Top Repairs to Make Before Listing Your House for Sale

When you planning to move, it is likely that your current home could use some upgrading; otherwise, you probably wouldn’t be moving in the first place. If you are preparing to list your home on the market for sale, it is wise to make some important repairs and renovations so that you can get the most from your asset.

Continue reading to learn which major and minor repairs you should consider and address, as well as, how to get started.

Indianapolis Home Remodeling
Indianapolis Home Remodeling 317-454-3612

Minor House Repairs

Before you list your home for sale officially, there is a long list of minor repairs that you can do to make your property more appealing to potential buyers. Even a basic deep clean is something you want to seriously consider. Here are some common minor home repairs that property owners will implement before listing their homes for sale:

► Paint – New paint is an instant refresher for any room. If your interior has not been painted in a few years, a fresh coat will instantly give your home a new feel and cleaner ambience. Just be careful choosing paint colors. Avoid colors that are bold and bright, and lean toward more modest colors, like shades of tan, beige, taupe, gray, ivory, and even a soft olive green.

Flooring – Flooring is one of the top selling points for potential home buyers. New or newly renovated flooring can instantly upgrade the look of a room, including kitchens, bathrooms, living rooms, bedrooms, and even garages.

Carpeting – Many home buyers choose to replace carpets with hardwood or laminate flooring since for a more modern feel. Also, carpeting begins to look old and worn out shortly after installation. This means that your carpet will most certainly require a deep cleaning and shampoo, or even replacement, before selling your house on the real estate market.

Lighting – Another detail that really impressed and influences potential home buyers is lighting and light fixtures. Outdated light fixtures are not appealing, so they will stick out like a sore thumb. Replacing or upgrading your lighting ambience and fixtures is an excellent way to enhance your home.

Major House Repairs

Along with minor repairs, there are usually a few major repairs you can do to make your home sell faster on the market, and at the price point you want. For instance, appliances are a huge selling point for potential buyers. Water heaters, water softeners, sump pump systems, boilers, dishwashers, washing machines, and more, should be in good condition if you want to get the most for your home.

Another key factor is roofing and siding. If your roof and siding systems are in bad shape, it would probably be lucrative for you to repair or replace them before listing your home. Otherwise, their condition will affect the offers you receive on the house. The same principle applies to other major repairs, like foundation or water damage issues, mold, pest infestations, and more.

Are you looking for a residential general contractor you can afford? Contact Restoration By L & B, LLC at 317-454-3612 for affordable home remodeling services in Indianapolis, Indiana. We guarantee to BEAT any competitor’s price!

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Indianapolis Indiana General Contractors
Indianapolis Indiana General Contractors 317-454-3612

Recommended Remodeling Tips for a New House

There is certainly a feeling of excitement after purchasing a new home, so as expected, home buyers are eager to move in as soon as they can. But, before moving into a new home, there are some specific areas to focus on for immediate renovation. Making such modifications to some commonly over-looked areas of a new house will not only better protect your asset, but will make the home entirely yours.

Continue below to review some important tips if you are looking for, buying, or moving into a new house.

Indianapolis Home Remodels
Indianapolis Home Remodels 317-454-3612

Plumbing Systems

The plumbing is the most important system in any home, aside from heating and cooling. Without proper working plumbing, a home is sent back to the stone ages. Toilets, faucets, baths, showers, laundry, and more are all everyday appliances that we use to function in life. For this reason, always be sure to have your new home’s plumbing system thoroughly inspected by a licensed professional before moving in.

The Fuse Box

Another task to complete before moving into your new home is to set up the fuse box. Learning and labeling the fuse box will require more than one person, so be sure you have a helper with you to get this job done. Grab some labeling tape and a permanent marker, and then get to work! Start by first powering off any electronics plugged in, including radios and televisions. Then, have the other person turn on all the lights in the house, and go through each fuse one by one to assign it to an area of the home. It is recommended to bring a lamp with you to plug into the outlets and check them as well. Label each fuse clearly and you’re done!

Vents

For those purchasing a new construction home, there may not be much need for vent cleaning and inspection, but it is still a good idea to clear out the dust collected during the building period. As for homes that have been around for a few years, or more, it is strongly suggested to get rid of all the years of dirt, dust, and dander that has accumulated in the ventilation system of the home. This can be done by a professional service for a relatively low price, and should take no more than a day to finish. Start your new journey in a fresh, clean home with a healthy indoor air environment.

Chimney and Fireplace

For homes that are not new construction, you definitely want the chimney inspected. Bats and birds can roost and nest in chimneys, especially in homes that are left vacant for extended periods of time. Also, there could be potential structural issues and even health concerns that a professional can point out for you. Have any issues repaired before you move in for a safe and functional fireplace.

