Alain Guillot

Life, Leadership, and Money Matters

Man demolishing a wall with a hammer

Remodeling 101: Tips on How to Prepare for a Major Home Remodeling Project

Every remodeling project, the size notwithstanding, is aimed at achieving a specific objective. Sometimes all that motivates a homeowner is to customize the house to meet their personality, lifestyle, or taste. Sometimes you are improving the house safety in preparation for the arrival of the baby. For those planning to resell their homes, a major remodeling work might be all you need to increase the resale value of your property.

A major home remodel is a significant financial investment that can leave you penniless if carried out without a plan or foresight. Remodeling can be as easy as putting on a fresh coat of paint and changing ceiling tiles, all the way to reinforcing the foundation of your house/building or changing the plumbing.

The following tips will prepare you for a successful major remodeling project.

Take inventory of your items

A major remodel will require emptying the entire house or just the target spaces, such as the bathroom or kitchen. Before touching anything, take inventory of all your items in the affected space or room. Keeping track of your valuable possessions will ease the cleaning process at the end of the project. You can opt for Dumpster Rental services only after ascertaining the amount of trash you will need to have removed. An audit of your items will also be helpful when filing for insurance compensation in case of damages. Additionally, you will only know what needs to be unpacked and packed once you have taken inventory of your items.

Assess your renovation needs

Before you begin your major home remodeling project, carry out a situational audit. Determine which areas need remodeling and the extent of the damage, and ask for help if you need it. Practically every city or small town in America has help at your disposal, from handyman services to engineering services. Whether you live in a single-family home or a state-of-the-art condominium, there will always be someone to assist you.

For instance, if you live in an area with a lot of insects, adding a screened in porch can be a fantastic solution. It allows you to enjoy your morning coffee or a glass of wine in the evening outdoors without the constant nuisance of bugs, offering both comfort and protection.

Develop a realistic budget

Beginning your home remodeling project without a budget can leave you with an unfinished project. These projects require a significant financial outlay. Avoid starting any major home renovation job on a shoestring budget. Work with a flexible budget that accommodates the realities of life. Remember to factor in any unforeseen expenditures while budgeting, and also coordinate with your contractor when budgeting for the project. Shop around for the items included in the proposal and find the best deals.

Document everything

Good bookkeeping during a major home renovation will help you keep track of all the costs. If you plan on reselling the home, proper bookkeeping will help you determine the resale value of your property. Documenting and safely storing important information on remodeling will also help with insurance claims and home inspection.

Prioritize

Discuss with your contractor and settle on where to begin your home remodeling project to avoid inconveniencies. Also, ensure that the task follows a plan that will leave most of the critical appliances safe and functional. 

Planning is a critical success factor when carrying out a major home remodeling project. Plan your renovation project to avoid inconveniences or the project running aground due to financial problems.