractor and designer to get the best ideas about how to transform your kitchen in the most creative yet economical way.

 

You can start your planning by determining the following:

• Your family’s needs and lifestyles: eating habits, activities, interests, special needs
• Your renovation budget

 

Setting your renovation budget

It is important to set a budget for your project from the get-go.

How much do you want to spend on your kitchen renovation?

A kitchen renovation will need to consider:

• Plumbing
• Electrical works
• Cabinets and countertop
• Sink and faucet
• Painting, trim, and other details
• Floor upgrade
• New appliances
• Lighting
• Furniture
• Accessories

Of course, you may not need to completely change everything.

Ask yourself if you want to change your appliances or if you think you can retain your existing countertop.

Depending on the quality and condition of the components of your kitchen, you can make a list of your “must-haves” and items you wish to keep.

Professional kitchen contractors will be able to offer you advice on how you can economize your kitchen remodeling project.

The joy rating for a kitchen renovation project is very high among homeowners.

You will surely be happy to spend more time in your kitchen after the remodeling is completed.

If you are worried about the cost of your renovation, you can find information about financing a home renovation with your existing mortgage.

 

The cost of a kitchen renovation in Edmonton

Are you now planning your budget for a kitchen renovation? Many people fail to set aside enough funds for their project. They don’t expect a kitchen renovation to cost so much and that unexpected “surprises” can really wreak havoc on your plan.

How can you determine how much to set aside for your project?

Experts put the average cost of a kitchen renovation in Canada in the vicinity of $25,000, less if you don’t replace everything or make drastic changes to your space.

If you are buying high-end appliances and installing luxury kitchen counters and custom cabinetry, the cost could reach as high as $50,000.  It also depends on the size of the kitchen.

Below are the components of a kitchen where most of the budget for a renovation is spent:

Kitchen Item	Average Cost
Cabinets and shelves	$8,000
Flooring	$12 per sq. ft.(wood) $4 up per sq. ft. (ceramic tiles) $3-$5 per sq. ft. (vinyl)
Natural stone countertop	$75 per sq. ft. (granite) (for supply and installation) $35 per sq. ft. (marble)
Backsplash	$1,200
Appliances	$350 on average per appliance (depending on the type and brand
Plumbing	$1,200 (for installation of new pipes) around $150 per hour ( installing a new faucet) around $250 per hour (installing a new sink)
Electrical works	Estimated at 5% of your budget

 

There are many factors to consider when estimating the cost of your project. It also depends on the materials you choose and the type of upgrades you want.

On average, a small kitchen renovation could cost around $10,000 or less (simple upgrades) while a 10 x 10 kitchen remodel usually costs from $15,000 to $35,000.

The cost to remodel a large kitchen could range from $40,000 to $70,000, depending on the type of appliances, countertop, cabinets, floor, and other accessories.

The best thing to do to obtain a more accurate estimate for your project is to find the right kitchen contractor to help you. After an initial assessment of your space and a discussion of your goals, your contractor will provide you with an estimate of the cost.

Renovating a kitchen can be an expensive endeavor but don’t cut too many corners. You want to make sure you get a high quality job and a very satisfactory result by hiring a licensed and experienced kitchen contractor.

 

You can look for the right kitchen contractor for your dream kitchen by using the short online form on this page.
Our partner contractors, qualified and licensed professionals serving your area, will send you FREE and NO OBLIGATION quotes!

 

Types of bathroom renovations and how to save on costs

If you want to renovate your bathroom but don’t want to wreak havoc on your finances, it is best to find out how much the cost will be for your bathroom renovation and plan your budget.

While you definitely shouldn’t compromise quality, you can always figure out which items you can sacrifice to trim down the cost.

Professional bathroom contractors understand how important your budget is and will be happy to offer practical solutions to stay within your budget.

 

First of all, there are several types of bathroom renovations.

• A minor bathroom renovation may involve changing the flooring, replacing faucets and shower, or adding accessories to improve aesthetics. It won’t involve changing the layout or increasing the floor area.
• A mid-range bathroom renovation refers to installing a toilet, tub and surrounding tiles, a double sink and vanity, and ceramic tile flooring.
• In contrast, a high-end bathroom renovation may involve expanding the square feet of your existing bathroom, adding or changing windows, changing the layout, installing a tiled shower and shower enclosure, installing a stone countertop, recessed lighting, and other amenities.

