Tiffani Von Alvensleben
Renovating a home can be a daunting task, acknowledges Tiffani Von Alvensleben, especially when a homeowner is working within a strict budget. Just because the budget is limited, however, does not mean the choices are. According to Tiffani Von Alvensleben, it is possible to stick to a budget and still achieve a beautiful renovation with style and substance.
Sacramento-based Tiffani Von Alvensleben knows just how to do it. She has been renovating homes on a budget for two decades. Her firm, TKL Home Designs, LLC, offers tips and hints for dream renovations on a budget.
“Figure out what you have to spend first,” suggests Tiffani Von Alvensleben. “Once a budget is determined, begin shopping for the things you’ll need.” Another tip for staying within budget is to acknowledge that rarely does a project finish within budget and plan for that as well–before you begin, adds Tiffani Von Alvensleben. Prices go up, hardware becomes obsolete and choices sometimes are limited.
Doing your homework, says Tiffani Von Alvensleben, is essential. Scout around for the lowest prices on the style and brand of merchandise you have selected. While many bargain hunters begin and end their research online, Tiffani Von Alvensleben suggests going even further. “Don’t stop with online research. Check out sales flyers from local stores and call friends for referrals.” Finding the right piece at the right price sometimes takes a little digging, points out Tiffani Von Alvensleben.
Planning is another important facet of renovating on a budget, according to Tiffani Von Alvensleben. Start early. Planning a renovation takes longer than most people think. A “quickie” planning job often leads to mistakes later. Homeowners may change their minds about design plans and a myriad of extraneous factors can affect the renovation. Suggests Tiffani Von Alvensleben, start planning early to ensure time for contractor delays and changes along the way.
Tiffani Von Alvensleben also recommends placing the largest part of a home renovation budget in the kitchen. According to Tiffani Von Alvensleben, the kitchen is no place to scrimp. It has long been said that the kitchen is the heart of a home. While that may be true, it is also the biggest factor in a home’s resale factor and should be treated as such.
Tiffani Von Alvensleben suggests hunting for name brand, reputable appliances that have minor scratches and small dings. Kitchen appliances are used every day, several times. They have to be durable and dependable for the long haul, but also stylish and fit into a specified décor. According to Tiffani Von Alvensleben, big name appliances can be found at drastically reduced prices with only small, barely noticeable flaws that keep them off showroom floors.
Refinishing the old cabinets is another budgeting tip from Tiffani Von Alvensleben. She says that the savings over new cabinets can be considerable. And while new cabinets can cost in the thousands–or much more–refinishing old ones takes mostly time and patience.
Tiffani Von Alvensleben is an entrepreneur, businesswoman, and home renovation expert. She is the co-founder of TKL Home Designs, LLC, and the cofounder of Von Alvensleben Vesting, Inc., where she currently serves as the CEO.
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