There are many different approaches to starting a remodeling project. Hopefully we can make it easy with this short checklist of tasks to accomplish before taking the plunge into a remodeling project. There are six crucial steps to beginning your remodeling project. Read below to find out more about each one and how crucial it is to the process.
Choose a design professional
Start by hiring an architect or interior designer, or maybe even both. This will help you formulate an idea of how you want your project to turn out in the end. Usually, you will sit down with the professional for an informal meeting, at which time they will begin to discuss your goals and aspirations with you and decide how they can facilitate making that happen.
Create a plan
Next, you will make a schematic design of the changes that you envision for your home. Usually this involves a rough layout of the floor plan and some simple views of the exterior of the home, if there is to be an addition. It takes time for the design professional to work on these, and then usually another week or so for the homeowners to consider them and make decisions. The initial design phase can take several months, but it is integrally important to the success of the project.
Interview contractors
Find the right person to do the job. Bring a final schematic of the plan with you to discuss with various contractors during the initial interview. Ask them pointed and specific questions, and be sure to ask them their best price for the job. Additionally, ensure that they are a reputable contractor in your area or else you could end up with a half-finished project.
Go shopping
While the contractors begin their preliminary work on the project, make use of your time and go shopping for essential fixtures or items that they will be installing throughout the project. Depending on how large the remodel is, this shopping phase can take months, so be proactive and get going today!
Get permits
Depending on the scope of your project and where it’s located, permitting can take a day, months or even years. Be sure to be proactive and plan ahead to ensure that you will have the permits you need. Permit fees can range from a few hundred dollars to thousands of dollars, depending on where you live and what your city and county require.
Begin the project
Now you have all the tools you need. So get out there and begin your home’s transformation!
