If you’ve been spending a lot more time at home over the last year, like most Americans, you’ve probably noticed that a lot of your house is due for an upgrade. However, renovations can be expensive, depending on what you’re remodeling and what you hope to accomplish. That doesn’t mean you need to defer your renovation dreams—instead, read these cost-saving tips before you reach out to your general contractor in Phoenix, AZ:

• Set a strict budget: Setting a strict budget is the first and most important part of your renovation. Before you can start picking out dream renovations, you need to know exactly how much you can afford to spend. Whatever you do, don’t stray from that budget—look for ways to cut costs instead.
• DIY anything you can: Save the major remodeling projects for your contractor. For simple things, like painting cabinets and switching out hardware, feel free to do the heavy lifting yourself. It’ll save you a bundle on professional labor costs.
• Rent a dumpster: Every remodeling project generates a lot of junk and debris. Instead of having your contractor take care of the waste disposal, you can rent a dumpster yourself. Just remember to check what can and cannot be dumped so you aren’t subject to extra fines or fees.
• Paint or refinish cabinets instead of replacing: Cabinetry can be extremely expensive, whether it’s for your kitchen or bathroom. Rather than replacing the entire cabinet system, consider refinishing or painting your cabinets. Even switching out the doors and painting them to match is cheaper than installing all-new cabinets.
• Look for deals on appliances: If you have your heart set on specific appliances, start watching for deals long before your renovation project is scheduled to begin. You might be able to score a deal on a soon-to-be retired model or a floor sample.
• Keep the same layout: Anytime a contractor has to remove walls or reconfigure a room, the price of your project goes up. Keep the same general layout (particularly if the project involves electricity and plumbing) to keep costs down.
• Add new hardware: You can paint or refinish your cabinets to change their look, but you might also consider adding new hardware. Choosing new handles and drawer pulls can add a modern touch to refurbished, repainted cabinetry—you’d never know it was the same system!
• Refurbish your furniture: Finally, instead of buying all-new furniture, try refurbishing it. Experienced DIY-ers might choose to repaint, stain or recover furniture themselves, but there are plenty of businesses that would be happy to take a stab at transforming your old pieces. It’s a much less expensive way to get an entirely new look.

Once you have a budget and know what you want to accomplish with your project, it’s time to start looking for a remodeling company in Phoenix, AZ. White Builder, Inc. can handle your home renovation. Call us today to get a quote and discuss your options—we look forward to discussing and getting started on your project!