Spring is the season for change. It’s also the season when we start planning our home remodeling projects for summer. What better way to celebrate National Home Improvement Month than by outlining the steps to turn your home renovation dreams into reality? If the budget or vision is stopping you from leaning into the project, these steps can give you a better idea on how to wisely move ahead of your hesitation.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you take the leap and get that new addition, bathroom, kitchen, living room (or whatever project you’ve been dreaming about) completed:
1. Research and Budget
Before discouraging yourself about what’s possible, you need to put in the time to research. There may be opportunities you hadn’t even considered. Ask yourself some questions: What part of the house do you want to remodel? What do you already have to work with? What overreached vision do you have for the final project? Also, think farther down the line. It’s key to know how the renovation will affect the value of your home. Certain additions can make your house harder to sell or rent, such as a pool.
Ensure the vision is clear from the start; something you plan to stick to. The biggest mistake we often see is the vision becomes more defined as the project progresses, which often leads to unnecessary added expenses: buying more materials that were not covered in the original list, hiring more specialized (expensive) labor to make it work, etc. See what’s possible in your price range by finding out the actual costs for material and labor ahead of time.
There are several tools out there that can help you map out your project before making engagements — allowing you to fully scope your unique project, get estimates, discover the return investment, and learn the time it will require to complete.
2. Finding the Budget and Setting It
If you need help financing your home improvement project, there are many options out there. Considering a home equity loan can be a good idea if you want to reinvest your assets. If you need less than a few thousand dollars, consider using a credit card. There are many cards with zero introductory rates that don’t accrue interest for at least a year. Be realistic in budgeting and arrange your finances accordingly. Include everything in your budget, including products, contingencies and service.
3. Choose the Right Contractor
After you’ve mapped out your project, it’s time to find the right contractor. This can be a very stressful process, especially if it’s your first time. Personal referrals are great, but can sometimes cause a strain on your personal relationship if the project doesn’t go as planned. Also, you hire through your personal connections, it limits your selection. Often, the most affordable contractor is far away from you, but not too far for a daily drive. Check if you have professionals within a 50 to a hundred mile radius who have a decent amount of permits that you can verify, in order to expand the field of competition and get the best deal.
Before hiring a contractor, make sure you check that they have the proper licenses and ask for permits/references. A lot of their credibility can be evaluated by checking their digital reputation.
Be mindful that many of the sites around allow contractors pay to “look good.” Do your due diligence and make sure you pick the right person with the right background, regardless of how presentable their profile and pictures look on the internet.
4. Time It
Time is money, especially when it comes to remodeling. Make sure all of your materials are on time and onsite way ahead of the big day. Material delays will set you back greatly. A common mistake home renovators make is to order materials last minute, setting back delivery dates and pushing the entire project’s timeline. Delays are often caused because homeowners forget that some products need a long lead time, such as windows.
Make sure you communicate your detailed plan and schedule. For example, a kitchen can have at least 35 tasks that needs careful scheduling to avoid miscommunications and manage expectations. Establish constant, open communication throughout the project for timeliness and results. Mastering complexity is the key and using the right tools that can help you do that.
5. Map it Out
Make a list of all the questions you want answered (the remodeling process, schedules, etc.) and review your plan with your contractor. Then, review your contract word for word. Pay close attention to details like payment, timeline and additional fees to ensure all grounds are covered. Articulating your vision is essential. Understand that your contractor can’t read your mind, so have visuals prepared to share with him/her — but, keep in mind, your contractor can’t just recreate a photo you pulled off of Pinterest. Keep your vision in line with how they can make it accessible and functionable with your specific style, venue and value.
Thinking about your home remodeling project can be overwhelming, but there are many tools out there to help simplify the process from planning, finding the right professional (and verifying their credibility), cost estimation, inspiration, and more. Happy remodeling!
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