A bathroom renovation can easily cost $20,000 or more. If you don’t want to spend that much, you can always find a renovation design that fits your budget by establishing what you really need and what you can sacrifice.  It is, oftentimes, all about compromise.

Speak to a licensed bathroom contractor from our network to find the best bathroom design that suits your taste and budget.

 

Be prepared for contingencies by adding 20% to your budget

Experts recommend a golden rule when it comes to renovations: add 20% to your budget for unexpected costs.

Any unexpected issues will mean extra expenses.

By having a buffer, you won’t cringe every time your contractor finds a problem with your plumbing, gas line, electrical, or subfloor.

By being prepared, you can handle emergencies that would arise during the project.

 

The importance and value of bathroom renovations

The bathroom is, without a doubt, the most essential part of the house. It is the first place you need to go to in the morning and probably the first place you want to go when you arrive home from work.

In fact, the bathroom is probably the most private part of the house where one can take refuge, luxuriate in a bath or shower, and do the most personal things on a daily basis.

With that being said, it is important for the bathrooms in the home to be convenient, comfortable, roomy, and appealing.

 

What is the importance of bathroom renovations?

Why is the bathroom so important? It isn’t just a room in the house where we do personal hygiene.

It is the one room where we start the day and even the last place to go before turning in for the night.

It is where we go when we want privacy because everyone understands that nobody should enter an occupied bathroom.

It is also a place where we can be ourselves, find inspiration, and even relax after a stressful day.

In fact, modern bathrooms have become more functional with spa features that make a bathroom a special place.

Furthermore, the bathroom sets the tone for the home. No matter how aesthetically pleasing the living room and dining rooms are, if the bathroom is outdated, it may project a negative impression to visitors.

 

Common reasons for renovating or updating a bathroom

If your bathroom has a plumbing problem, an outdated shower system, insufficient storage, or a dated flooring, these would be good enough reasons to upgrade or renovate.

Majority of homeowners undertaking a bathroom renovation do so in order to fix problems. We need a bathroom that works, makes our life convenient and comfortable, and to have an ambiance that lets us relax.

In short, people renovate a bathroom usually because they want a space where they can be comfortable in this very important room of the house.

 

There are, however, other equally important reasons to renovate a bathroom including:

• To accommodate a special need (such as in the case of a disability or an elderly person)
• To increase its size or space
• To change the layout
• To improve aesthetic appeal
• To add features like a Jacuzzi, sauna, etc.
• To increase the value of the home prior to a home sale

The condition and quality of a bathroom can be a deal breaker if you are selling your house.

Many real estate brokers would advise a bathroom upgrade or a renovation to get a good selling price.

Experts say that bathroom renovations have a 71% ROI, making it a good home improvement project.

 

How much will it cost to renovate a bathroom?

If you want to renovate your bathroom but don’t want to wreak havoc on your finances, it is best to find out how much the cost will be for your bathroom renovation and plan your budget.

While you definitely shouldn’t compromise quality, you can always figure out which items you can sacrifice to trim down the cost.

Professional bathroom contractors understand how important your budget is and will be happy to offer practical solutions to stay within your budget.

First of all, there are several types of bathroom renovations.

• A minor bathroom renovation may involve changing the flooring, replacing faucets and shower, or adding accessories to improve aesthetics. It won’t involve changing the layout or increasing the floor area.
• A mid-range bathroom renovation refers to installing a toilet, tub and surrounding tiles, a double sink and vanity, and ceramic tile flooring.
• In contrast, a high-end bathroom renovation may involve expanding the square feet of your existing bathroom, adding or changing windows, changing the layout, installing a tiled shower and shower enclosure, installing a stone countertop, recessed lighting, and other amenities.

A bathroom renovation can easily cost $20,000 or more. If you don’t want to spend that much, you can always find a renovation design that fits your budget by establishing what you really need and what you can sacrifice.  It is, oftentimes, all about compromise.

Speak to a licensed bathroom contractor from our network to find the best bathroom design that suits your taste and budget.

 

 

8 Amazing bathroom upgrades that are worth considering for your renovation

If you are planning a bathroom renovation, there are some upgrades that are truly worth considering.

These features will require an investment on your part but they will provide you with great rewards.

 

FLOATING BATHROOM VANITY

Floating bathroom vanities have become widely popular. It provides advantages that homeowners find delightful.

