Planning a home renovation and don’t know where to start? Before diving in, you should know that there are certain things that help a renovation run smoothly, resulting in a great renovation. Undergoing a renovation is a big investment, and if done right, it will add value to your home while increasing its day to day form and function. Ready to get started? Here are 5 steps to a great renovation!
1. Create a Plan
If you want to pull off a great renovation, it’s important to have a solid plan. The more you know what you want out of the renovation, the better the renovators can help you achieve those goals. To help you determine what you want to accomplish with your reno, think about what currently works and doesn’t work in your space right now. Do you crave an open concept space so you can see your kids playing in the living room while you cook? Is it almost impossible to cook in your kitchen due to lack of counter space? Creating a plan is the first step to a great reno.
2. Align Your Expectations with Your Budget
The second step is creating your budget. Sit down with your partner to create a realistic budget for your renovation. Know that if you have a lot on your renovation list, you may not be able to do it all. It’s better to figure this out before you start the work to eliminate disappointment down the road. Create a list, numbering the jobs in order of importance. This will help you figure out what you absolutely need done and what you can take off the list if your budget doesn’t allow for it.
3. Hire a Professional Renovator
Choosing a professional renovator will ensure your renovation is done with the utmost care and professionalism. Contractors like Gentek’s Premium Renovators meet strict quality, performance and insurance rules and are sure to finish your renovation to you expectations. They’ll help you achieve your goals, stay on budget and ensure everything runs smoothly. Failing to hire a professional renovator can lead to poor quality work, insurance issues, and expenses down the road.
4. Sign a Contract
Don’t start any of the renovation work before signing a contract. Your contract will act as the basis of understanding of the work moving forward and should, at minimum, include an overview of the work to be done, cost, payment schedule, construction timeline, product specific details, a warranty clause and a close-out plan. Never do any work without a contract and be wary of contractors that attempt to start work without one.
5. Communication is Key
Plans change, and that’s okay, but you have to be able to communicate this with your contractor. Throughout the course of renovations, it’s common for homeowners to request changes or ask for additional or less work. Regular communication between you and your renovator is key to eliminating any problems and getting the job done to your expectations. Be aware that the cost and time to finish the project will change, so it’s important to have a signed change order for any and all changes.
Undergoing renovations is exciting and nerve racking all at once. Take the stress out of the process by following these 5 steps to a great renovation!