Remodeling a home can be both exhilarating and nerve-wracking. From revamping your kitchen or adding extra living space to changing all rooms within your residence, remodeling can bring with it both promise and logistical headaches.
Beyond the thrill of Pinterest inspiration and picking paint colors, there’s the tough task of sticking to a budget, deadlines and working with the right team to make your dream a reality.
Before you start, remember that a great remodel needs a careful, clear plan. Here’s how to help your home change go as smoothly as possible, from choosing the right team to adding the final touches.
Set a Realistic Budget and Stick to It
Making a realistic budget and sticking to it is harder than it looks. Many people fail to realize the cost of a remodel or to plan for financial surprises that always happen. To avoid financial problems set aside an extra 10-20% of your budget to cover unexpected expenses.
When planning your budget, consider each part, like materials and labor. Some like to spend more on top-notch cabinets or eco-friendly gadgets, while others focus on style changes like lights and floors. Regardless of what matters most to you, ensure it’s clear and aligns with your true desires for the remodel.
Also, share your budget limits with your builder or designer. Experienced professionals can often suggest other materials or choices that look good but cost less. By keeping the budget real, you avoid the trap of “just one more thing”—a habit that can make costs pile up.
Hire Professionals You Trust
The initial step to a successful remodel involves hiring a team you can lean on. This team typically includes builders, designers, architects, and even specialists like electricians or plumbers.
Getting experts with proven skills is crucial; after all, you’re entrusting them with your home. In addition, meetings should be arranged with at least three pros for each job to compare their methods and communication styles. It’s crucial that you feel at ease with them and that they grasp your vision.
For instance, you might be keen on a modern open kitchen, but your designer might realize that your space’s setup demands some compromise. The right experts will provide creative fixes instead of merely agreeing to each idea.
It’s worth investing extra time to find a designer who not only respects your tastes but can also advise you on practical matters, like how materials will age over time. A solid rapport with your team can save you from stress and annoyance later on, especially when small (or big) changes become necessary.
However, if your house is too old and your remodeling plan ends up costing as much as building a new home, it’s best to consult with professional builders such as Schumacher Homes and explore your options.
You can look through the Schumacher Homes floor plans and see if you can find something that piques your interest and is well within your budget. Maybe building a new home can be a better option, instead of spending a fortune on remodeling an old house.
Create a Realistic Timeline
When planning a remodel, timing is key. Your project might seem easy at first, but keep in mind that construction and renovations rarely go without delays. Between waiting for permits, material deliveries, and scheduling work, your project will likely take longer than you think. It’s best to start with a timeline that allows for some wiggle room.
Talk with your contractor about the timeline, asking them to outline each stage and the time they expect it to take. For a big remodel, some steps, like tearing down walls or installing plumbing, might take more time due to checks and the complexity of the task. If you’re working on a high-use area like your kitchen or bathroom, think about how you’ll cope without it for some weeks or even months.
The season also plays a role. If you live in an area with harsh winter weather, avoid starting large projects during this time, as bad conditions can delay progress and impact quality. Planning around holidays or big family events can help reduce added stress.
Keep Communication Open Throughout the Process
From start to finish, transparent communication is key to a smooth remodel. Mix-ups can cause delays, raise costs, or give results that don’t match what you want. To keep up with everything, plan regular meetings with your builder and other pros on the remodel. Weekly updates work well for bigger projects, making sure everyone is in sync and letting you deal with issues as they pop up.
Communicate clearly and directly—don’t hesitate to ask for updates, express concerns, or ask questions. If something feels off, trust your gut and say something. Your builder and designer should listen to you, as they’re there to make your vision real. When you and your team see eye to eye, the project goes more smoothly, and you’ll likely feel better about the end results.
Bottom Line
Remodeling your home is a journey, one that can be both fulfilling and tough. With the right plan, your remodel can go smoothly, giving you a space that fits both your needs and style.
A remodel is a major undertaking, but with proper planning, it becomes more about transforming your home into a space you love than dealing with challenges. Embrace the experience, be ready to change as needed, and remember—the final result will be worth the effort.
