A home remodeling project is a great way to freshen up your living space. But it’s important to plan carefully, consult licensed professionals early on and get a quote from contractors.

Also, repurpose materials and shop sales to significantly reduce costs. Finally, make sure you have the right insurance coverage to protect yourself from loss.

Budget

Before starting a home remodeling project, homeowners should carefully consider what needs to be done and how much it will cost. The goal is to keep the renovation within budget. Homeowners can help themselves stick to their remodeling budget by separating projects into “must-do” and “would-be nice to do” categories.

The biggest expense for most home remodels is labor. It is important to consider the skills and experience of contractors when calculating labor costs. It is also a good idea to shop around for prices on materials and supplies.

It is always a good idea to have a contingency fund for unexpected expenses. Homeowners should try to set aside 3-5% of their project’s total costs for this purpose. This can be used to cover any unexpected issues that may arise during the home renovation process. It’s best to do this as early on in the project as possible. It will save time and money in the long run.

Design

Remodel design is the first step in any home remodeling project. It involves creating a plan that shows the scope of work and how it will be completed. The design will also help determine the overall cost of the project.

Homeowners that begin a remodel without design plans often end up with unexpected costs later on in construction. These additional costs may include changing the original design, requiring more time to complete the remodel or even needing a permit.

A well-designed remodel will help avoid these issues by providing a clear roadmap for the contractor and homeowner to follow. It will also ensure that the contractor understands the homeowner’s vision and expectations for the project. This will prevent costly changes in the future, which can be both frustrating and expensive for everyone involved. In addition, a good remodel design will allow homeowners to stay updated on progress through a communication portal, such as Buildertrend, used by some design-build remodeling firms.

Permits

As with any project, permits are necessary to ensure your renovation is up-to-code and done correctly. This level of bureaucracy can add time and money to a project, but it’s essential for your safety and the legality of your home.

In general, any construction or renovation project over $5,000 will require a permit in most municipalities. However, this threshold may vary, so it’s best to consult with your local planning and building department.

A contractor can help you with this process by submitting your plans and pulling your permits on your behalf. This will reduce the amount of time you’ll spend on this process and allow your renovation to get started sooner.

As a homeowner, you should be aware that if you perform work without a permit, you could face fines and even need to tear down your renovation. Additionally, if you sell your home, a buyer might require you to pull the proper permits for any work that was performed on the house prior to sale.

Contractors

A professional home remodeling contractor handles all aspects of a renovation, from creating designs to purchasing building materials and handling permits. They also help you select the best contractors for specific elements of your renovation. It is important to get several in-person estimates before selecting a contractor for your project. Ask for a list of references, and be sure to contact each one.

A good contractor will have a network of subcontractors, designers and suppliers that they work with regularly. If you have a problem with one of these people, your contractor will find someone else to handle the job quickly.

Professional contractors offer a level of project management that is difficult to match in DIY projects. They ensure that your renovation stays on schedule and within budget. They also make sure that the renovation meets local building codes and that all permits are issued on time. This saves homeowners time and money. In addition, it can increase the value of their homes.