Explore what you should do while your home undergoes renovations to navigate the renovation process with ease and avoid any potential pitfalls.
Secure Your Valuables
First and foremost, you should secure your valuables before the renovation process begins. Many homeowners overlook this step, only to find their precious items damaged or missing during the process. Gather and protect your most important possessions to prevent any unfortunate situations.
Consider renting a storage unit or asking a friend to store your items temporarily, ensuring their safe and out of the way during construction. Don’t forget to take an inventory and photos of your valuables for insurance purposes, as these documents could come in handy if anything were to happen.
Decide Where To Live
Next, decide on a temporary living situation during the remodeling process, which will depend on the scale of the renovation and your personal needs. You might consider staying with friends or family, renting a temporary apartment or hotel, or even setting up camp in a different area of your home.
Consider the duration of the renovation, the proximity to your workplace, and your daily routines when choosing temporary housing during construction. By choosing a comfortable living situation, you can maintain a semblance of normalcy during the renovation period.
Before you start any home remodeling – such as a kitchen or bathroom remodeling, adding an addition, building a new section onto the home, and other major renovation project, run some financial numbers to determine whether the renovation is a smart investment.
The numbers include the estimated costs, home value assessment, financing costs, and other related calculations.
Review these cost-related issues to remodeling vs. buying a new home.
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| analyze the numbers | |
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| get your home value |
The 2nd step for planning your home remodeling is deciding what you would like to do.
Will it be a –
- remodeling your kitchen or bathroom,
- converting the attic or basement,
- adding an addition or extension to the home,
- changing out your deck or patio into an all-season room,
- upgrading the home with new windows, doors and flooring,
- redesigning your landscape with new features,
- or something else.
Start collecting ideas by referencing our collection of remodeling analysis: view directory
Step 3 is sketching your ideas on paper (or digitally) and developing the spec plan.
The spec plan determines what type of home remodeling materials, items, and design considerations that will be needed. It will also contain the product specifications for each renovation element.
You will use the spec plan and architectural design to bid the project out to a contractor.
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| developing the spec plan | |
| sketch remodeling plan | |
| design considerations |
Step 4 is finding and negotiating the contract with a remodeling contractor.
Give your home remodeling ideas and specs to a contractor for review and bid analysis. Use the local network (aligned with HomeAdvisor) to find the right contractor for your project.
Review guides for contractor selection and negotiation.
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| search remodeling contractors | |
| selecting your contractor checklist |
| contractor negotiations | |
| contractor evaluation form |
Step 5 is arranging financing once you selected the contractor and finalized the contract for your project.
Using the equity value in your home is one of the best financing option for home remodeling. Start with a home equity line of credit or use the bank equity program.
Other options may include cash-out refinancing, personal savings, and/or financing from home improvement contractors.
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Step 6 is where the project begins.
It starts with setting up the work area, removing everything that needs to be replaced, installing electrical and network connections, putting in the final touches, etc.
It also means working with the contractor, managing the project, and getting the home remodeling project inspected before releasing any funds.
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| working with the contractor | |
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Practice Excellent Communication
Practicing excellent communication is key to a successful home renovation. Establish open and honest communication with your construction team from day one, ensuring you’re on the same page regarding your goals, timeline, and expectations.
Don’t hesitate to ask questions or express concerns, as addressing any issues early on can prevent costly mistakes down the line. Additionally, maintaining regular check-ins with your team can help you stay informed about the progress and foresee any potential challenges before they become significant obstacles.
Bonus Tips
Now that we’ve covered the essentials, here are some extra tips for handling stress, staying positive, and minimizing the disruption that the renovation process may bring to your daily routines:
- Establish a realistic timeline and set achievable goals for your renovation project.
- Be flexible and prepared for unexpected changes or delays.
- Schedule time for self-care and relaxation, allowing yourself to unwind and recharge.
- Enlist the help of friends and family for support and assistance during the renovation process.
- Maintain a sense of humor and try to find the silver lining in any challenges you encounter.
other related articles of interest:
Top Home Renovations to Complete Before Moving into a New House
How 3D Visualization Can Save You Time and Money in Renovations
Preparing for and managing a home renovation can be a daunting task, but by following these essential steps, you can ease the process and make the most of your experience.
Remember what you should do while your home undergoes renovations: secure your valuables, decide on a temporary living situation, and practice excellent communication. With careful planning and a positive attitude, you’ll be well on your way to a successful and stress-free renovation.
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Image credit: What You Should Do While Your Home Undergoes Renovations by envato.com
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