Renovating a Home: Where to Start

Renovating a home is a little bit like taking a long road trip: you shouldn’t start before you know exactly where you’re going. If you do, you risk winding up someplace you don’t want to be, and having to exert a serious amount of time and expense to get back on track!

With this in mind, here’s a breakdown of where to start when it comes to renovating a home.

5 Things to Do Before Renovating a Home

To start your home renovation on the right foot, you need to put a few things in place beforehand. Here are five steps to initiate the process:

1. Establish a budget

Before you start demolishing walls or ripping out cabinets, sit down and establish a budget. Your budget is the guiding force of your renovation, and it’s critical that you understand its bounds before you begin. Figure out things like how much money you have to spend, total, and what percentage of it will be dedicated to things like paint, appliances, countertops, etc.

Once you’ve crunched all the numbers, write them down and refer to them frequently to ensure things stay on track.

2. Find a licensed contractor

Many people assume their contractor is licensed when, in fact, he or she might not be. This can be a dire mistake. Instead of making assumptions, ask to see a copy of the contractor’s license and liability insurance. These are essential protective steps that can prevent you from being sued if something goes wrong on the job site.

3. Set a timeline

Timelines and budgets both keep your project in check, and it’s critical to have both before you start renovating a home. Without a timeline, it’s far too easy for your project to run out of control, extending weeks or even months past the point you wanted it over and done with. Because of this, sit down with your contractor and establish a timeline for the project. Expect some delays here and there, but be prepared to insist that the project runs according to the projection as often as possible.

4. Outline the ‘must-haves’ of your renovation

What are the most important purposes this renovation is meant to achieve? Lay these out clearly and discuss them with your contractor so you can ensure the project caters to them instead of breezing right past them down the road.

5. Start the renovation

Once you’ve done all the legwork, you can start renovating a home. As your project progresses, take time out to check in with these foundational preparations. Ensure you’re still in the vicinity of things like your budget and timeline. You should also hold regular meetings with your contractor to discuss new ideas and ensure the project is moving along in ways you’re both happy with.

Renovating a Home 101

Whether you’re taking your home down to the studs or only overhauling a kitchen or bathroom, these five tips can help streamline and simplify the process – from beginning to end!