At times, home renovations can seem as overwhelming as building a new home from scratch, especially when you don’t have an effective remodeling plan. But remodeling can be essential to making your home more comfortable and stylish. It’s important to approach such a major project in an organized way. This will help you to move forward confidently, and to stay within budget. Of course, things will come up, but you’ll be able to handle them more efficiently if you plan like a pro. Use the following tips to prioritize the most important aspects of your project, and reduce stress.
Your Remodeling Plan Starts With a Vision
The best remodeling plans begin with the end result in mind. The first step you need to take is to create a vision for your project. If you have a specific design in mind, you can collect drawings, sketches, or photos for reference. Identify the scope of your remodeling project. Are you looking into remodeling your kitchen or bathroom? Do you need a room addition? Or, do you want to start all over again with a whole house remodel? Then, visualize how your remodel will look like. Are you aiming to achieve a certain color palette? What materials do you need for walls, flooring, cabinets, and countertops?
After collecting your own ideas, you can work with a professional home remodeler to put all of them in one, cohesive plan.
Budgeting
This is an essential part of any remodeling plan because it ensures you don’t overspend, or run out of funds before the project is complete. Set aside a budget for the renovation and remember to include the unexpected. The budget will include materials and labor costs. Then, set aside at least 10% of that total for unexpected expenses. For example, you may change your mind and want an extra window or a different kind of material for the flooring.
Considering Your Options
Interview contractors when looking for the right home remodeling company. Besides the cost, you also need to consider experience, proper licensing, liability insurance, and payment schedules. Make sure you meet with the person who would be responsible for overseeing your project. It’s important to have good communication from the start.
Related Content: Beginner’s Guide to Starting a Home Remodeling Project
Creating a Timeline
Your remodeling plan should never lack a timeline, especially when working with a contractor you aren’t familiar with from past jobs. Choose a realistic date you would like the project completed by, and come to an agreement before any work is started. This step helps to prevent frustration for everyone involved. It’s also important to remember that the duration of the project depends on the availability of materials and employees.
Waste Removal
Waste removal is an essential consideration for your remodeling plan, especially if it’s a large-scale project. Most contractors clean up after themselves, but you should still ask beforehand in order to avoid misunderstandings.
Your Remodeling Plan
If you’re not sure where to start, Total Home Remodeling can help. We’re an award-winning remodeling company, and we were named one of the top 50 remodelers of 2015 in Remodeling Magazine. Read our testimonials online, or call us at (913) 270-8570 for an estimate.