Starting a home renovation project is a huge deal. From finding inspiration to sourcing materials and reaching out to contractors, you’re going to have a financial and emotional rollercoaster ride. With so many things to plan, making mistakes is easy and almost inevitable.
However, with some preparation, you can enter the project with confidence and avoid stress and costly repairs. Here’s everything you need to ensure a successful home improvement project:
Renovation Goals
Every home improvement project begins with a vision, and most often a Pinterest board. While having inspiration is great, you need to ask yourself definitive questions about your renovation goals.
Take a step back and ask yourself: Are you aiming to increase the value of your property, improve its functionality, or enhance its aesthetics? Do you need more space? And how will this renovation affect your daily life?
Be clear about what you’re trying to achieve. Explore different styles and designs, but keep revisiting your initial goals.
A Detailed Budget
Home improvement projects are expensive. Without proper planning, you’ll run out of all your savings, trying to understand where it all went so wrong. The first step is to determine the source of financing. Are you going to dip into your personal savings or get home improvement loans? Take a good look at your current finances to figure out which option is more suitable.
Next, create a detailed budget outlining every expense. You should consider the cost of materials, labor, permits, and other potential expenses. Set aside a contingency fund for unexpected repairs that may arise during the construction.
A Realistic Timeline
Once you have figured out the financial matters, make a realistic timeline. A timeline will break the project into smaller, more manageable tasks, providing a clear roadmap.
Setting up a timeline can also help you identify bottlenecks, leading to proactive planning and resource allocation. Moreover, having a clear understanding of each step in your project can help reduce stress.
Necessary Permits
While state laws vary, any improvements that modify your home’s structure, electrical system, plumbing system, and heating and cooling system require permits. Examples include:
- Fence installation
- Deck installation
- Siding replacement
- New window installation
Other tasks, such as painting walls, installing floors, installing countertops, or replacing plumbing fixtures, typically do not require permits.
Work with a qualified home improvement contractor to ensure compliance with residential construction laws.
Temporary Living Arrangements
Many homeowners call contractors to start a project, but often forget to consider their own living arrangements. Sitting, eating, and sleeping amidst dust and debris can be hazardous to your health. Moreover, it is downright uncomfortable.
Depending on the duration of your project, make adequate living arrangements for you and your family. You can stay with friends or family, or stay in a short-term rental space. If the project is smaller or only limited to one floor of the house, you can make arrangements accordingly.
Consider the comfort level and personal preference of your family members when starting the construction.
