It’s finally happening

After years of planning to upgrade your home’s interior, you’ve decided to take the plunge and plan a home renovation.

Before the work begins and your house becomes Grand Central Station for a team of contractors, we’ve got a few simple tips to help streamline the process …

1. Get Clear on the Numbers

As probably you know, renovations can be a big investment – both from a time and financial perspective. This is especially true if you’re transforming the majority of your home vs. just one room. If you or your partner are handy, then you might be able to get away with some DIY work to save some money. Otherwise, you’ll need to plan for a full outsourcing. Make sure to get at least three written quotes from reputable interior designers and budget accordingly for the job.

Pro Tip: The most cost-effective option isn’t always the best. Make sure you’re equally happy with your designer’s portfolio of work, quality of service, and client experience. Paying extra to have someone manage all of the finer details of your project (from planning, to design, to execution) can also be worth its weight in gold!

2. Expect the Unexpected

You know that part in EVERY home reno show where an unexpected issue arises that changes the scope of the project? Well, that can happen in real life too.

That’s not to say that your project should go off the rails. If you’re dealing with professionals, you should never be completely blindsided by crazy costs or delays. With that said, it’s always safe to add some buffer time and money to your project (at least 20%) for surprises. Also, don’t shy away from asking your designer plenty of questions, especially as they relate to your contract.

3. Choose Your Design Style

Your home should reflect your unique tastes and be designed in a style that you’ll love for years. This is where it pays to hire an interior designer; someone who can help you articulate your personal style and weave it into your design.

Not sure if you even have a personal style? Again, this is where you can leverage the expertise of a professional designer. They’ll ask the right questions to uncover your personal preferences and can present you with mood boards, drawings, and 3D renderings to help you reimagine your space in a way that feels like YOU.

4. Plan for the Future

You might be tempted to just think in the present (aka, what you need NOW from your home renovation), but stop to visualize where you see your family 10 years down the road. For example, will the same number of people be living in the home? How might office spaces or other rooms be used differently? What lifestyle changes – such as having more time for travel or outdoor living – do you foresee?

Of course, none of us can predict the future. But pausing to plan for it will help you make smart design choices today that will maximize your home reno investment and serve you for years to come.

5. Ditch the Clutter

If your home reno theme is “out with the old, in with the new,” then make sure to get rid of extra clutter and unused household items that no longer serve you. (Marie Kondo’s, “Does it bring you joy?” question always works well here!) Not only will decluttering before your reno create a clearer path for your contractors, but it will give you a fresh, clean slate when your reno is done.

Before work begins, it’s also helpful to group everyday essentials in one place in your home that won’t be affected by the remodel. Creating a command center far away from the action will make it easier for you to access things like cell phones, chargers, keys, and other daily essentials once your reno is in full swing.

6. Safeguard Kids & Pets

Home renovations can create a danger zone for the little people and furry friends in your life. To keep them away from construction tools, hazardous materials, sharp nails, and other dangers, install baby gates if you don’t already have them. Even if the work will only be happening inside, you’ll also want to be mindful of extra vehicles, traffic, and tools in the driveway.

If you have friends or family who can watch your pets for the duration of your reno (especially if your pets are skittish around strangers), that’s a great option. Otherwise, keep them out of harm’s way using gates.

7. Take a Deep Breath

Even the most well-planned home renovations can disrupt daily life and cause minor inconveniences. Just remember that any short-term stress will be well worth the long-term joy of living in your beautiful, newly renovated home!