Locks

This may seem like a no brainer, but the reality is that many home buyers get distracted with all the requirements and hassles of moving and settling into a new place, that changing the locks gets put on the back burner. And then after a while, you forget you are still using the same keys given to you at the time of closing. But it is very important to not let this happen to you. The first thing you should do before moving into a new house is change the locks. This can be done by a local door repair service, or it can even be a DIY project if you are good with tools. New locks are relatively inexpensive, but range in price depending on quality, brand, style, design, and more.

Indianapolis Home Remodels and Commercial Building Renovations

Call Restoration By L&B LLC at 317-454-3612 for Indianapolis home remodeling or commercial general contracting services at competitive prices. Owner and general contractor, Lee Elliot, is happy to answer all your questions about home remodel planning, prices, and process. And don’t forget; we guarantee to BEAT any prices quoted by our competition!

Indianapolis Indiana General Contractors
Indianapolis Indiana General Contractors 317-454-3612

Home Renovations That Will Sell Your House at a Higher Price

Remodeling a home is no simple task. It takes months of planning, fore-thought, and more to achieve a proper home renovation or remodel. One of the most important factors to consider, especially when making the decision on what you wish to remodel, is which project will give you the highest return on investment and increase the home’s property value.

Continue reading for the four top-recommended home remodeling and improvement projects that offer the highest return on investment (ROI) for homeowners.

Indianapolis Home Remodeling Contractor 317-454-3612
Indianapolis Home Remodeling Contractor 317-454-3612

What’s a Good Home Remodeling Plan?

In order to determine whether a home remodel is worth the investment, you must compare the cost of the project to the value of the project. Value versus cost is the first step to assessing whether or not a project is worthwhile. The average cost of a remodeling project has to include everything from labor and materials, to time off work, and more. And the value is assessed by how much the home’s value increases, and how much of that value returns as a profit if you were to sell the property down the line. All of these considerations and more are important when deciding whether or not to a home remodeling project is a good return on investment.

Popular ROI Home Improvement Projects:

Garage Door Replacement – Replacing a standard 16×7 garage door with a 4-section garage door and new tracks, but using the existing motor, costs on average around $1600, but renders a ROI of nearly 89% after resale.

Entry Door Replacement – A simple front door replacement can pay for itself after resale. Replace an existing door with a new factory-finished steel door for a high return on investment up to 100% or more!

Wood Deck Installation – A larger project that renders a large return on investment. A professionally-built pressure-treated wooden deck with built-in benches, planters, railings, and stairs can cost around $12,000, but render up to 80% ROI or more after resale.

Vinyl Siding Installation – Replacing old siding with new vinyl siding and trim is proven to be a wise ROI project for property owners. The average cost of replacing 1200 square feet of siding with new vinyl and trim is $10,000 with an average ROI of 80% or more!

Does Your House or Business Need an Updated Look Before Resale?

Hire a certified Indianapolis general contractor for professional advice and renovation services you can trust. They retain the proper tools, equipment, and training to undertake any residential or commercial remodeling project.

Residential Construction Home Remodeling Contractors in Central Indiana

Call Restoration By L&B LLC at 317-454-3612 for home remodeling and commercial general contractor services in Indianapolis, Indiana. Owner and general contractor, Lee Elliot, is happy to answer all your questions about home remodel planning, prices, and process. And don’t forget; we guarantee to BEAT any prices quoted by our competition!

Safety Tips for Choosing and Using a Ladder

Home Remodeling and Repair 317-454-3612

Home Remodeling and Repair 317-454-3612

Now that spring is officially here, homeowners are already thinking about summer. “Spring cleaning” is the priority of the season right now, but pretty soon, spring cleaning will transition into summer preparation chores, namely exterior home maintenance and repair. During this time, many people will require the use of a ladder in order to access windows, tree limbs, gutters, rooftops, garage shelves, attic storage, and other high-up areas. For those who are not familiar with using ladders, it can be tricky determining which ladder to choose, and how to use it properly.

If you are in the market for a ladder to keep for home maintenance needs, it is very important to learn proper ladder knowledge. Not only will this provide protection for yourself, it will allow you to pass your knowledge of ladder safety onto friends and family who wish to borrow yours!

Continue reading to learn some helpful tips for choosing the right ladder, and using it safely.

Choosing a Ladder

Ladders come in several difference styles, sizes, weight capacities, and even material. For this reason, it is important to select the right ladder for the purpose you intend to use it for. While shopping around, you will find a wide selection of ladders; including:

• Step stools
• Step ladders
• Extension ladders
• Platform ladders
• Multi-purpose ladders
• Telescoping ladders
• Folding ladders
• And more

Each ladder provides a different range of uses. For simple, not-so-high areas, a person might choose a step stool or step ladder. For someone who needs to utilize space wisely or transport their ladder often, a folding ladder might be the right choice. And as for those who wish to have a ladder at home for exterior maintenance needs, a multi-purpose will do the trick. It can extend and change size, and can open up into a step-ladder style, making it climbable and fully self-supporting.

