Renovating Your Condo In a Major City

Remodeling your home gives it a new life, raises its value, and updates it to the current trends that are happening at the time. However, doing this in the middle of a major metropolitan area can be a huge challenge. Working around traffic outside the building, arranging enough parking for everyone, and appeasing your neighbors are a few steps you must add to your project details. Here are a few tips for renovating your condo in a major city. 

Arrange the Right Equipment

When you remodel your home in the middle of a metropolitan area, you must be aware of the machinery

that is needed to do the work. The issue, however, is that you have limited space to store the trucks, dumpsters, rigging services chicago, and other items required by the construction companies. Talk with your contractor about what to expect when the crews arrive to do the work. Ask where they suggest parking should be and who you should reach out to reserve spots next to the structure. Discuss what is happening with your HOA and get their opinion on it. Understand that, even though you desire this change in your structure, it may be less than feasible for others. If the city or your homeowner’s association is against it, or it could become a hazard for others, you may have to come up with another plan to renovate your space.

Have a Conversation With Your Neighbors

Construction in such close quarters can be a bother to anyone living there. It can be even more difficult when the project can limit resources, such as parking, green space, and walking room. Before you get started, talk with each of your neighbors and let them know what you are planning to do. Acknowledge their concerns and take them to heart as you proceed. Keep them apprised of the schedules and any changes that might happen to it, especially if your neighbor is affected in any way. Instruct the crews that you contract to respect your neighbors and what belongs to them. Police the workers and be a buffer between them and those who live near you. Finally, remember the concessions that these homeowners made when the time comes that they want to redesign their space. Be accommodating to them as they were for you. 

Talk With Your HOA

There are certain rules that you agree to when you apply and are accepted into a homeowner’s association. When you plan your remodel, you must adhere to these regulations throughout the process. Have a meeting with the head of the organization and explain to them what you would like to do. They will provide a list to you of what you can change and what must be left alone. If what you wish to work on is noted by the HOA as something that must be left alone, then you should find a different way to make the improvements that you desire. This group may also have recommendations or restrictions about where equipment may be parked as well as where contractors can keep their vehicles. Make as many notes as you can concerning their thoughts on your project. You must strictly follow them to ensure your status within the development stays intact. 

Find Temporary Parking

Living in a large city means that you have limited places to keep your vehicle. When you are hosting multiple construction crews, along with large pieces of machinery, there is even less space for you and your neighbors. Collaborate with your contractor to see what equipment needs to be closer to your home, which can be further away, and what days they must be there. Stress to them that it is important that they inform you of any date adjustments as they occur. Research for any parking lots or structures near you and consider renting a few spaces for the workers who will be completing your remodel. Remind them continually that they are to leave their cars there instead of taking spots reserved for residents or guests of the community. Staying vigilant of these, as well as communicating with everyone, will get the job done and leave everyone happy. 

Apply For the Correct Permits 

Like many building projects, you will need to get permits for the renovations that you are making. However, when you are changing things in your metropolitan condo, there are even more permissions to obtain before you proceed. Talk with your HOA to determine what they must sign off on as far as your covenant with them is concerned. Contact your contractor to see if you will need to talk to the street department to shut down parking spots or the road for the machinery being brought in. Whatever you intend to do, act immediately. Some of the documentation can take weeks to complete and can be very expensive. You will need to add the cost of these applications to your final budget to be sure that you can afford them. 

Understand the Challenge Of Your Requests

You have shopped for the accessories that you want to make your house perfect. While you are having your space remodeled, you intend to have those working on the construction install them for you. However, before you ask them to do this, analyze the task you are asking them to undertake. While some may be simple, other jobs could be virtually impossible for them to complete. It could take too much effort for them to accomplish. The more difficult the assignment, the more expensive it will be for you to pay for.

Collaborate with your contractor on getting a bid for these projects then determine if you can afford to pay for these services. Updating your condo in the big city gives you a fresh look at the space around you, but the process comes with its challenges. Knowing what you can change, where equipment can be, and what additions are able to be implemented by your remodelers will keep everyone content and your project moving at the right pace.