A front page article in the Marin Independent Journal recently touted a 6.5% increase in the assessed value of property in Marin County. With property values increasing, it might seem like an odd time to think about a renovation project to improve your property value. However, increased property values can mean increased equity in your home. It could also mean that it’s time for that renovation project you’ve always wanted but didn’t feel you could afford.
Most of us know at least a few individuals or families that moved into a house with the idea of fixing it up when they could afford to make the changes. Instead, they lived in it for years and only did the renovations just prior to moving somewhere else, on the advice of their real estate agent. Once the renovations were completed, they almost decided to stay, because the house was finally the way they’d always imagined it, except they’d outgrown it.
If you’ve always dreamed of modernizing your living space, now could be a good time. An architect can help you to find the best renovation options for your particular space. If you are looking for someone to guide the process and give you advice based on years of experience, an architect is a good place to start.
What to look for in an architect
Architects bring an array of skills to a project:
- Excellent design skills
You’ll want to see examples of an architect’s work through a varied portfolio of projects that reveal their design skills.
- Creativity
You’ll be able to see for yourself their design ability and creativity. There are a variety of ways to make more space out of less, if you know how. An architect skilled at three-dimensional visualization can create amazing ways to re-envision cramped, ineffective uses of space.
- Ability to listen honestly
Whether you are an individual who wants someone to come in and tell you what can be done with your living space, or you have strong ideas of your own, an architect who listens is key. Equally important is one who listens, evaluates ideas and sets realistic limits on what can and cannot be accomplished in a given space.
- Awareness of local building codes and regulations
Once design ideas begin to take shape, an architect familiar with local codes and regulations can save homeowners time and energy. They know which permits need to be pulled for different types of renovations, and what might not be allowed at all. As an example, accessory dwelling units (ADUs) were tightly restricted in most municipalities in California. SB 9, dubbed the California HOME (Housing Opportunity & More Efficiency) Act, radically changed that when it became law in January 2022, overriding local zoning laws. Now, ADUs are being encouraged rather than restricted.
- Communication and advocacy skills
Strong communications skills are essential when sharing a project vision. An architect needs to be able to convey complex design aspects in a way that allows a homeowner to visualize them, even before the drawings begin. Clients also need to feel comfortable to express their questions and concerns in an atmosphere that promotes openness. As a project develops, an architect may also play the role of advocate for the homeowner, as other team members, like a contractor, are brought in. Keeping a healthy line of communication from the beginning to the end of a project makes everyone’s life easier.
If you are wondering what the renovation options might be for your home, in light of the increased equity of the past few years, we’d love to explore the possibilities.
A version of this post ran in 2022.