Planning a home renovation can be overwhelming, especially if you haven’t completed one before. These tips will help you make a detailed plan, keep you stress-free, help you stick to a budget, and finish on time.
Make a Detailed Home Improvement Plan
Create a plan that clearly states the goals for your renovation. This plan should also include your design inspiration and an outline of the work that needs to be completed.
Your project plan must have:
Blueprints or sketches of your desired project
List of needs and wants
Notes of DIY jobs & tasks that will require a professional
Set a Project Budget
When planning a home renovation, create a budget that covers the costs of permits, building materials, labor, and decoration expenses. If your cost estimates don’t fit your budget, use your home improvement plan from step one to eliminate elements that are a lower priority. You should set aside 10% of your budget for unexpected expenses.
Hire Contractors
Next, you’ll need to assemble your team. Don’t choose your contractors simply because they offer the lowest price. When picking and interviewing contractors, also consider:
Years of experience
Certificate of insurance
References
Payment schedule
Build a Timeline
After you’ve determined your budget and put together your team of contractors, it’s time to make a timeline. Start by choosing a date you’d like to begin your remodeling project. If you need to have it completed by a specific date in the future, work backward from that date instead. Discuss the length of time each portion of the project will take with your contractors so you can plan accordingly. Make sure to discuss which parts of the job must be completed first, how long they will take, and which portions can be done concurrently.
Pack and Prepare for Your Renovation
Now that your home project is approaching the finish line, it’s time to clear out and make some space. Whether or not you want to live in your new home during construction depends on what work is done. Set up a temporary place to cook and eat if you plan on staying home during kitchen renovations. If you’re renovating the master bedroom, plan by making sleeping arrangements.
