Kelly's Korner - Resolutions

Hey, All,

The holidays are over and a new year faces us.  I know many people who make resolutions to do something different or better in the coming year but few do.

If one of your resolutions involves home improvements, I have several hints that might make it a bit easier.

First of all, get all your ducks in a row.  Have every step of the project planned.  This may include a project book with samples, pictures of all the stuff you want (light fixtures, window treatments, door handles, light and electric plates, countertops, cabinets, flooring, etc.) pictures of what you want your end project to look like, costs, contractors bids, timetables and research.

Creative Commons license on image.

Research?  If your project includes new appliances, research is a must.  Don't just go with how an appliance looks, ask yourself these questions:

1.  Do I need all the bells and whistles (features) that this appliance offers?
2.  What is the dependability of the brand I'm looking at?
3.  Do servicers in my area even work on this brand?
4.  What about the outside surfaces?  Are they easy to keep nice and shiny or is every fingerprint going to show?
5.  Is the appliance going to fit in the spot you have for it?

The last one is something that many people run into - yes, the refrigerator may fit into the space but can you open the doors?  If needed, can the door swing be reversed?  It is annoying to have all your working space on the right side of the fridge, but if the door swings the other way you almost have to walk around it to get what you need out of it.

Talk to people - call your favorite repair tech and get their opinions.  Don't let some slick talking salesperson talk you into something you don't need or want - they mostly are just concerned with their commissions.  Go online and peruse Consumer Reports and other research companies.  Talk to friends and family.  It's like buying a car - that little sports job sure would make you look cool but is it what you really need?

I really need to redo my kitchen and have been slowly building my project book - combing through websites and magazines to find the perfect look.  I'm going to have to live with my decisions for a long time so I need to make the right choices.  Make sure you can live with yours!

Have a great week!