New Homeowners' Renovation Checklist: No More Mistakes
A home renovation process is rewarding and fulfilling only when you execute it correctly. The transformation of your home into a new space is no less than an adventure filled with risks. This mainly applies to new homeowners without an idea of what to expect from a home renovation process. However, you don’t have to wait for the failure of your dream project to make improvements. This article will take you through the homeowner’s checklist before finalizing a home renovation project.
One of the biggest reasons for the downfall is diving straight into the process without prior knowledge. Hence, this article will keep you from disappointments and hiccups in the project. Before you learn about the renovation's checklist, it is essential to understand what could go wrong with the project.
Keep reading to understand the fundamentals and make a wise choice!
What could go wrong with a home renovation project?
It is difficult to imagine your dream project going downhill. However, there are chances you might have to face an unexpected situation while executing the idea.
One of the reasons for not being able to estimate the loss is needing the idea of loopholes. From wrong budgeting to improper planning, you have to handle several loose strings before starting the home renovation.
Hence, below are some pointers that highlight the things that could go wrong with a home renovation process:
- Budget: Cost escalation must be on your mind when you start a project or make modifications during the execution. It might seem minor, but small escalations can pile up and create a large hole in your pocket. Thus, make sure you don’t go overboard with accessories and plumbing parts.
- Poor quality: In the cost-cutting process, you may incur a heavy loss in the long run. While renovation companies try to fit the execution into your budget, they hardly guide you about the problems in the long run. Therefore, you must look closely at the materials and maintain open communication with your service provider.
- Deadline extension: If you are planning an urgent renovation, you must rethink the idea. Many renovation companies make big promises and fail to deliver the project on time. It is often a bad idea to hand over a project with an urgent deadline. Hence, make sure you have enough time on your hand when you plan a home renovation project.
Even though these signs are alarming, you must never return from taking the big step toward your dream project. Keeping the above factors in mind, it is vital to chalk out a proper plan and have a checklist in hand.
This will not only ensure the proper execution of the project but also set realistic expectations for you. The following section discusses the essential renovation checklist you need to have with yourself for a better outcome.
10 Things to have on your renovation checklist before starting out
There is a vast difference between the renovation process you see on television and the one that takes place. A little under-preparedness can become a stressful project situation with multiple mishaps.
While it requires a lot of time and energy, you can get it right on the first attempt if you consider having the following things on your checklist.
1. Create your plan - Ho Renovation Checklist
Do you know why renovating a home is more complex than designing a new one? It is because the former process does not begin with a blank canvas. Additionally, some fixed elements impose limitations, and you cannot completely change them.
To do away with the tedious discussions with a renovation company, having your own plan in place is better. Whether space or material cost – it is essential to keep a range of estimates to grab the most affordable deal with a renovation company.
In addition to being generous, you must also be realistic and leave room to accommodate multiple options. Without a detailed plan, you are likely to forget your initial goals. Hence, brain dumping and organizing it later is the only way to curate your action plan.
Additionally, this will be useful for the service providers to understand your requirements and offer you the best possible deal.
2. Budget
As mentioned already, knowing what you want and how much you can spend makes the renovation plan ten times easier.
To be straightforward, the interior design idea on Pinterest might look fascinating, but the numbers may need to be better with you. Hence, the best way to get an estimate is to examine the hardware, material, and labour costs yourself.
All these tasks might seem daunting, but getting quotes from the renovation company and comparing them with your estimate will give you a better insight. Additionally, you need to have a contingency amount to make up for unwanted mishaps. This is something most people miss while planning the budget, and it lands you in a panic.
3. Deadlines and schedules
When it comes to setting a realistic timeframe, it not only stands for the entire project but also for each project task. This is because some makeovers require longer working hours while some of them are easier.
Considering this situation, it is best to allot deadlines based on tasks and make the work more sustainable for the workers. Moreover, such scheduling will keep the work going at a steady pace so you can monitor the progress effectively.
One of the biggest lessons you can take from the experience of other homeowners is that renovation projects often take longer than expected. From weather conditions to the availability of the materials – there are multiple factors that might delay the project and extend the waiting period.
Pro tip: You can assign the project by dividing them into 2-3 parts for effective completion. This will help you maintain a comfortable arrangement alongside renovating the space.
4. Permits for renovation
In many cities, getting permits for upgrading your ho or building additional structures is mandatory. Hence, it is essential to consult with a legal team and convey these requirements to your renovation company.
While many renovation firms don’t pay much attention to legal matters, a reliable one offers these services in the package. These services involve looking after building codes and ensuring the renovation complies with them. Without looking after these matters, you may encounter multiple difficulties while selling the home or proceeding with renovation.
