Take the Quiz: Are You Ready for a Home Remodel?

Whether you’re putting in new flooring, remodeling your kitchen, or redoing your entire home, a remodel takes considerable time, money, and planning.

There are many aspects to consider before jumping into a home remodeling project such as:

• Setting a realistic timeline for your project.
• Analyzing how your remodel will affect your family and how each family member will handle it.
• Establishing a budget.
• Obtaining permits and permissions from your city or HOA.

Take our brief assessment to determine how ready you are to tackle a home renovation:

Feel confident and prepared for your home renovation

Download our free printable home renovation checklist to help you prepare for your home renovation.

• Discover common renovation tasks.
• Don't be caught off guard by surprises.
• Track your progress.

Now that you know have an idea of how you’re stacking up, learn more about how to make sure you’re prepared for your home remodel.

Know what you want to get out of the remodel

It may sound strange, but you should ask yourself what your plans are for your home and how this remodel will help make your plans a reality. If you’re planning on moving in a few years, will this remodel increase your home’s resale value? If not, you should consider whether it’s worth the cost and potential inconvenience of a remodel.

If you’re planning on living in your home for years to come, consider the specific ways your renovation will provide value. Make sure your projected spend will be worth the investment.

Set a realistic budget

Budgeting for a home remodel is one of the most important (and difficult) steps to take before launching into your home improvement project. Knowing what you want to accomplish, how much you have to spend, and how you’re going to finance it all can help you stay on target to meet your goals.

Get estimates or bids from multiple sources so you have a good idea of what your project will cost. However you’re planning on financing your remodel, be sure to save an extra 10-20 percent cushion for unexpected expenses. Once your project is underway, carefully track your spending.

Consider how the remodel will affect your family

Remodels are a major commitment both in money, but also time. Sometimes remodels require adjustments inside and outside the home that may affect family members in different ways. Be sure to speak with each member of the family to understand any concerns they may have and set expectations of what the remodel will entail to keep everyone on the same page. Having a specific timeline in place can help alleviate potential frustrations.

Obtain necessary permits and permissions

While it’s not the most glamorous part of a remodel, obtaining permits from the city or permissions from your HOA is a very necessary step that can save you a headache down the road. Check with your city, county, and state to make sure your project meets codes and ordinances. Your HOA may also have specific permissions you should obtain as well. This is not an area you want to ask for forgiveness later rather than seeking permission at the start.

Know when to call in the pros

Many people enjoy the challenge and opportunity of doing parts or all of a remodel by themselves. If you have the skills and know-how, this is a great option that can provide satisfaction and potentially save some money. However, not all remodels and renovations are the same and some require very specific skillsets. Sometimes it pays to hire a professional. As part of your home remodel preparation, explore the costs and benefits of professional installation. And if you do go the DIY route, make sure you know when to call a professional.

Often, professional services are more reasonable and affordable than you might imagine. Making a few calls can potentially free up some time and energy for the rest of your project.

Good luck with your home remodel! We hope it’s a rewarding experience that pays dividends for you for years to come.

While you’re preparing for your remodel, be sure to explore how adding smart home technology is an affordable way to increase the comfort and security of your home.

Learn more about improving your home

• Why Smart Home Tech is a Popular Home Improvement Trend
• Why You Need to Make Smart Home Tech Part of Your Remodel
• Home Energy-Savings Calculator: Smart Products Save You Money