Any homeowner who has been through the remodeling process will tell you that remodeling can be a headache, especially when you don’t have a plan. The idea of planning, however, can cause homeowners to become tongue-tied and nervous. It might feel like you’re trying to set your whole future out in stone, when really all you’re doing is giving yourself a little guidance for a big project.
Here are four questions to get you thinking practically about your remodel so that you can start planning painlessly.
1. What’s My Goal?
Begin by making a list of all the things that you want to achieve in your remodel. If you think that you’ll move in the next five years, it’s best to stick with the basics, such as some upgraded hardware and a statement faucet. However, if you’re in your long-term home, your remodel could include some of your dream renovations.
Braining-storming your remodeling goals can also help you think of a theme or style that you want to evoke. You might want to go for a rustic feel, or you can try something more modern and minimalist with your design. This is the time to use your imagination about what your space can be.
Once you’re done brainstorming, separate your list into needs, wants, and projects for the future. This will help you to prioritize where to spend your budget.
2. What’s My Budget?
If you don’t keep your remodeling budget on a tight leash, it’s likely your spending will add up with high costs before you know it. We recommend writing down your budget and making a simple spreadsheet to help you keep track of everything.
Remodeling Budget Tips:
- Be realistic on how much you can afford and intend to spend.
- Think ahead about how you will be paying and what kind of financing you’ll do.
- Don’t forget to factor in labor, shipping, taxes, installation, and materials.
- If you need to vacate your home during the renovation process, add any hotel or other fees into your budget.
- Make sure to put aside 10 percent of your entire remodeling budget to draw upon in case of emergency or hidden costs, including last-minute calls to a plumber or electrician, or any odd surprises such as floorboard rot.
3. How Long Will It Take?
It’s no secret that a drawn-out remodel can be hard on a household. Remodeling often blocks you off from important areas of the house and necessary resources. Unfinished rooms can also be emotionally draining and frustrating to be around.
Making a timeline will allow you to mitigate these personal difficulties in two ways:
- It allows you to schedule when certain parts of your home are under renovation so that you can plan around those areas.
- It gives you a deadline so that your remodeling project has a sense of urgency.
4. Who’s Doing the Work?
Remodeling can require a lot of skilled labor, which comes with its own high price point. While some homeowners feel comfortable doing their own DIY fixes, for professional quality and difficult installations its best to hire a contractor. Picking your contractor can be both a personal and financial decision. It’s best to listen to referrals and reviews and look for a contractor you can speak honestly with.
For big projects, many homeowners elect to hire a general contractor who will help you decide on the best ways to install your changes, help you stay within your budget, and find the labor to work on each part of your remodeling process. Smaller remodels, including ones that have only one particular process, such as redoing the flooring throughout the house, can be managed by hiring a specialized contractor. Ultimately, the labor that you hire depends on the scope of your project.
Remember that plans are never perfect, and your remodeling journey is going to need flexibility here and there. Nonetheless, having some guidelines, including your goals, a budget spreadsheet, and a timeline schedule will make it a much smoother process.
About the author: Kelli is a healthy lifestyle blogger for GroomandStyle.com. She has been a regular contributor to sites talking about the newest trends in home improvement, smart style, fashion and fitness. When she’s not writing, she enjoys photography, hiking and pretty much anything outdoors.