It is always safe to follow the minimum requirements, codes, and standards for the smooth completion of the project. Furthermore, if the company fails to educate you about these regulatory norms, you might become a violator.
5. Format of the project
Depending on your budget and preference, you can choose between DIY and expert renovation services. These options are suitable for people who have specific requirements related to renovation.
For example, if you love sustainable elements and want a hint of eco friendliness, you can opt for a DIY format for renovation. As a result, the project will be easier for the workers and reduce your expenditure. This is because a DIY project is more accessible to execute with minimum labour skills than a construction project.
On the other hand, if you have attention to detail, hiring an expert would be the best idea. This will ensure that your vision is executed flawlessly and will remain durable in the long run. Even though DIY seems better for personalization and affordability, consulting and hiring experts will do no harm.
Additionally, it is best to rely on experts if you are not confident about completing a task. Not paying attention to this will cost you more money in repairing the mistakes or improving them.
6. Curation of proper contract
Grabbing the best deal is pleasant as long as you have your contracts in place. Thus, to avoid conflicts and complications, you must constantly push the renovation company to curate an airtight agreement.
Contracts are helpful because they secure the deal and lay out the solution for problems beyond human control. Below are the essential elements that a valid contract must cover:
- Final amount to be paid and the schedule for releasing each payment
- Timeframe of the work and deadline for each task
- Scope of the work that a contractor or the service provider must deliver
- Possible penalties that a service provider must pay when the provider fails to deliver the promised work or misses a deadline
Remember that all these clauses and commitments must be written and agreed upon on paper to avoid confusion. Such a process not only secures your investment but also prevents the service provider from attempting to scam you.
7. Crosscheck the functionality
While it is fancy to see a design in a picture, you must make sure that it works for your space and remains functional. Alongside hiring skilled labour from a trustworthy renovation company, you must also opt for a better technology stack. This ensures you plan the space and storage effectively without leaving any room for mistakes.
An AR-powered technology helps you understand the layout without struggling at the time of installation. Such technology improves the outcome and assures you of how well the outcome will function in your space. This further allows you to consider small elements like comfortable spacing, the opening of the drawer, and the placement of other components in the fridge.
8. Planning the space
In many cases, homeowners prefer a design that is not suitable for their current arrangement. However, the only solution to overcome this problem is to plan your space with the help of professionals. In this type of renovation, you need to maximize your space for better project execution.
In addition to bringing the best out of a project, it also allows you to make a higher pitch while selling the home. This is because the buyers and prospects are looking for sufficient space and storage in the new ho.
Moreover, planning the space also helps you decide if you need intelligent cabinets to accommodate your belongings or if a traditional design will fulfill your needs.
9. Testing the materials and colours
Leaving everything to your service provider is a positive sign for them but a risky step for you. A slight deviation in colour could result in significant disappointment in the outcome. Hence, you must make sure to check the samples, test them on your walls, and align them with your materials.
Creating a mood board before trying the colours will help you understand the look of your wall after painting. Additionally, you can test the overall look in light variations and multiple layers and match it with various décor elements to finalize the complete look.
10. Make arrangements for the renovation phase
Any home renovation project calls for adjustments and separate arrangements for the people living in the home. While it seems like a small arrangement, it significantly affects the quality of life.
Everything goes for a toss, from sleep to hygiene, when there is a renovation project at home. As a result, the entire environment becomes frustrating because of constant noise, dust, machines, and paints.
Depending on how long your project will run, it is essential to make optimal arrangements for your family members to avoid feeling out of place. An alternative stay or a separate kitchen space will help keep things organized. Doing this will also allow the workers to complete the tasks without hesitation.
Summing up
There is no denying that home renovation is a big step and involves a significant change in the routine and environment. However, with better planning and management strategy, you can sail through this phase without questioning your decision.
From budgeting to contracts and the format of the project – you can look after each element in the checklist one by one. It might seem time-consuming initially, but you will get the desirable results from this effort.
Additionally, an accomplished home renovation project is extremely rewarding. After all, feeling at home in your living space is most comforting.
Looking for upgrading kitchen cabinets in Calgary? Whatever your budget, whatever your style, our kitchen cabinet design professionals are here to help bring your vision to life. With over 50+ years of combined experience in cabinetry and design, our team at Zen Living has the skills and knowledge you need to turn your dreams into reality. Whether you're looking for a complete renovation or a simple refresh, we are here to help.
