Don’t get overwhelmed when you start renovating your home. After all, it is an exciting time to be able to redesign your home in such a way that will suit your current or future needs. You should begin your plans by deciding on pricing and scheduling.
Remodeling Budget Getting Start With Pricing And Scheduling
Step 1: Preparation
Before anything else you should have a home improvement project plan that includes what you want to renovate in your home. You should also have to think of goals regarding this big project. Make sure to have blueprints ready as well to show the contractor. Depending on how big this project will be, you can further divide it into two categories: one where you can do things on your own or DIY projects, and the other would need the help of a professional.
Did you know that you just can’t start renovating your home? You need to check with your local office first. There are building permits you need to apply for before even starting. Some neighborhoods don’t even allow certain remodeling like garage conversions. So before you hire a team and get started, make sure that all permits are in order.
Step 2: Budget
Next, you want to set how much you are willing to spend for this project. Your budget should include the permits, aside from the usual: materials, contractors, and the like. It is wise to set aside 10% of your budget as an emergency fund.
At the beginning of your project, you should have a rough idea of how much you are willing to spend. Unless you are a multi-millionaire, how much you are going to shell out will depend largely on how extensive the project will be. You should start calling up contractors and compare their fees. You should also start looking at how much materials will cost.
Step 3: Hire a Contractor
Remodeling or renovating your home requires the services of professionals. There are a few in your area that you might be interested in hiring, but before you do, you should be able to discern which one will best fit your project. You want to hire someone that you can trust with your ideas.
Things you should consider when you hire a contractor include how long they have been in the business and the years of experience they have. This will tell you if they do their work according to the specifications of their clients and if they have happy customers. They should have a contractor’s license as well. You should also ask about their insurance; this will cover their workers’ compensation and liability insurance should anything happen on the job. Don’t be afraid to ask for references and give them a quick call. Make sure that the contractor really does the job well. Finally, discuss the payment schedule. It is rare for a reputable contractor to ask for full payment upfront.
If you are hiring multiple contractors, you should decide who is in charge of what so this won’t create confusion. If this is a DIY remodeling, it would be wise to only do so if you have the expertise to
Step 4: Your Timeline
When the budget and contractors are in place, now all you need to do is decide on your start date. If you have an end date in mind, work backward from that date. Sit down with the contractor and determine how long the project will be. You should take into consideration weekends and holidays. Use a calendar and mark off dates. Make sure to have a few days of wiggle room in case of unexpected changes or emergencies.
Your Timeline
Step 5: It’s Time!
Now that everything is all set, you need to prepare yourself and your home for the changes that are about to come. If it is a big renovation, you might need to move out temporarily while it is ongoing. Keep any valuables and cover furniture with plastic to protect it from dust.
