Fail to plan; plan to fail—8 important steps to start planning for your home remodel.
Remodeling your home can feel overwhelming at first, but with over 30 years of experience in construction and remodeling across North Texas, I can tell you that the key to success is just a little planning ahead.
A bit of preparation goes a long way in ensuring your project runs smoothly and delivers the results you’re hoping for. To help, I’ve laid out the 8 major steps to take when tackling a remodeling or renovation project. Let’s break it down and make the process as stress-free as possible.
Planning Your Remodel Project
Determine the specific changes you want to make to your home. Whether it's a kitchen remodel, a bathroom update, or a full home renovation, clearly defining the scope of the project will help you focus your efforts and ensure that you don't miss any important details.
Do your homework and make a list with your wants on one side, and your needs on the other. Be as specific as possible by listing your style and brand preferences.
Make sketches of your ideas or print off pictures that inspire you. Prioritize your list, so that if the unexpected happens, you will be prepared to make the tough decisions of what can wait, and what cannot.
Set a Budget for Your Remodel
Before setting the budget for your home remodel, you need to determine how you’ll fund it. Are you paying in cash, taking out a loan or applying for credit? Want to learn more about financing a home project? Check out, "Smart Strategies for Financing Your Home Project."
Once you know how much you can afford to spend, set aside 10-20% of your available funds for unexpected expenses. By setting aside a percentage before beginning, you know you will have the funds available to finish your project no matter what happens.
Determine how much money you can want to spend on your home remodeling project. This will help you decide what materials and finishes you can afford, and will also guide your choice of contractor or DIY approach.
Get Bids From Professionals
Once you have an idea of the top priorities of your remodel and what will be done to achieve these goals, you should start meeting with contractors. Choosing the right contractor can be difficult. Different contractors have varying qualifications, equipment, experience, work ethic, and, yes, different pricing. One thing for sure is that your project requires experience and expertise.
When shopping for contractors keep in mind that the lowest bid is not always the best bid. Contractors who bid too low may be cutting corners on qualified labor or materials. Getting the best quality of work and materials that fit with your budget is most important in the long term.
Research and Hire a Contractor
If you plan on hiring a contractor, do your research to find a reliable, experienced contractor who can deliver your desired results within your budget and timeline. Check reviews, ask for references, and request multiple quotes from different contractors to compare pricing and services. If you haven't already, check out our article, "Red Flags When Hiring a Contractor".
Have a Detailed Contract in Place
The basic job of a contractor agreement is to outline the project, including tasks, materials, timeline (or phases) and cost. This is the document you and your contractor will consult throughout the job, so make sure it is clear and detailed. It’s important that you are comfortable with all details of the contract. Read it yourself carefully.
Choose Materials and Finishes
Decide on the materials and finishes you want to use for your project, including cabinetry, flooring, lighting, and fixtures. Consider durability, functionality, and aesthetic appeal when making your selections.
Plan for Contingencies
Anticipate potential setbacks, such as delays in delivery or unforeseen issues that may arise during construction. Plan for contingencies and be prepared to adjust your timeline and budget if necessary.
It is possible to uncover damage during a renovation. This can come from plumbing leaks, pest infestation, roof leaks, poor wiring and other problems. Sometimes contractors uncover code violations and poor workmanship.
When this happens, the scope of the project may grow. Contractors must fix whatever is wrong before they can move forward with their project. This can increase the cost of the project and can also extend the duration of the project.
Protect Your HVAC System
During a home remodeling project, it is really important to take steps to protect your HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) system. Here are some ways to protect your HVAC system during a home remodeling project.
Turn off the HVAC system before the remodeling project begins to prevent dust and debris from circulating through the system. Cover all vents and registers in the remodeling area with plastic sheeting and duct tape to prevent dust and debris from entering the HVAC system.
Change the air filters in the HVAC system frequently, before, during, and after the remodeling project. This will help prevent dust and debris from clogging the filters and entering the HVAC system. Consider having the ductwork cleaned after the remodeling project to remove any dust and debris that may have accumulated in the system.
Obtain Necessary Permits
Your contract should specify who will be responsible for obtaining any permits. Permitting is an important part of large construction projects. If your contractor is not responsible for obtaining the correct permits, you may need to obtain them from your local government. Check with your municipality to determine which permits are necessary and ensure that you have all the necessary paperwork in order before you begin.
Plan for Living Arrangements
If your remodeling project will disrupt your daily living routine, consider planning for temporary living arrangements during the construction period. This may include finding a temporary rental or staying with family and friends.
We are here to help with your next home project.
By following these steps, you can prepare for a home remodeling project that meets your needs, fits your budget, and delivers the results you desire. If you are ready for a remodel, the Bishop Builders team is ready to get started.
Contact us at 1-817-221-0873 or info@bishopbuilders.com