Ladder Safety

Once you have chosen the right ladder, it is time to review some safety tips for using it around the outside of the home. Improper use of a ladder is easy to do, and can lead to serious long-lasting injuries. So it is vital to always stay focused and remind yourself of the rules while using a ladder for work purposes. Also consider purchasing additional ladder accessories for safer utilization, including ladder stabilizers and tie-off belts. Here are some tips that will help you remain safe and supported on your ladder:

1. Set up your ladder at a 75 degree angle for full stability. TO ensure you have the proper angle, place your toes at the bottom, and extend your arms out towards the rungs. If your fingertips touch, you have the right angle.

2. Always position a ladder on a dry level surface, away from opening doors. Never set up a ladder in water, puddles, or mud. A stable surface is vital for ultimate safety.

3. Before climbing a ladder, always double-check the ladder locks and extensions to ensure they are set right.

4. Always make sure the ladder extends at least 3 feet above the working line. So if the roof-line is your working area, be sure the ladder is 3 feet above it.

5. Never use the top step of a ladder, and never stand or climb on the rear section of a ladder.

6. Focus on your balance while using your ladder, and never try to over-reach while on it. Immediately take a few steps down if you feel unstable, dizzy, or anxious. And always take the time to step down and re-position your ladder rather than trying to overreach.

7. If metal, never use your ladder near power lines or electrical equipment. A fiberglass or wood ladder is safest for areas like these.

8. Always be sure to put your ladder away as soon as you are done using it. It is very common for others to get hurt from a ladder that is not put away properly, or at all. Keep in mind that children see it as a toy, when really it poses several dangers.

If you are preparing your home’s exterior for summer, and you notice some needed repairs or renovations, trust a professional home remodeling contractor for safe, secure, and affordable service. They retain the proper tools, training, and resources to manage your home repairs professionally, and in a convenient time-frame.

Restoration By L & B, LLC

General Contractors Indianapolis IN

Indianapolis General Contractors 317-454-3612

Call Restoration By L & B, LLC at 317-454-3612 for home remodeling and handyman services in Indianapolis and its surrounding locations. Owner, Lee Elliot, and his team of experienced general contractors, provide a wide range of home renovations, restorations, remodels, and repairs at the most competitive prices in town. In fact, Restoration By L & B, LLC will BEAT any competitors price, guaranteed! Call 317-454-3612 and speak directly with a friendly and knowledgeable general contractor in Indianapolis, IN today.

Estimated Timelines for Common Home Improvements

Home Remodeling and Repair 317-454-3612

Home Remodeling and Repair 317-454-3612

When it comes to home improvement projects, one of the most common and initial inquiries, aside from budget, is time. Homeowners want, and need, to know how long a remodel or project is going to take for the sake of their personal schedules and obligations. From taking the kids to school to planning birthday parties and more, many people want their remodels done in a timely fashion to get back into their normal routine.

Continue reading to learn some average timeline estimates for popular home renovations and remodels. This can better prepare you for what to expect when it comes time to plan your next home improvement project.

Average Completion Times for:

Home Additions – 16 Weeks
New Garage – 10 Weeks
Basement Remodels – 9 Weeks*
Kitchen Remodels – 6 Weeks
Bathroom Remodels – 4 Weeks
Deck Installation – 3 Weeks
Cabinet Installation – 3 Weeks*
Rubber Roofing Installation – 2 Weeks
Asphalt Shingle Roof Installation – 1 Week

* May differ depending on certain variables explained below.

These time estimations are simply averages, and can differ depending on several variables. Hiring the right crew, weather conditions, parts delivery, and more can affect the amount of time needed to complete a home remodel or renovation. For example, the average timeline for cabinetry installation is 3 weeks, however, custom cabinets average 5 weeks for completion while cabinet re-facing or refinishing generally takes 2 weeks. Accordingly, basement remodels are always long, and can take more than 2 months depending on the size of the crew and the square footage of the space. In fact, the top 20 percent of basement remodels averages 16 weeks for completion.

The best way to ensure your remodel stays on a convenient timeline is to hire a reputable and licensed general contractor. They have the tools, resources, and know-how to effectively manage your home improvement projects in a budget that works.

Restoration By L & B, LLC

Home Repair Service 317-454-3612

Home Repair Service
317-454-3612

Call Restoration By L & B, LLC at 317-454-3612 for home remodeling in Indianapolis, Indiana. Owner Lee Elliot is a licensed general contractor that can professionally manage and facilitate your home remodeling and renovation projects. We offer a wide range of home remodeling services for basements, roofs, bathrooms, kitchens, attics, patios, and much more. Call 317-454-3612 for a free estimate for home remodeling services in Indianapolis, IN today.