• Eye-catching
• Perfect for individuals who prefer a minimalist design
• Saves space by creating additional storage
• Improves air circulation
• Easier to clean
• Sleek and stylish

Floating vanities come in different materials, colors, designs, and styles.

 

FRAMELESS GLASS SHOWERS

Glass in the bathroom will certainly add sophistication and luxury but a frameless glass shower is not only about appearance.

Aging family members will find it easier to use the shower because there is no ledge to step over.

It is, therefore, safer and more convenient.

 

RADIANT HEATED FLOORING

Wouldn’t it be nice to feel warmth underfoot while in the bathroom?

Cold materials such as stone or ceramic tiles can be uncomfortable.

You can upgrade to a new floor with radiant heating system for added comfort.

 

BATHROOM VENT FAN

If your bathroom doesn’t have a vent fan, upgrade with a renovation to improve air flow.

It can help to clear steam from mirrors faster and fix moisture on walls.

This will prevent mold and mildew from growing.

 

SHOWER BENCH

It used to be seen only in spas but modern bathrooms now include shower benches that encourage you to linger in the shower.

The bench can be tiled with the rest of the bathroom.

 

FREESTANDING TUB

Eliminate stress with a relaxing soak in the tub.

Soothe your fatigue away.

You should choose a tub model that gives enough room for you to be comfortable.

 

HEATED TOWEL BARS

Heated towel bars, also called towel warmers, will allow you to wrap your body with warm towels after a shower.

You will never have to endure a damp towel ever.

 

STEAM SHOWER

Nothing gives a spa experience like a steam shower.

You will need a door that seals tightly.

To prevent moisture, install a vapor barrier and wall framing.

 

These upgrades do cost money but they can create a truly amazing bathroom that you will enjoy for a long, long time.

Professional bathroom contractors can advise you on upgrades you want and ensure you get value for your money.

 

Why choose a professional bathroom remodeling?

With so many home renovation shows on television, many people are tempted to go DIY because it looks easy and more economical.

But remember, a bathroom renovation is quite complex. It requires various skills because the work involves plumbing, drywall, tiling, and even electrical work.

 

Below are some of the pressing reasons why it is better to hire a qualified bathroom contractor for a bathroom renovation.

• If there are issues that need to be resolved, professionals are quick to find them and offer the best solutions.
  • Although hiring a professional is more expensive than a DIY project, you will have peace of mind that the results will be worth every penny you spend.
• A professional contractor will be able to offer viable solutions to your goals.
  • If you want to increase the size of your bathroom, change your tub to a walk-in shower, or improve the layout, his experience in handling similar problems will ensure that your goals are achieved efficiently.
• Because they are licensed professionals, they are knowledgeable about the building code and other standards required in the province of Alberta.
  • He will make sure your project is up to code and can help you obtain the necessary permits to avoid delays and other problems.
• New installations like a new bathroom countertop, tub, rain shower, or shower glass door need the necessary expertise.
  • This will help you save time and money.
• Professional contractors offer a warranty for their work which protects you in case issues arise that need to be resolved.
• Professionals also have the necessary insurance which saves you from liability in case of damage or someone gets injured in your home while the project is underway.
• Professional bathroom renovations definitely increase the property value.
  • A DIY job won’t achieve the same level of quality.

If you want to know the cost of a bathroom renovation by a licensed contractor in your area, fill out the form below
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Save time and money with a bathroom renovation and create the bathroom you have always dreamed of.

 

Get more living space with a basement finishing or renovation

The cost of a basement renovation provides value per square foot that is higher than other types of home improvement. You can finish a basement or renovate an existing one to increase the value of your home and give your family more room to enjoy.

In fact, a finished basement will add functionality, storage, entertainment area, and even sleeping areas to your home.

 

Double your Living Space

Did you know that you can almost double your living space with a basement finishing or renovation?

How you want to use that extra space is up to you! If you need a guest bedroom, a suite for your aging parent or newly-married son, a home office, recreation room, or even a play space for your kids, the basement can be that and more.

Create Supplemental Income

If you are willing to invest in a basement renovation, you can turn it into a secondary suite that can provide you with a regular supplemental income.

You can even get money to pay for your mortgage from your rent income as well as other expenses.

A secondary suite can also increase the value of your home if you decide to sell in the future.

 

Enhance your home’s appearance

By finishing or renovating your basement, the overall aesthetic appeal of your property will be enhanced.

A finished basement is a big draw for homebuyers and will elicit admiration from guests in your home.

