Remodeling a home can be overwhelming, especially if you’re doing it for the first time. Because the processes involved in renovations are extensive and require headwork, it can be daunting. So, if you’re looking for processes to follow for your project, here are five detailed steps to follow:
Planning and Design
In everything, planning comes first! It is less expensive and less frustrating to correct any mistake before the remodeling takes form. Having an idea of what you want to turn your space into can save you a lot of stress.
A rough sketch on a paper, a standard architectural design, or just a description of what you want is enough to guide you through the remodeling process. At this stage, you learn about the project, the requirements, permits you need to acquire, and local zoning regulations.
You need:
• A blueprint of your finished project
• The list of materials you need for the project
• List of projects you want to do yourself
• List of projects you need a professional to complete
Budgeting the Remodel
After planning and designing, you need to know how much you can afford. This is the second aspect of planning and it is the most crucial part. At this stage, you need to know your financial capability and list a rough estimate of your cost. However, your total budget should include labor cost, cost of permits, cost of building materials, and contingencies (about 10- to 20-percent of your budget).
Hiring a Contractor
Now that you have a plan and a budget that serves as a guideline, next on the list is hiring a professional to handle the project. Ask for recommendations from friends, relatives, and coworkers. However, you should know that the recommender does not make a contractor the most qualified man for the job. Do your research.
When interviewing recommended contractors:
• Ask for references and to see past work. This shows that a contractor is not only good on paper but has what it takes to work on the project. Also, an experienced contractor puts you on a safer side when things go wrong.
• Ask for their contracting license. This reaffirms that they have what it takes to work on the project. Never hire a contractor without checking their licenses.
• Ask for Insurance Certificates and other terms of service. This will protect you against any unexpected circumstances that might arise.
Work with Your Contractor and Build a Timeline
At this stage, let the contractor know about every aspect of your plan and be ready to ask for recommendations and improvements. Check out the estimated timeline you plan and ensure it would work for the contractor. Check out the custom timeline for the most project:
• Prepping
• Demolition
• HVAC ductwork, electrical and plumbing work
• Insulation and drywall installment
• Fixing doors and windows
• Finishing (interior painting, wallpaper, flooring, etc.)
• Cleaning
Conclude on the time required for the whole project and discuss which project comes first and how long it would take to complete each project. By this, you’d have prepared your mind and plan for the time you’d be away.
Get the Work Done
Finally, after prepping your property for remodeling and signing on the dotted lines, here comes the project. Now, you just have to step back and relax, let your contractor do what they do most. All you need to do is just to occasionally visit the site and check if they’ve not digressed from the plan.
Maylis de Lacoste manages all investor relations and media/communication at Lafayette Lending.
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