▢ Step 1 - The Budget
The first step to any remodel is to create a realistic budget. Try asking yourself some of these questions:
1. Is your remodel a minor or major remodel?
2. How much can you afford to spend and will you use some of your home equity to finance it?
3. Are you expecting a return on your investment, add value to your home, or just for your own enjoyment?
4. Will this remodel require architectural drawings and permits?
▢ Step 2 - Ideas and Inspirations
Now that you have created a budget you should now create a vision that is respectful of your budget. You can do with with an ideas and inspiration book. This book will help a lot in giving your contractor a feel for what you want.
▢ Step 3 - Talk to Your Family
Discuss with your family how you will live through the construction.
If you are remodeling your kitchen, do you have a backup plan for where you are going to cook?
You bathroom could be out of commission for a certain period of time so you need to come up with a game plan. A home remodeling project is a family effort that even includes your pets.
▢ Step 4 - Do Your Research
Before you call contractors for estimates you should do some research on the project that you want to do. There are many resources out there to get some basic information about remodeling like the National Kitchen and Bath Association and the National Association of the Remodeling Industry.
It would also help if you have knowledge about the city codes. Each city normally have staff that can help answer any questions that your might have. Another great resources to get your questions answered is the homeowners association in your community.
▢ Step 5 - Interviews
Depending on if you can handle the project or not you should now start interviewing contractors and architects. Most general contractors have architects that they work with, which will save you time and money during the build. With your knowledge about your project and city codes you should feel comfortable asking relevant questions during the interviews.
▢ Step 6 - Getting Permits
Getting permits can take a long time. You should be prepared to work with your contractor for any changes or delays that might happen. The city you live in should have a step-by-step list of instructions for getting a permit.
▢ Step 7 - Getting Materials
Have a discussion with your general contractor about the materials you would like for your project. What you have envisioned might be to much for your budget. However, a good general contractor will be able to source you similar materials for a good price. Keep in mind that materials much be structurally sound and functional.