Many home remodeling projects begin simply because people need more space. Maybe you’ve outgrown your current home or the layout just doesn’t work anymore. Maybe you’ve shopped for a new, larger home but haven’t found what you’re looking for. Whatever the reason is for your whole-home remodel, the best place to start is with a plan.
Create a Detailed Home Improvement Project Plan
You’ve watched all the home improvement shows, you’ve visited dozens of model homes and pinned plenty of ideas on Pinterest. Hang on to those inspirational ideas because you’re going to need them as reference. Now it’s time to turn those ideas into an actual plan that clearly states your goal for this renovation project.
Your plan should also include:
- Sketches or blueprints of the finished project
- List of needs and wants (budget pending)
- Project steps (indicate which are DIY and which require a professional)
Start creating your plan about 6 to 12 months before you wish to actually begin the project. Use this time to research. Start shopping for licensed home improvement contractors and look into local zoning regulations and permitting requirements. Check on building restrictions within your neighborhood or housing development. Hold off on applying for permits until you’ve hired a contractor.
Set A Realistic Project Budget
This is an important step because your budget and financing options will determine exactly what you can and cannot afford. Your budget should include the costs for permits, building materials, labor, decorations, furniture and finishing touches.
To build your budget:
- Decide on how much you’re willing to spend and secure financing.
- Request estimates from several professionals
- Price out all materials and furnishings
Give yourself approximately 3 to 6 months to get contractor quotes and finalize your financing. After calculating all of the costs, you can decide if your budget allows for splurging or penny-pinching. Don’t forget to allot approximately 10-20% of your budget to cover any unforeseen expenses.
Hire the Right Contractor for Your Remodel
Unless you have an excess amount of time and carpentry skills, your home remodeling project will require an experienced team. Don’t base your choice of contractor on the price alone.
Consider these factors when interviewing your potential contractor:
- Years of experience – A company or contractor that has been around for a while is usually a more reliable option than the new guy on the block
- Licensing – Check to make sure your contractor of choice has all the state and local certifications required for the type of work you are hiring them for
- Insurance – Verify that the contractor is carrying workers’ compensation and liability insurance
- References – Ask for references and contact them yourself to get a better idea of who you are hiring (If they refuse, there’s a reason and you probably shouldn’t hire them)
- Payment schedule – Reputable contractors won’t request payment in full upfront. It’s important to discuss payment terms before beginning construction so there’s no surprises or misunderstandings once work is underway.
Allow for about 2 to 3 months prior to the start date to confirm your choice of contractor and get your project on their schedule. Make sure that everything you and the contractor discuss and agree on is in a written contract. If you are unsure about anything, ask for clarification. If you still feel uneasy about the contractor you chose, find another one that you feel you can trust.
Create a Project Timeline
About 2 to 3 months before your project is scheduled to begin, you should have your budget set and your contractor hired. Choose your start date and confirm it with your contractor. Working with the contractor, figure out how long the whole house remodel should take and build your timeline backwards from there. They will be able to tell you what steps need to be completed first and how long each should take.
Make sure your timeline includes:
- Time to clean out the project area
- Time for delivery of materials
- Contractor days off (such as holidays)
If you have a specific date that your project must be completed by, make sure you build in an extra few days ‘just incase’. Make sure your contractor agrees to the timeline and that it doesn’t accrue additional costs.
Prepare Your Family & Home for Construction
A few months prior to your start date, you’ll have to start preparation. Check with your contractor to see if you can live in your home during construction. If so, you may need to make a temporary kitchen area or make new sleeping arrangements.Some or all furniture and belongings may need to be stored especially if you have to move out during renovations. Give yourself about a week or 2 if you have to pack if you have to move out short term.
Tips for Planning Your Home Remodeling Project
Don’t hesitate to ask your contractor for their professional guidance during the planning stages. They are familiar with budgets, costs and options. Stick to your plan and budget as much as possible. It’s easy to get excited about a more expensive product or service but unless there is a legitimate reason to increase your spending, stick to your previously set spending limits.
Plan to encounter problems during the home remodeling process. Be prepared for delays, issues and unexpected costs. Do your best to not stress out or overspend trying to resolve these issues. Prior to construction, decide if you or the contractor will be responsible for the demolition debris so you don’t get stuck with it after the fact. This should be included in your budget.
Without a detailed plan, your remodeling project can go over budget and off the rails in a blink of an eye. Open communication with your contractor and sticking to your budget and timeline should make this home improvement project run smoothly and quickly. You’ll be enjoying your dream home before you know it.