10 Tips to Planning a Home Renovation Project
A major home renovation is just that, major! It is a huge undertaking with many different pieces to consider, from how to survive in your home while renovations are underway to finding the perfect contractor. With so many things to plan, we have gathered up some of the best tips for the period of renovation in your living space.
In this article, we will discuss ten useful tips to plan a major home renovation project.
- Draw Up a Renovation Wishlist
Before you start renovations on your home, it is vital to consider exactly what you wish to do to gauge how extensive the home renovation will be. Think of what the goal of your renovation is. Sketch out the vision you have while deciding your renovation needs and wants. You should take this period to research your neighborhood to determine what projects would be a good return on investment and which ones might be less valuable to you in the long run. When you make your list, prioritize your needs over your wants. Having a list that is detailed of your desires and what might make the most impact on your life at home will make it all the easier to decide how to allocate your money, as well as how to best move forward in case surprises should pop up.
- Plan a Renovation Budget
Setting up a budget and sticking to it is going to be a key factor in a large renovation process. It is always best practice to set aside a contingency fund for unexpected costs or unplanned repairs and expect to use it. Plan on the indirect renovation cost that might arise during the renovation, like dining out or staying in at paint dries. When working with a contractor, they might have a system for keeping costs and changes to expenses hotel for a few nights while we are in line with their estimates.
- Do Research
When you prepare for a large home renovation, it is important to know what you are getting yourself into if it is your first time. Talk with family and friends who have completed renovations in the past and see how they overcame certain unplanned obstacles. Read up on practices and tips for going through a renovation. The contractor you choose should be a trusted resource, but it is best to have a solid grasp on the ins and outs of the renovation. The contractor you choose should be a great resource, but it is best to have a solid grasp on the ins and outs of the renovation process.
- Hire a Trusted Contractor
Speaking of contractors, the first tip should be to find a qualified one that will bring your vision to life. However, we know this usually occurs to homeowners after they’ve dreamed of the endless possibilities. A great contractor can offer some possibilities that you may not have even considered. During the selection process, check out reviews and see if past clients are willing to talk with you about the service they got. Schedule a consultation to discuss your project and ask your contractor questions. Your contractor will be your partner in the process and will know the best ways to achieve what you want while staying within budget.
- Read Up on Permitting and Neighborhood Bylaws
Once you have settled on your renovation team, it is time to delve deeper into your full scope of work. There might be ordinances from the neighborhood HOA associated with home additions, lot lines, and more that can alter your original plans. As the homeowner, you can research if these exist and share that information with your contractor. However, when you work with a contractor, they should handle the process of obtaining the proper building permits in your area.
- Know Your Timeline
When you are planning the timeline of your renovation, take into consideration any upcoming holidays and events that you would like your home to be ready for. It is best to set your end date and plan backward, stay realistic, and plan for extra time, if possible, in the case of delays or additional repairs. Your contractor can be useful in guiding you on how the season can affect or delay building plans.
- Declutter and Pack Up
This can sound too simple, but packing your things up and decluttering your renovation zone is one of the most important tips. Not only does it protect your possessions from being damaged, but your renovation team can do their work far more quickly and efficiently without your personal items in the way. For a renovation spanning your entire home, consider renting an offsite storage unit to keep your items safe and out of the way.
- Protect Pets and Kids
An important factor when renovating your house is to think about your children and pets. A renovation can be intriguing for your kids who want to get in and play and watch; it can be very dangerous. Ensure that there are childproof gates installed to keep adventurous toddlers from roaming through a construction site, and the same goes for pets. Consider getting a pet sitter for longer projects to ensure your furry family members are safe.
- Don’t Focus on Trends
It is easy to get distracted by the latest trends. While it is great to gather inspiration from trendy design ideas, they might not stand the test of time. When it comes to a home renovation, you should ensure you will love the finished product for a long time, so it is wise to choose timeless designs and decorate with of-the-moment decor that you can update as the times change.
- Plan for Life Changes During Renovating
Are you planning on staying at your home while the renovation takes place, or will you stay at a hotel? Your timeline and cost are big factors when making this decision. Many homeowners opt to stay at home if they can. However, it can be a difficult time to get through. Renovations are often uncomfortable, leaving you with dust, loud noises, and more to deal with in your home. Consider your routine and work with your contractor on the best time to undergo certain tasks for a smooth transition.
Conclusion
Renovating a home is no small task and can often come with unexpected burdens that can cause delays and frustrations. Luckily for you, some expert contractors can provide aid to you when things become too overwhelming. From making a list, budgeting properly, doing adequate research, knowing your timeline, and planning accordingly, you will be in your newly renovated home of your dreams in no time!
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