Replacing countertops can make all the difference.
Risks and Rewards of
Renovation
Jane Thrall | Article and Photographs
Thinking about taking on a renovation? You better
have everyone in the home on board: it’s about to
get messy. Whether it’s a small project or a total
rehab, the stress of home improvement can make
the closest family question their future together.
Even minor upgrades can improve the value and
livability of a home, so don’t be afraid to take the
plunge. Many homes don’t reach their full potential
without a few tweaks and upgrades. Other homes
were never well designed from the get-go and need
more work done to improve functionality.
Often, it’s a matter of how we live today versus
how people lived when the house was originally
built. Homeowners today want large open spaces
and modern conveniences.
Entire TV programs are based on the premise
that an old 1960s bungalow can be upgraded to
become the ultimate dream home. And it can, if
38 | arta.net
money is no object. But in
reality, there are many
things to consider when
trying to decide how
much to invest in
upgrading an
older house.
Evaluate your
budget and
consider whether
the renovation
is a good idea
financially. Will the
renovation add value
to the home? Can
the household handle
the cost of a renovation
without affecting the lifestyle