Don’t let your basement be a dungeon that no family member wants to go to.

Transform it into a beautiful and functional space and increase the value of your property!

 

If you need to hire a basement contractor in Edmonton, fill out the form on this page and be connected with licensed contractors near you.
Our partners are all 100% verified and will be happy to provide you with FREE and NO OBLIGATION quotes for your project!

 

The average cost of a professional basement renovation

If you are thinking of finally finishing that basement, you would want to know the cost of the project.

The price will ultimately depend on how elaborate you want your basement to be, the function of your new basement (gym, home office, basement living room, income suite) and the floor size.

 

The basics in estimating the cost of finishing a basement

Finishing a basement generally costs about $30 per sq. ft. but that amount can increase threefold depending on the complexity of the project and the materials you choose.

The majority of basement finishing projects cost about $30,000.

Naturally, the cost can vary greatly based on the size of the basement, the type of renovation, and the contractor you choose.

It is best to get multiple quotes from reputable basement contractors so you can compare and choose the best one that suits your needs.

 

What are the factors that affect the cost of a basement renovation?

Size matters but it is not the only factor that determines the cost of your project. Another major component is labor.

Many people are not DIY pros and would need to prepare a budget for skilled labor.

Other factors that drive the cost up would be plumbing (if you are installing a bathroom or kitchen in the basement), carpentry work for cabinets, electrician for lighting, and general labor for the drywall and flooring. You will also need painting services and the materials you need for your project.

If you are adding sleeping space or a building a secondary suite in the basement, you may need to secure a building permit and ensure that you are complying with zoning by-laws of Edmonton.

If you want an income suite or a secondary suite, you may need to build an egress window that is large enough or a separate entry from the stairway in compliance with the local building code.

 

The value of finishing a basement: What is the ROI?

A basement renovation can be a great investment. According to cost vs. value survey conducted by Remodeling magazine annually, the average ROI of a basement project is about 75%.

If you are concerned about resale value, it is advisable to stay within 10% of the value of your house in finishing your basement. If resale value is not an issue and you just want a basement you can enjoy, go ahead and transform the basement into your personal paradise.

If you want to cut back on costs, though, be moderate in your choices and seek advice from a reputable professional in planning your basement project.

 

Which room to renovate before selling your house

Before you decide to completely gut a 25-year old kitchen or renovate your basement, it is best to consult with professionals on what renovations will give you the highest return.

The answer lies in the value of your home, your target buyers, and the comparables (average selling prices) in your neighborhood.

A nice kitchen is a major draw for buyers but you don’t need to completely overhaul your old kitchen and spend a fortune. Make your kitchen sparkle with new lights, paint or reface old cabinets, replace drawer pulls, and upgrade important appliances. Stainless appliances particularly make a kitchen more appealing to a wide range of buyers although they will surely cost a ton of money.

It is also important to have a modern bathroom because dated bathrooms can quickly turn off buyers.

If you have a small renovation budget, talk to your realtor as well as a reputable contractor to get professional advice. You need bids from qualified contractors who can offer you a quote that suits your wallet and your timetable.

A report by Remodeling recommends putting off a basement renovation before a home sale because buyers will prefer to remodel it to their own preference. It is advisable, though, to fix any issues in the basement prior to a home sale.

The bottom line: If you are selling, prioritize renovating areas in the home that could pose problems in a home inspection report. Broken tiles, faulty or leaking pipes, dated décor, faded paint, and electrical and heating systems are important and must be addressed during a home renovation.

In other words, fix what is broken and spend extra dough on important upgrades based on what your target buyers would want!

 

Find the right professional renovation company to ensure success

Whether you want to add another bathroom or renovate a bathroom, kitchen, or basement, you must consider hiring a professional renovation company.

Construction of such important parts of your house shouldn’t be treated lightly or like a hobby.

You never know what problems are hidden behind your walls or your electrical wires and plumbing pipes.

These matters should be handled by a licensed professional.

After all, the safety of your family is paramount.

Any renovations to your home should also be done well in order to protect the value of your home.

By working with a professional renovation company, you can be sure that everything will be done right from the design to construction.

They can also take care of obtaining any or all permits needed for your project to avoid issues or delays.

You can start planning your kitchen, bathroom, or basement renovation by searching for the right contractor for the project.

If you need backyard renovation ideas or tips to choose the right patio, see our great article on the subject.

 

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