This is for educational purposes only. Please consult renovation experts for your specific projects.
Home improvement projects are exciting, aren’t they? Freshening up your space, whether it’s with a new appliance or a fully remodeled kitchen, can reinvigorate your home and your life. Or maybe, your home needs repairs or maintenance. That’s less fun, but still important. Either way, planning your home remodel can seem daunting. You may wonder where to even start.
What do you want to accomplish with this home improvement project? Whether it’s simply new countertops or a full remodel of a room in your home, make note of everything you want to do.
Look online, in magazines and at home improvement stores to find things you like.
Some things are needs – the things that make your home improvement project worth pursuing. Some are not required but would be nice if possible and fit within your budget. Separate these into different categories.
How much can you afford to spend? Consider your own financial situation and the market value of your home. Take the cost of labor, materials, permits and a contingency fund into account as well.
When do you want this project done? Do some research to find out how long a project like yours typically takes, then consider any unforeseen delays that may occur.
Establish a realistic maximum price you’re willing to spend for the whole project. Consider costs for everything, like planning with an architect, contractors, materials and more. Remember to add 10% - 15% for unforeseen costs.
If you need financing for your home improvement project, explore your options like:
Compare rates at multiple financial institutions and find the best fit for you.
Once you know what type of financing you need, you may be able to get preapproved. That way you know you qualify for the amount you want to spend before you start the project. Plus, in some cases, you can use your preapproval as a bargaining chip with contractors.
Working with a designer or architect is recommended for bigger projects, like remodeling an entire space in your home. Or, if you have design experience, you can do this yourself.
For other larger projects, you may also want to consider the services of a structural engineer.
Sketch out your plans and take accurate measurements. This will help you get accurate contractor bids and get the right materials. If you’re working with a designer or architect, they can help you with this.
Pick out everything you want, from counter tops and floors, to wallpaper and appliances. This is where that earlier research step comes in handy!
Some construction projects require permits and are subject to local regulations. Make sure you have necessary permits before you start work.
Once you find some contractors you’re interested in, meet them to make sure they are a good fit for you. Get bids from each of them.
How you verify contractor credentials and licenses varies from state to state. In Iowa, you can use the Iowa Workforce Development public search, or the State Fire Marshal Division’s license search portal.
Make sure you understand payments schedules and the scope of their work. And avoid large upfront payments.
Once you find a contractor you like and agree on the work and the price, sign the contract. The contractor works for you now.
Make sure your space is safe to undergo your renovations. This may not be necessary for small projects, like simply getting new appliances.
If permits are required, make sure you have them secured before you start work.
Talk to your contractor and make sure your space is clean and ready for work to begin.
Make sure there is a clear expectation for how and when your contractor provides updates to you, and how you can contact them if you have questions.
Set up your payment plan and make sure both you and the contractor are on the same page.
Make sure the work is completed to your satisfaction and that all final punch list items have been completed.
If everything is completed to your liking, make your final payment to your contractor.
Get your invoices and all work records from your contractor. Acquire warranty information for the contractor’s work and all the materials that were purchased for the project.
Once everything is done, paid for and cleaned up, it’s time to enjoy your new space.
Home renovations can be exciting. But they require planning.
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