11 Essential Tips for Planning a Home Renovation

Are you considering a renovation for your property? When updating your home, prioritizing personalization over trendy tiles or paint colors is essential. Careful planning is crucial to successfully bringing your vision to life without causing major disruptions, whether it involves creating an open-concept living area, a luxurious bathroom retreat, or a stunning kitchen.

However, the key point is that remodeling doesn’t have to be a massive project. With the right guidance, you can navigate through it like a pro. Your renovation will be more seamless, effective, and, most importantly, enjoyable by following these 11 essential tips.

Establish Your Priorities

Consider your options before making any impulsive decisions or spending excessive time on Pinterest. What motivates your remodeling project? Are you looking to improve the appearance, functionality, or energy efficiency of your space? Clearly defining your reasons for renovating will help you stay focused and on track throughout the process.

If you desire a more spacious living room for family gatherings, think about ways to increase the space such as expanding the square footage or removing barriers. If space is limited, you could also look into adding built-in shelves or hidden compartments.

Expert Tip: Start by creating a list of your non-negotiable “must-haves” and bonus “nice-to-haves” to prioritize your objectives. This will help you focus better when making tough decisions or dealing with budget constraints.

A Practical and Stylish Kitchen Design

The kitchen is the central hub of every home, requiring a perfect balance of style and practicality, whether you’re a culinary expert or a fan of takeout. How can you create a kitchen that is both functional and visually appealing?

According to Airoom, a well-known Lincolnwood kitchen remodeling expert, “Layout is the first step. There is a time-tested method for maximizing productivity in the kitchen: the work triangle. This triangle consists of the sink, the stove, and the refrigerator.”

Gather your cooking tools and gadgets in a brightly lit area with ample counter space for prepping. Transform your kitchen into a sleek and organized space by incorporating pull-out pantry shelves, under-cabinet lighting, and innovative vertical storage solutions.

Establish a Practical Budget

Although it is commendable to have ambitious goals, being financially prudent is even more important. Unforeseen events, upgrades in materials, or changes in personnel can cause renovation expenses to skyrocket beyond what was originally planned. It is crucial to establish a detailed and realistic budget right away to prevent your finances from spiraling out of control.

Before beginning renovations, research the average costs of similar projects in your area. Break down expenses into categories such as permits, materials, labor, and furnishings. It is wise to allocate 10-15% of your budget for unexpected costs, to ensure you are adequately prepared.

If you want high-end features but your budget is tight, consider combining splurges with savings. For instance, you could go for long-lasting countertops but choose affordable cabinets. Take note of every cent. Keep tabs on your expenditures with the help of budgeting applications or tools.

Arrange Your Schedule Carefully

Creating a practical renovation timeline is just as important as budgeting, especially when unexpected delays can occur. Start by setting a target completion date and work backwards, factoring in the scope of the project and the time needed for supplies to avoid shifting deadlines.

Make sure to thoroughly review the schedule with your contractors, accounting for potential delays caused by weather, supply chain issues, or permitting procedures. Avoid scheduling repairs during busy times like holidays or family events if possible. Remember that rushing through a project can lead to cutting corners and sacrificing quality.

Obtain Any Required Permits

Before any major remodeling can begin, it is essential to obtain the required permits, even though dealing with the bureaucracy can be frustrating. Failure to get the proper permissions could lead to penalties, setbacks, or even having to undo work that has already been completed.

Research your local construction regulations to find out what is necessary. Improvements to the electrical system, plumbing, structure, and additions to existing buildings often require building permits. Certain regions may also need to be inspected at certain points throughout the project. Relying on your contractor to manage permissions is a bad idea. Their assistance is welcome, but keeping yourself updated and verifying compliance is still smart.

Make an Informed Material Selection

Your remodel’s outcome is contingent upon the materials you select. Not only do they impact the visual appeal, but they also play a crucial role in the durability and maintenance of your space. It is essential to choose durable materials for high-traffic areas such as bathrooms and kitchens, while living rooms allow for more flexibility in material selection.

When choosing materials, consider both aesthetics and practicality. While hardwood floors are timeless and elegant, they may not be suitable for humid areas. Luxury vinyl or tile, on the other hand, offer durability and water resistance. It is important to carefully evaluate the pros and cons of each material before making a decision.

Prioritize Energy Savings

You may lower your power costs and environmental impact by making your house more energy-efficient during a remodel.

Start with the doors and windows when remodeling your home. Enhance insulation by installing double-paned windows and using weather stripping. Maximize heating and cooling efficiency by installing energy-efficient equipment, switching to LED lights, and considering a smart thermostat. If your remodel includes the roof or walls, seek out improved insulation options.

Be Open-Minded and Ready for Anything

No matter how well you prepare for renovations, they might still reveal unseen problems like old wiring, concealed water damage, or structural problems. Flexibility is key to being calm and collected in the face of these challenges. If unexpected problems crop up, you and your contractor should discuss your alternatives carefully so that you can make a well-informed decision without losing composure.

Recruit Qualified Experts

Coming up with great ideas is only half the battle when it comes to building your dream home; you also need skilled professionals to bring those ideas to life. Choosing trustworthy experts to handle your remodeling project is a crucial initial decision.

Search for architects, designers, and contractors who have expertise in your specific project and review their feedback. Examine their past projects, read online testimonials, and request references from happy clients. A trustworthy contractor will not only bring your vision to life but also offer guidance on cost-effective solutions to help you reach your objectives.

When hiring experts, be sure to thoroughly inquire about the project’s schedule, materials, and backup procedures in case of unforeseen problems. Hold a meeting with your selected team to discuss objectives in advance and ensure they align with your goals. Safeguard your interests by promptly negotiating payment terms and contracts.

Pay Attention to Every Detail

Although big decisions like choosing new flooring, cabinetry, and paint colors often steal the spotlight during a redesign, it’s important not to overlook the impact of the smaller details. Make sure to pay attention to finishing touches like hardware, light fixtures, baseboards, and other minor elements as you plan your project.

Plan for What’s to Come

When renovating, it’s important to think about not only the present but also the future. Keep in mind that your needs may change over time. Are you planning for an aging-friendly design or preparing to start a family?

Consider features such as versatile room designs, eco-friendly technology, and durable materials when evaluating amenities. Renovating the kitchen and bathroom with modern fixtures can significantly enhance the resale value of your home.