Don’t wait to renovate – this is the new normal

By Steve Barkhouse

The COVID-19 pandemic has turned many things in our world upside down, and the renovation industry is no exception. Almost two years in, we are experiencing a new normal that leaves many homeowners wondering whether they should proceed with a renovation or addition now or hold off.

It’s a question I get a lot. The short answer is: Don’t wait. Things will not go back to the way they were.

But, of course, there’s also a longer answer.

The upheaval in the early days of the pandemic has subsided, to a degree. The worldwide shutdown that led to crippling shortages, soaring prices and a mad scramble by homeowners to create better spaces in homes they were confined to much more has eased. And the most recent round of COVID restrictions has had minimal effect on the ability of the renovation industry to operate, particularly for those already following strong safety protocols.

But things have changed. Prices have stabilized but at a higher level; manufacturing is slowly getting caught up, but there are still delays; continued demand means renovators remain busy; and timelines to complete projects have also stabilized but are longer than they were. Cabinets, for instance, once took four to six weeks to be delivered; they are now taking twice that time.

Several indicators and forecasts predict a renovation trend that remains high for the foreseeable future. In a quarterly survey from Harvard University, for instance, a 9 per cent growth in annual home improvement and repair spending in each quarter is expected until the end of the year.

That means if you’re looking to renovate, there is no benefit in waiting. The new normal means you need to look for a renovator who has a track record of planning and being organized so they can order ahead, stockpile materials and keep your project from dragging on unnecessarily.

Is it realistic to hope to get a renovation done this year?

Yes, depending on what the reno is. If you’re looking at a whole-home remodel that would take eight months, don’t expect it to get started in the next three months. But if you want to do a small to medium-sized project, it could certainly be done by the end of the year. The key is to start looking for your renovator right away.

A caution: when there’s high demand, people take risks that they should not. Don’t panic and think you have to compromise on who you choose, jumping on the first contractor who calls you back. Do your due diligence. All good renovators won’t be scared away by you asking questions and qualifying them. And if it means delaying your start to get your ideal renovator, so be it.

Key tips for Glebe homeowners

Glebe homes are a special breed, typically built as one-offs with varying levels of quality. It’s crucial to work with a renovator who has experience with Glebe homes – and there are several in Ottawa. A good place to start is with the RenoMark renovators listed at gohba.ca/renovators.

• Look for someone who has experience with your type of project. Don’t hire a basement contractor if you want to add a third floor.
• If you are doing a basement, find a contractor who understands Glebe foundations, water tables, moisture and mould.
• You want someone familiar with the homes and the homeowners. Many Glebites prefer companies they’ve already seen in the neighbourhood who preserve the community. The Glebe really is like a small village. Coming from rural Ottawa, I was shocked when I lived in the Glebe at how comfortable I felt.
• Find someone with experience in the crooked and unplumbed finishing that will be required for the new work to match the old.
• And it’s invaluable working with someone who has a deep knowledge of area zoning, setbacks, height restrictions and what might be grandfathered in the Glebe.

All of that lends itself to design-build, which takes a project from concept to completion seamlessly and efficiently, particularly in a neighbourhood like the Glebe, where unexpected issues are common. But whatever option you choose, be thorough in your research to find the right renovator for you. And don’t wait – the new normal will be with us for some time.

Steve Barkhouse is the owner of Amsted Design-Build, a renovation and custom home building company serving Ottawa residents for 30 years, and the Greater Ottawa Home Builders’ Association’s Renovator of the Year. Its Glebe office is at 681 Bronson Avenue.