10 Things to Be Prepared for During Your Upcoming Renovation

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Home renovation doesn’t have to be as scary as it seems. With planning and the right team in place, you can turn your vision into reality — and enjoy the process along the way. REALTOR® Susan De León shares what you can expect when you renovate your home.

1. A home warranty is a must.

Before breaking ground, make sure you’re prepared to purchase a home warranty to protect your investment. A home warranty will cover any repair or replacement costs for equipment or systems that break down due to normal wear and tear. By planning ahead for this expense, you can take comfort right from the start that you’ll be covered should something go wrong six months after your project’s completion.

2. There are different types of home renovations.

Not all renovations are created equal. Some, like a kitchen or bathroom remodel, will add more value to your home than others. It’s important to do your research and figure out which type of renovation makes the most sense for your home and your budget.

3. You may need to add a home office.

If you’re working from home now, you may need to add a dedicated home office space as part of your renovation. This doesn’t have to be a big space — a small room or corner in your house can suffice — but it should be quiet and comfortable so you can be productive. Also, you should ensure there is plenty of natural light in your workspace. Natural light doesn’t just make working easier, it actually eases stress. If natural light isn’t available, overhead lighting is a great alternative.

4. Capable, trustworthy contractors are essential.

Your renovation will only be as good as the team you have in place to execute it. Make sure you vet potential contractors carefully before hiring anyone. Once you’ve found a good team, make sure to clearly communicate your ideas and expectations to avoid any misunderstandings down the line.

5. You and your contractor will need certain apps or software during the process.

To stay organized during your renovation, you’ll need to collaborate with your contractor on using some sort of project management software or app. This will help you track tasks, create schedules, collaborate with team members, and more. If you want an all-in-one solution, this may be your best option.

6. Budgeting and estimating costs can be tricky.

One of the most challenging parts of renovating your home is staying on budget. Costs can quickly spiral out of control if you’re not careful. To avoid this, work with your contractor to get accurate estimates for all materials and labor BEFORE construction begins. Keep in mind that unexpected issues may arise during the course of the project, so it’s always best to pad your budget by 10 – 20% to account for these potential setbacks.

7. You’ll need to establish a timeline and schedule.

Designing and planning is one thing, but actually executing the renovation is another story entirely. That’s why it’s important to establish a timeline and schedule with your contractor upfront so everyone knows what needs to be done and when it needs to be done by. This will help keep the project on track and avoid any delays.

8. Communicating ideas is key.

Perhaps even more important than having a great contractor is having open communication with them throughout the entire process. If there are any problems or concerns, make sure to voice them early on so they can be addressed promptly. Likewise, if you have any changes or modifications, you want made, don’t hesitate to communicate those as well! The sooner everyone is on the same page, the smoother things will go.

9. Thinking long-term.

It’s important to think about how your needs may change down the road when renovating your home. For example, if you’re planning on starting a family in the next few years, you may want to install child-proof features like gates or cabinet locks now rather than later. By thinking long-term, you can save yourself time (and money!) down the road.

10. Enjoy the process!

Renovating your home can be stressful at times, but it’s also an exciting opportunity to create something truly special that reflects your unique style and personality. So, relax, take a deep breath, and enjoy the process! With the right planning and execution, you’ll soon be enjoying your new (and improved!) home sweet home.

Home renovation can be an intimidating prospect, but it doesn’t have to be. With effective planning and communication, you can create the home of your dreams — and enjoy the process, too! Just remember these 10 things when embarking on your next home improvement project.