ERA Justin Report: Tackling Home Improvements. Are You Up To The Task?

ERA Justin Co. has many successful agents.That applies to Julia Dagistanli who joined ERA Justin Realty as a full-time salesperson. She has been selected twice as a New Jersey Five Star Home Professional by New Jersey Monthly magazine and has gained admiration from her her buyers and sellers. She now offers her report and asks, are you up to the task of tackling home improvements yourself?

ERA Justin Report: Tackling Home Improvements. Are You Up To The Task? 

Remodeling or building a home can be quite exciting and challenging! It's your opportunity to create living and work space that suits your individual needs. By acting as your own contractor you can save a bundle of cash. The tradeoff is an occasional headache or two. Are you up to the task?

ERA Justin Realty's Realtor agent Julia Dagistanli, suggests, "If something can go wrong, it probably will! You've heard that one before. But proper planning can eliminate a lot of those woes. It's necessary to coordinate everything before you begin the project. Educate yourself on what needs to happen and when.

If you are remodeling the bath and kitchen, you will need to have a plumber and an electrician do their work long before the tile is installed and the walls painted. Start a planning log and keep all your information in one spot. That way, it's easier to see the whole picture at once. Include your building or remodeling plans along with all your decorating ideas. And list estimated costs next to each item under consideration.

You can save money in the kitchen and bath by utilizing the old footprints instead of moving plumbing, electrical and gas services. But if the old setup is outdated or doesn't suit your lifestyle, get some expert assistance on a re-design. You'll get the advantage of a more pleasing floor plan and when it's time to sell; this can be a real advantage.

Your budget is the first thing you'll have to contend with. Don't think that because you can't spend a bundle you must forgo the extras. Consider which upgrades are important to you. Are you happy with a stainless sink, or would a more expensive porcelain one satisfy you better? Would a whirlpool tub or sauna be an appreciated luxury or would you prefer to put that money into a more deluxe shower? You may not be able to afford all the bells and whistles, but the addition of one or two 'must have' items will go a long way in creating the perfect space for you and your family.

Don't forget about permits, inspections and safety features. Never attempt portions of the project yourself unless you have the expertise. Leave the complicated things up to the professionals and remind yourself that you're saving a lot by doing some of the work yourself."

Ron Darby broker co-owner added, “At ERA Justin Realty the words, ‘There is a difference in real estate companies’ is more than a phrase.  We live it every day.  Because of our daily priorities, we proudly received several prestigious ERA global awards, the ‘Commitment to Excellence Award’ as well as the 'Circle of Light for Community Service" award, the only firm from approximately 31,000 ERA brokers and agents. For these reasons ERA Justin Realty has been selected by thousands of buyers and sellers as their Realtor of choice over the past 64 years. Our team would love to be your Realtor."

All of the ERA Justin Realty full service sales professionals can be reached at either of their two Rutherford offices at 118 Jackson Avenue and 57 Park Avenue.  By office phone (201) 939-7500, (201) 438-0588 or (201) 438-SOLD.  Additional cutting-edge real estate technology also information awaits you at www.ERAJustin.com and www.ERAJustinRealty.com.