You Pay Less for Remodel Supplies
All of us want to save more cash, especially for big-ticket purchases like Remodel Supplies our basements or purchasing new kitchen appliances. For tips on finding bargains beyond the standard coupon, promo-code and credit-card deal, we surveyed insiders like contractors, designers, retailers and thrifty homeowners. Continue reading to learn their tips on how to save money on everything, including drywall and dishwashers.
Mom-and-Pop Shop
Since chains are often restricted by their ability to lower the corporate sale price, discounts can be more easily controlled by independents. Borderland Hardware co-owner in Mercedes Texas is Ken Eilers. He says that asking the person at the top (such as the store manager, or the owner) will get you a discount on expensive power tools. “It shows that your serious about purchasing something.” Eilers states that in most cases it is reasonable to ask for 10% to 15% off. A respectful conversation is the key to a successful negotiation.
Purchase a Package Deal
Consider buying a suite of kitchen appliances or bathroom fixtures from one store rather than shopping at different stores, even if the prices are higher. Allan Schuster is the sales manager at Gringer and Sons in New York City. He says that bundles make it easier to buy more. A larger order will guarantee a lower cost, and may include free delivery or extended services. “I’ve given away microwave ovens, if necessary to close a deal,” says he.
Get into the Back Room
As we all know, scratch-and dents appliances are more affordable. However, furniture such as sofas and dining sets and rugs at big-box stores and independent shops are cheaper. It’s possible for the blemish to not be visible or can be easily repaired. Janice Simonsen from IKEA says, “The products in our As-Is department are mainly taken from room displays so you can almost find anything in the store.” “Discounted furniture regularly comes in and goes out.” You may also find an area that allows you to return custom curtains or items that have not met your expectations.
Reuse Centers Offers New Opportunities
These house-part recycling centers, which are not for profit, offer more than just a place to store used items. They also sell new products, like bathroom sinks and kitchen cabinets. It works like this: In exchange for a tax deduction, builders and designers give their surplus job-site material. Some showrooms even donate display models. These models are then sold to the general public at an affordable rate. Make sure to check your calendar for the best selection. Steve Feldman is the founder of Green Demolitions. The reuse center in Fairfield New Jersey. When renovations are at their peak, there is more turnover in May and October. It’s a good time to go back to your local store if you are looking for something particular.
Prepay and Plan Ahead
If you plan your DIY project from start to finish, you will save money. You might have to choose paint before you can hang drywall if you’re finishing your basement. The best ways to give contractors an edge at the home centre are planning and bulk purchasing. Brian Siegrist of Siegrist Construction in Overland Park says that you can get up to 20 percent off your entire order by going through the Pro Desk. You don’t even have to pick-up all your materials during purchase.
Do More Legwork
Even if your decision has been made, you can negotiate by researching prices elsewhere for the same product before making a commitment. Bari Nan Rothchild from Park City, Utah says, “When we renovated our kitchen, we priced out cabinets at all of the big stores. Then I spoke to my builder who told me he could do exactly what we wanted with higher quality materials for less money.” A price match is possible at most.
Keep up with the trends
There are many fads that affect the prices of finishing materials such as wallpaper, tile, carpet, and fabric. Mark Clement, a Philadelphia contractor who hosts the MyFixItUpLife radio program, says, “I often see stacks and stacks tiles that are beautiful but they’re on cheap because there have been shifts in color trends.” But if the wallpaper is simple or has an earthy tones, it’s still a solid choice. However, neon brights and large prints can become outdated and may not last as long.
Offer to do your assembly
Sometimes you can get a discount on products that are usually sold assembled if you’re willing to do some work. This includes outdoor furniture, fountains or grills as well as lawn equipment. Borderland Hardware’s Ken Eilers said, “If you have an assembled mower on your floor, I might give $20 off if it’s taken from a box in my back that I haven’t put together yet.”
Act like a professional
DIYers often only need to ask for a trade discount to save 10 to 20% on supplies. This discount is usually only available to contractors or designers who have credentials like a professional license, or a number for resale tax identification. It’s sometimes extended to valued customers. Ask if you can use the business information of a previous pro if they have worked together before. Siegrist: “I have clients that want to do small painting projects themselves. I tell them to use me at the local paint shop and the clerk will give my discount. It’s a gesture of goodwill and doesn’t cost anything.
For leftovers, negotiate
Ask your neighbor if she would sell you any additional materials at a reduced price after the work is finished. You could save the homeowner the hassle of having to return the items or pay someone else to dispose of them. The last box of white subways will suffice for small jobs such as refinishing a kitchen backsplash. It depends on the contract, but the homeowner might be responsible for the materials. Ask the homeowner to let you know if you are allowed to work with her contractor. Bake cookies once you’ve been granted permission. Siegrist states, “If it’s up for me, I might even offer materials for free.” “Later it could be back as a benefit since they might call me for their next project.”
Additional Resource:
https://www.architecturaldigest.com/home-renovation-guide
https://www.thisoldhouse.com/cabinets/21018036/21-ways-to-save-on-your-house-remodel
https://www.thespruce.com/best-home-remodeling-ideas-4685451
