By Molly Congdon
People’s homes are full of precious moments and memories that people like to preserve.
Many people want to stay in the same place but there are changes that must be made to make it possible. Many people remodel for accessibility, gravitating toward open designs.
People also give their homes a face lift to increase resale value or because they want to make their living situation more enjoyable. Instead of moving forward with new construction, some prefer to renovate.
“Since the big banks mortgage collapse, I believe more than ever that people are leaning toward renovating their homes and protecting the investment that they already have,” said Dan Camarota, owner of Custom Renovations in Saratoga Springs. “Upgrading their existing home into a dream kitchen or mini spa or a family room basement is much more affordable then taking the chance with a new, higher mortgage for their ‘dream home.’ They are already invested right where they are, so they make it as comfortable as possible for much less than buying a new home.”
The market in Saratoga and Glens Falls is a hot market, said Greg Raczkowski, owner of Inspired Designs. “I think because of the recession a lot of people are a little gun shy to buy new. Back before the recession, interest rates were so low, when people wanted to renovate or remodel they would just say, ‘Well, why don’t we just sell our home and buy a new house.’ It was an easy transition and it made sense at the time.”