Home Renovations: To Live In or Not To Live In? That is the Question
Living
So, you’ve decided to carry out home renovations. Whether you’re conducting minor or major renovations, many homeowners are faced with making a decision on whether to live in or move out during the process. There are advantages and disadvantages for each, as well as other factors to consider, but which will work out best for you? Once the construction or remodeling team arrives, your decision should be made.
Factors to Consider
1. Finances
Can you afford to rent another place while your home is being renovated? Some construction and remodeling companies also charge extra to carry out renovations while the clients are living in. Either way, there are additional costs involved. In order to make a sound decision, it is best to discuss the costs involved in staying on during home renovation.
2. Type of Project
Home renovating comes in all shapes and sizes. Are you adding a second story to your home or changing the roof? Chances are you’ll want to move out as these renovations can involve major construction and will most likely call for the need to cut off air conditioning and heating, electricity and plumbing services. Can you deal with that?
Additionally, if you are remodeling more than half of your home, chances are your kitchen and bathrooms will be affected. Living without a kitchen may not be a problem, but living without a bathroom leaves no place to keep you clean.
3. Family and Pets
If you live alone, then deciding whether to live in or move out during home renovations may not be a big deal. However, if you have children, moving out may be your only option. Construction and remodeling can be dangerous and extremely noisy. The workers cannot be expected to stop working while your child takes a nap – this will prolong the remodeling process and be more expensive for you. If you have a family, especially with small children, chances are you’ll have to move out.
After you’ve considered these factors, you may want to weigh out the pros and cons of living in versus moving out while your home is being renovated.
Living In During Home Renovations
Advantages include:
- Avoiding costs associated with moving out and renting a new place
- Constantly being aware of the state of your house, which can provide peace of mind
Disadvantages include:
- There may be additional charges by your contractor
- Dirt, dust and noise
- Lack of plumbing, electrical and HVAC services
Moving Out
You can avoid all the disadvantages associated with living in during home renovation. However, unless you have a friend or family you can live with, you will have to incur the costs associated with moving out and renting a new place. Depending where you move to, moving out can also disrupt your family’s daily routine.
Home renovations can be grueling. For that reason, many people choose to move out for the duration of the process. However, the decision is up to you and your personal situation. Considering all these factors will certainly make the decision easier for you.
