January 2024- The New Year and Remodeling

Remodeling into 2024 

Happy New Year! 

As we head into a new year, I wanted to share my thoughts on remodeling homes in the local area. 

In spite of higher interest rates 2023 was a very busy year. While demand was low early in the year, it increased as the months progressed. We enjoyed a myriad of wonderful projects from bathrooms, kitchens and large additions.  

  Our Projects included a wonderful Primary Bath and Powder room in Historic Frederick, a large Deck and Bluestone Patio in New Market. We added an entire second level and remodeled the existing level in Silver Spring, we converted a garage into a Music Room, we added a spacious Entry and Laundry Mud Room in Rockville. Just complete is a whole house remodel including a 2-story addition in Sabillasville and we are currently finishing two additions on a home in Columbia. There are a few other projects not mentioned, we had a busy productive year! 

Traditionally when rates are higher and demand is lower the professional companies that do great work stay active and busy and many of the smaller, less dependable and professional outfits perish. This has been true most of my remodeling life. Heading into 2024 the expectation is for the economy to remain growing and rates to further decline, this means more folks will be planning home remodeling projects.  

If you are thinking about a remodel, I suggest you plan ahead and begin the process a minimum of 3-4 months before you plan to start, particularly if there is design involved. A project that requires design, engineering and permits could take 8-10 weeks just to get the permit. All local counties and townships ask us to obtain permits through an online portal. This has become increasingly challenging as they often change things. Last year 2 counties changed to a new portal for budgetary reasons and the last permit applied for took almost 7 weeks to obtain. You will also need time to interview your contractor and determine the fit, this could take 3-4 weeks if you speak with 2-4 companies. Please beware of someone coming in well below the other pricing the may gather, this is often a red flag! 

In summary, plan ahead, 2024 looks to be a busy year for remodeling here in Maryland and timing is everything. We are already scheduling Spring work! 

Please contact us if you have any questions about any of the info above. 

Have a great month!