To get started, simply fill out our form for a free consultation, or you can give us a call at (403) 720-1928 for free design consultation. Our team at Zen Living Kitchen & Bath is eager to work with you and hear all about your project ideas. We are dedicated to turning your vision into a reality.
One of the biggest reasons for the downfall is diving straight into the process without prior knowledge. Hence, this article will keep you from disappointments and hiccups in the project. Before you learn about the renovation's checklist, it is essential to understand what could go wrong with the project.
Keep reading to understand the fundamentals and make a wise choice!
What could go wrong with a home renovation project?
It is difficult to imagine your dream project going downhill. However, there are chances you might have to face an unexpected situation while executing the idea.
One of the reasons for not being able to estimate the loss is needing the idea of loopholes. From wrong budgeting to improper planning, you have to handle several loose strings before starting the home renovation.
Hence, below are some pointers that highlight the things that could go wrong with a home renovation process:
- Budget: Cost escalation must be on your mind when you start a project or make modifications during the execution. It might seem minor, but small escalations can pile up and create a large hole in your pocket. Thus, make sure you don’t go overboard with accessories and plumbing parts.
- Poor quality: In the cost-cutting process, you may incur a heavy loss in the long run. While renovation companies try to fit the execution into your budget, they hardly guide you about the problems in the long run. Therefore, you must look closely at the materials and maintain open communication with your service provider.
- Deadline extension: If you are planning an urgent renovation, you must rethink the idea. Many renovation companies make big promises and fail to deliver the project on time. It is often a bad idea to hand over a project with an urgent deadline. Hence, make sure you have enough time on your hand when you plan a home renovation project.
Even though these signs are alarming, you must never return from taking the big step toward your dream project. Keeping the above factors in mind, it is vital to chalk out a proper plan and have a checklist in hand.
This will not only ensure the proper execution of the project but also set realistic expectations for you. The following section discusses the essential renovation checklist you need to have with yourself for a better outcome.
10 Things to have on your renovation checklist before starting out
There is a vast difference between the renovation process you see on television and the one that takes place. A little under-preparedness can become a stressful project situation with multiple mishaps.
While it requires a lot of time and energy, you can get it right on the first attempt if you consider having the following things on your checklist.
1. Create your plan - Ho Renovation Checklist
Do you know why renovating a home is more complex than designing a new one? It is because the former process does not begin with a blank canvas. Additionally, some fixed elements impose limitations, and you cannot completely change them.
To do away with the tedious discussions with a renovation company, having your own plan in place is better. Whether space or material cost – it is essential to keep a range of estimates to grab the most affordable deal with a renovation company.
In addition to being generous, you must also be realistic and leave room to accommodate multiple options. Without a detailed plan, you are likely to forget your initial goals. Hence, brain dumping and organizing it later is the only way to curate your action plan.
Additionally, this will be useful for the service providers to understand your requirements and offer you the best possible deal.
2. Budget
As mentioned already, knowing what you want and how much you can spend makes the renovation plan ten times easier.
To be straightforward, the interior design idea on Pinterest might look fascinating, but the numbers may need to be better with you. Hence, the best way to get an estimate is to examine the hardware, material, and labour costs yourself.
All these tasks might seem daunting, but getting quotes from the renovation company and comparing them with your estimate will give you a better insight. Additionally, you need to have a contingency amount to make up for unwanted mishaps. This is something most people miss while planning the budget, and it lands you in a panic.
3. Deadlines and schedules
When it comes to setting a realistic timeframe, it not only stands for the entire project but also for each project task. This is because some makeovers require longer working hours while some of them are easier.
Considering this situation, it is best to allot deadlines based on tasks and make the work more sustainable for the workers. Moreover, such scheduling will keep the work going at a steady pace so you can monitor the progress effectively.
One of the biggest lessons you can take from the experience of other homeowners is that renovation projects often take longer than expected. From weather conditions to the availability of the materials – there are multiple factors that might delay the project and extend the waiting period.
Pro tip: You can assign the project by dividing them into 2-3 parts for effective completion. This will help you maintain a comfortable arrangement alongside renovating the space.
4. Permits for renovation
In many cities, getting permits for upgrading your ho or building additional structures is mandatory. Hence, it is essential to consult with a legal team and convey these requirements to your renovation company.
While many renovation firms don’t pay much attention to legal matters, a reliable one offers these services in the package. These services involve looking after building codes and ensuring the renovation complies with them. Without looking after these matters, you may encounter multiple difficulties while selling the home or proceeding with renovation.
It is always safe to follow the minimum requirements, codes, and standards for the smooth completion of the project. Furthermore, if the company fails to educate you about these regulatory norms, you might become a violator.
