A home renovation is exciting—you get to transform your space into something fresh and new! But before you start tearing down walls or picking out paint colors, there’s a lot of preparation that needs to happen. Without a solid plan, even a small renovation can turn into a stressful, messy (and expensive) nightmare.
To make sure your renovation goes as smoothly as possible, here are 3 key things you need to do before the work begins.
Set a Realistic Budget (And Expect the Unexpected)
Renovations are notorious for going over budget, so it’s important to plan your finances carefully. Start by listing all the major expenses—materials, labor, permits, and even temporary housing if you’ll need to move out for a bit. Then, add a buffer of at least 10-20% for unexpected costs. Because trust me, there will always be surprises.
For example, let’s say you’re remodeling your kitchen, and when the contractors remove the old cabinets, they find water damage in the walls. Now, instead of just installing new cabinets, you’re also paying for repairs. Having that financial cushion will help you handle surprises without derailing the whole project.
A great tip? Prioritize your must-haves. If unexpected expenses pop up, you’ll know which upgrades to keep and which ones to cut without compromising the overall look and function of your space.
Declutter and Protect Your Belongings
Before the renovation starts, clear out the space being worked on. This not only makes things easier for the contractors but also protects your belongings from dust, debris, and potential damage.
- Move furniture and decor to another room or into storage. If large items can’t be moved, cover them with plastic sheets or drop cloths.
- Pack up valuables like fragile decorations, electronics, and important documents. Even if the work is happening in just one area, dust has a way of creeping into every corner of your home.
- Create a temporary living setup if the renovation affects essential rooms like the kitchen or bathroom. A mini kitchen in another room with a microwave and coffee maker can be a lifesaver during a kitchen remodel.
Communicate Clearly with Your Contractor
Good communication with your contractor can make or break your renovation experience. From the start, be clear about your expectations, budget, and timeline. A few things to discuss upfront include:
- Project timeline: When will the work start and finish? Are there any possible delays to expect?
- Work schedule: What time will workers arrive and leave each day? Will they need access to certain parts of your home?
- Material choices: Make sure you’ve chosen your materials ahead of time so there are no last-minute supply chain delays.
- Point of contact: Who do you reach out to with questions? Having a clear go-to person prevents confusion.
Really, preparing for a home renovation is just as important as the renovation itself.
