Remodeling your home can be both exciting and tiresome at the same time. When planning to do it, it is always very easy to skip some important stages if you do not have a plan. Whether big or small it is always important to have a remodeling plan so that you can get the job done right with the first attempt.
Americans spend billions of dollars each year on remodeling their homes. This means that homeowners are constantly seeking for the newest trends and designs in the industry. If you want to transform your home, structurally, visually, functionally or simply want to make a few updates here and there, here are a few things that you need to have in mind:
1. Lay out Your Dream
Before you can even think about consulting home remodeling contractors, you need to know what you want. Imagine your dreams and sketch them out. Knowing the exact reasons why you want to remodel your home and what you want to achieve at the end of the day, will lay a good foundation for the plan.
Consider how the remodeling will change the context of your home, the traffic patterns and how it will affect those who live in your home. Remember, a remodel is not easily reversible, so you need to go over your reasons and need for the remodel thoroughly first.
2. Have a Budget
Budgeting is a very important part of any remodeling project. Once you have known your home improvement needs, write down a budget and stick to it. Depending on the nature of the remodel, you might have to stay out of your home; therefore, you should also budget for your alternative accommodation.
When writing down your budget, do not forget to include some contingency fund for unexpected costs, so that the project can run smoothly without stalling.
3. Follow Other Homeowners Experiences
One of the ways of getting inspiration and avoiding disasters is by learning from others. You can look for testimonies of others who have attempted the same project that you are having on the internet and learn from their success and failures.
There are a number of chat rooms that can allow you to ask questions and get feedback, or you can also ask your friends and family members who have had their homes remodeled so that you have a better picture of what to expect.
4. Choose a Contractor
In as much as the world today loves DIY projects, it is important to hire a licensed contractor for a home remodel. A perfect dream when paired up with the right contractor, equals not only a good remodeling plan but a successful project as well. When choosing a contractor, consider:
- Their experience
- Licenses
- Insurance
- References
- Payment schedule
Your contractor will be with you all through your project and you should hire one that understands your needs, you can trust with your home and most of all can work with your budget. Once you have a contractor sit down with them and explain your dream to them so as to avoid any misunderstandings.
5. Get the Permits
Always look for the required permits before starting any projects. Many homeowners tend to think that this is an unwanted headache when doing their renovation planning. On the contrary, permits are very necessary and without them, you can run into several setbacks and also have your remodeling project can be put on hold with the relevant authorities.
Building permits are there to help ensure that remodels and renovations meet the fire safety and structural requirements. Think ahead and follow the due process to obtain a permit.
6. Remodeling Plan: Plan the Dates
When working with a contractor, they should be able to tell you how long the project should date.
Once you have the dates set, add a few more days to the set dates just in case the project needs extra time. Your timeline should also include:
- Enough time to clean up after the project
- Accounted time for holidays when the contractors will not be working
- Time for shipping any materials needed for the remodel
If you are hoping to have a brand new home during a holiday, give the project enough time so that you do not rush your contractor.
7. Plan for Problems
Even if you have a perfectly laid out plan, it is always good to plan for any problems that might arise in the course of the remodeling project. There are a lot of things that can go wrong, for example, contractors can down their tools due to a misunderstanding, and you may require more money than you had budgeted for, and so on.
Being prepared for the worst-case scenario means you will not be caught off guard and your project will not stall. Always have a working backup plan.
8. Start With the Structural Problems
When planning for a home remodel, consider any structural damages first and start with them. Having a leaking roof over a new kitchen will only damage the kitchen, as you might need to renovate it again as well.
Be sure to complete roofing, foundation, or electrical remodels or improvements first before taking up any other remodeling projects in the home.
9. Deal With the Waste as You Go
Do not wait for waste to pile up in your driveway before you can think of how to get rid of it. If your contract does not include a waste removal plan, add this to your home remodel checklist and talk to a waste removal company to deal with it before it builds up on your yard.
Consider These Tips for a Smooth Running Remodeling Plan
Now that you know how to avoid a catastrophe during a remodel. You can have a working remodeling plan that will not only meet your remodeling needs but will also save you from any unnecessary headaches.
Do you want to remodel your home? Continue checking out our website for a licensed remodeling contractor that will help you get your dream home.