5. Format of the project
Depending on your budget and preference, you can choose between DIY and expert renovation services. These options are suitable for people who have specific requirements related to renovation.
For example, if you love sustainable elements and want a hint of eco friendliness, you can opt for a DIY format for renovation. As a result, the project will be easier for the workers and reduce your expenditure. This is because a DIY project is more accessible to execute with minimum labour skills than a construction project.
On the other hand, if you have attention to detail, hiring an expert would be the best idea. This will ensure that your vision is executed flawlessly and will remain durable in the long run. Even though DIY seems better for personalization and affordability, consulting and hiring experts will do no harm.
Additionally, it is best to rely on experts if you are not confident about completing a task. Not paying attention to this will cost you more money in repairing the mistakes or improving them.
6. Curation of proper contract
Grabbing the best deal is pleasant as long as you have your contracts in place. Thus, to avoid conflicts and complications, you must constantly push the renovation company to curate an airtight agreement.
Contracts are helpful because they secure the deal and lay out the solution for problems beyond human control. Below are the essential elements that a valid contract must cover:
- Final amount to be paid and the schedule for releasing each payment
- Timeframe of the work and deadline for each task
- Scope of the work that a contractor or the service provider must deliver
- Possible penalties that a service provider must pay when the provider fails to deliver the promised work or misses a deadline
Remember that all these clauses and commitments must be written and agreed upon on paper to avoid confusion. Such a process not only secures your investment but also prevents the service provider from attempting to scam you.
7. Crosscheck the functionality
While it is fancy to see a design in a picture, you must make sure that it works for your space and remains functional. Alongside hiring skilled labour from a trustworthy renovation company, you must also opt for a better technology stack. This ensures you plan the space and storage effectively without leaving any room for mistakes.
An AR-powered technology helps you understand the layout without struggling at the time of installation. Such technology improves the outcome and assures you of how well the outcome will function in your space. This further allows you to consider small elements like comfortable spacing, the opening of the drawer, and the placement of other components in the fridge.
8. Planning the space
In many cases, homeowners prefer a design that is not suitable for their current arrangement. However, the only solution to overcome this problem is to plan your space with the help of professionals. In this type of renovation, you need to maximize your space for better project execution.
In addition to bringing the best out of a project, it also allows you to make a higher pitch while selling the home. This is because the buyers and prospects are looking for sufficient space and storage in the new ho.
Moreover, planning the space also helps you decide if you need intelligent cabinets to accommodate your belongings or if a traditional design will fulfill your needs.
9. Testing the materials and colours
Leaving everything to your service provider is a positive sign for them but a risky step for you. A slight deviation in colour could result in significant disappointment in the outcome. Hence, you must make sure to check the samples, test them on your walls, and align them with your materials.
Creating a mood board before trying the colours will help you understand the look of your wall after painting. Additionally, you can test the overall look in light variations and multiple layers and match it with various décor elements to finalize the complete look.
10. Make arrangements for the renovation phase
Any home renovation project calls for adjustments and separate arrangements for the people living in the home. While it seems like a small arrangement, it significantly affects the quality of life.
Everything goes for a toss, from sleep to hygiene, when there is a renovation project at home. As a result, the entire environment becomes frustrating because of constant noise, dust, machines, and paints.
Depending on how long your project will run, it is essential to make optimal arrangements for your family members to avoid feeling out of place. An alternative stay or a separate kitchen space will help keep things organized. Doing this will also allow the workers to complete the tasks without hesitation.
Summing up
There is no denying that home renovation is a big step and involves a significant change in the routine and environment. However, with better planning and management strategy, you can sail through this phase without questioning your decision.
From budgeting to contracts and the format of the project – you can look after each element in the checklist one by one. It might seem time-consuming initially, but you will get the desirable results from this effort.
Additionally, an accomplished home renovation project is extremely rewarding. After all, feeling at home in your living space is most comforting.
Looking for upgrading kitchen cabinets in Calgary? Whatever your budget, whatever your style, our kitchen cabinet design professionals are here to help bring your vision to life. With over 50+ years of combined experience in cabinetry and design, our team at Zen Living has the skills and knowledge you need to turn your dreams into reality. Whether you're looking for a complete renovation or a simple refresh, we are here to help.
To get started, simply fill out our form for a free consultation, or you can give us a call at (403) 720-1928 for free design consultation. Our team at Zen Living Kitchen & Bath is eager to work with you and hear all about your project ideas. We are dedicated to turning your vision into a reality.
