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How to Plan a Home Renovation From Start to Finish
Embarking on a home renovation is an exhilarating journey, whether you're transforming a historic property into your dream residence or flipping a house for profit. However, diving into the details can feel daunting, particularly if you're new to the process. That's why it's essential to meticulously plan your remodel in advance. Follow our tips for effective home renovation planning to alleviate your concerns and keep your project on track.
A Step-by-Step Guide to Planning a Complete House Remodel in 5 Steps
3 Key Considerations for Your Home Remodel Planning
When renovating a home for personal use or resale, keep these three important factors in mind as you outline your home remodeling plans:
Your Budget Size
The amount you intend to allocate for your home renovation will largely dictate the project's scope. We will discuss how to establish a realistic budget in step three.
The State of Your Property
Renovating a fixer-upper typically incurs higher costs and requires more time compared to remodeling a property that is already in good condition. Keep this in mind as you plan your comprehensive remodel, as it will affect both your budget and the types of projects you undertake.
The Purpose of Your Project
Are you preparing to sell your home or flipping a recently acquired property? Or do you plan to live in your home for the long term? Whatever your objectives may be, tailor your home renovation accordingly. If increasing resale value is your goal, focus on remodeling projects that will enhance your return on investment. Conversely, if you're updating your home to better align with your lifestyle, consider prioritizing the rooms where you spend the most time.
1. Build a Detailed Home Remodel Plan
When to start: 6 to 12 months before your start date
Building a plan is crucial if you’re renovating a house with no experience. First, you should outline the work that needs to be done. This includes stating the end goal for your renovation and providing design inspiration for contractors. You should also note which rooms you want to renovate in your old home and which ones you plan to leave as-is.
Your project plan should also include:
A list of steps you plan to DIY
A list of steps you plan to hire a professional for
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2. Take Time to Research Permits
When to start: 6 to 12 months before your start date
You should start investigating local zoning regulations and permits early on in planning your home renovation. Make sure your neighborhood allows for your specific remodel (some renovations, like converting your garage into a room, are not allowed everywhere) and find out if you need a permit. If you’re completing a project that will change the structure of your home or how you use a room, you’ll most likely need to contact city officials.
If you do need a permit, wait to apply until you’ve hired a team and settled on a timeline. Depending on where you live, your contractor may need to obtain a building permit for you.
3. Set a Budget for Your Project
When to start: 6 to 12 months before your start date
The next step in planning a home remodel is determining how much you’re willing to spend. Your home renovation budget should include the costs for permits, building materials, labor and cosmetic touches.
If your cost estimates don’t fit into your budget, use your home improvement project plan from step one to eliminate elements of your job that are a lower priority. You should also request estimates from multiple contractors to find the best option for you.
4. Hire Contractors
When to start: 6 to 12 months before your start date
Once you’ve built a home remodeling plan and set a budget, you’ll need to hire your team. At this point in your renovation plan, you should know which projects you’ll complete yourself and which ones you’ll hire out for. Make sure to start reaching out to contractors early in your house flipping process as some contractors may have a wait list of up to 12 months.
Friends and family are generally the best place to start for referrals for reputable contractors. You can then use the National Association of the Remodeling Industry’s website to find contractors near you who are members. Start assembling a list of certified contractors to follow up with to assess how qualified they are for the level of work your remodel requires.
Don’t choose your contractors based on cost estimates alone. When interviewing and selecting your contractors, think about:
Years of experience: A contractor with several years of experience may be a safer bet than someone new to the business.
Contracting license: Make sure your contractor has all the required certifications specific to their line of work. Please note your contractor may not need a license depending on the state you live in.
Certificate of insurance: Contractors should have workers’ compensation and liability insurance for their work type.
References: Request and call references. This is a great way to make sure your contractor isn’t just good on paper. It’s always a good idea to check out online reviews, too.
Payment schedule: A reputable contractor won’t ask you to pay the full price upfront, and the Better Business Bureau advises not to. However, it’s important to discuss payment terms before construction begins. In some cases, it’s better to spend a little extra to get someone you’re comfortable working with.
5. Plan Ahead for Your Cleanup
When to Start: 2 to 3 months before your start date
It’s easy to forget about cleanup when you’re planning a big project. Don’t wait until your contractor is piling concrete in your driveway to think about waste removal. Factor the cost of getting rid of debris into your budget and make sure to discuss plans with your contractor before starting your job.
You have several options when it comes to your junk removal method:
Rent a dumpster: You can rent one or multiple roll off dumpsters for a stress-free cleanup. We’ll deliver your bins directly to your driveway or street. You can plan for staggered delivery or have all your containers delivered at once. Need more than one dumpster but don’t have the space? Use our convenient empty-and-return service.
Use dumpster bags: These may work best for your smaller projects, final touches or any leftover debris at the end of your project. Simply fill your bags, set them at the curb and let the manufacturer pick them up.
Go to the landfill yourself: You always have the option of hauling your renovation debris to the landfill yourself. Make sure you have a truck large enough to carry all your remodel debris.
Work with your contractor: Your contractor may have a plan to get rid of debris baked into their service. Confirm with them before hiring.
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