Home is more important now than ever. If you have spent a significant time at home this year, you may have started to reimagine your space. Maybe you want to add a new home office or perhaps you have decided your dated kitchen and/or bathroom finally needs some attention. A home renovation can modernize your home, provide additional space that meets your lifestyle needs, increase your comfort, as well as provide value to your investment. To help you start planning for your home remodel, consider the following suggestions.
Envision Your Renovation
The first step in planning your home renovation is to develop an idea of the various things you want to achieve. Create a prioritized list of your needs and wants. Look at magazines and websites…collect pictures of homes or remodeling projects you like. Things to take into consideration include traffic patterns, furniture size and placement, colors, lighting and how you expect to use the remodeled space. The more clearly you can envision your renovation and describe it on paper, the better prepared you will be to make the transformation of your home into the one you have always wanted.
Utilize our virtual Tour of Remodeled Homes to explore the creativity and quality workmanship of professional remodelers. This annual event, hosted by our Remodelers Council, provides an opportunity to explore possibilities for your own home’s transformation whether that be a complete home renovation, master suite addition, upgrades to your kitchen and/or baths, the creation of outdoor living space, and more.
Accomplishing Your Vision
Once you have created a master list of things you want to incorporate into your renovation, the next step is deciding how to accomplish your vision. This includes determining your budget…how much money you want to spend on your home renovation including furnishings, landscaping, or any other expenses you might incur along with any financing needs.
The next step is to select an experienced and licensed general contractor. Some projects take considerable time and money, so it is important to select a contractor you can trust. Not only can experienced contractors provide the necessary guidance you need, they can help you explore and discover your home’s full potential.
If your decision to renovate involves creating better access for someone with limited mobility or for future aging-in-place needs, you may want to consider contacting a Certified Aging-in-Place Specialist (CAPS) professional. Not only does universal design elements make your home more open and functional, it provides greater marketing value as well.
We encourage you to start your search for a professional remodeler with our Tour of Remodeled Homes contractors. These industry professionals are available to answer questions and share helpful resources. You can find additional information on our website which includes a membership directory of licensed general contractors along with suppliers, trade contractors and service providers. In addition, you can access a listing of Remodelers Council members and CAPS professionals.
Working Together
Working in partnership with your general contractor and their team is critical to the success of your renovation…beginning with clearly defined expectations and open communications.
Choose a time frame that works for you. If you are working from home or going back to your job soon, that may help you decide when it’s time to start your project. Home construction can be disruptive. Tell your remodeler upfront your work or living arrangements while your home is under construction. A professional remodeler will provide guidance on how to minimize significant disruptions related to plumbing or electrical work. If you have small children, most professionals will be willing to remove tools at the end of each workday or be placed out of reach. A contractor can also erect temporary walls to minimize dust in your primary living areas.
Safety on the job site for workers and homeowners is number one priority for qualified remodelers. If you have any concerns about social distancing or other safety measures talk to your contractor. New safety protocols and procedures have been implemented this year to provide greater protection for everyone on a job site.
Transforming Your Home
Your home should be your cozy place…your happy place. Working with a professional remodeler…you can transform your existing home to meet its full potential…becoming the home of your dreams!