If you are planning to sell your home in Alberta, you’re likely thinking about how to make it more attractive to potential buyers. Renovations can be a great way to increase your home’s value, but they can also be a major headache if not done correctly. Before making changes, you must understand your renovation rights and responsibilities to avoid costly mistakes that could derail your sale.
Mistakes in deciding what to renovate
When renovating for a sale, not all projects are created equal. Some upgrades can boost your home’s value, while others can have no impact. Worse, they could make your home more difficult to sell. For instance, overly personalized or luxury renovations might not give you the return on investment you’re hoping for.
On the other hand, addressing defective or dangerous property conditions, such as faulty wiring or structural issues, is crucial. These problems can deter buyers and lead to legal liabilities if you do not address them adequately.
Mistakes in completing renovations
Once you’ve decided on the renovations you want, completing them correctly is crucial to prevent costly missteps and delays. You can avoid significant setbacks by:
- Obtaining the necessary permits
- Hiring reputable contractors
- Ensuring the work is done to code.
Failure to take these precautions can lead to costly rework, fines or even legal disputes.
Mistakes in permissions
Before you start any work, be sure you’re allowed to do it. To check permissions, you can do the following:
- Check zoning laws: Some areas have strict rules about what changes you can make.
- Review HOA regulations: If you’re part of a homeowner association (HOA), review their guidelines.
- Determine if you have a heritage property: Special rules apply if your home is historically significant, so check the local municipal register to research your property.
Ignoring these rules can lead to fines, forced removal of renovations or legal troubles down the line.
Protecting your investment
Renovation mistakes can complicate your home sale and lead to expensive legal battles with buyers, contractors and others. Avoid these errors by planning wisely and adhering to local rules. This approach protects your investment and paves the way for a successful sale.
