5 decisions you should make early if you're planning on renovating

No matter the size of the project, renovating your home is a process that requires constant decision making. However, there are critical decisions that need to be made early on in the process if a renovation is to be stress-free. 

Making such decisions early enough helps in preventing mistakes that might crop up in the process if they were left to a later stage. This is where you find mistakes costing a lot of money and time to correct. For instance, changing the design or materials in the middle of the project can disrupt the whole renovation plan. 

Here are five decisions to make before embarking on the journey.

1. The purpose of the project

People renovate for many different reasons. It could be to create more space, to repair some parts of the house or to modernise your home for sale or for own comfort. It is important to decide on the reason why you are renovating. That way, you will have a clear picture of what needs to be done. For instance, if you are renovating for resale, the bathroom and kitchen are the focal points for majority homebuyers. 

You will then have the confidence to pay more attention to bathroom remodelling and kitchen remodelling to increase the value of the home. If you need to increase space, you will have an easy time deciding whether you need to add an extra room or increase storage cabinets to free up more space in the home.

2. The budget

Having a budget in place will inform several other decisions including the materials, design and professional help among others. You need to decide on the amount that you can set aside for the project early enough to avoid running into money problems in the middle of the project. It is necessary that you are honest and realistic when making your budget. 

Underestimating the budget might compromise the quality of the design while overstating might throw you into unplanned debt.  Ensure that you have incorporated every expense needed and set aside a contingency fund in case some unexpected situations come up in the process.

3. Whether to hire professionals

Some projects require minimal skills that you can easily ace yourself. However, there are others that require the help of a professional. Deciding whether you are going to do all the work yourself or hire a professional should be done early.

Lay out all the work required for the project to be completed and weigh up your options. If you decide to go solo, consider if you can do such works as electrical or plumbing without making a mess. Remember that bringing a professional, later on, can really impact your budget.

4. Materials

Deciding on the materials early will help your project in two ways. One, you will able to have a more accurate budget on the materials. Secondly, you can make an early order so that you have the materials with you when the project starts. Ordering late means waiting for them to be shipped and delivered, which might delay your timelines. Decide on the flooring materials, appliances, fixtures, colour, finishes and even furniture if you will need any.

5. Timeline

Renovating a home is a lot of work. It will, without a doubt, disrupt your life while it's underway. You will be required to be hands-on on the project to ensure everything goes as planned. Depending on the size of the project, you might be required to look for an alternative place to stay in the meantime. 

How will it affect your busy calendar? Will it have major effects on your work life? These are some of the questions that should guide you in deciding the perfect timeline for the project. The bottom line, however, is that it is important that the decision be made before the project starts.

Renovating a home can be a success or downright stressful depending on the amount of planning done. It is important to research the project before starting the journey. You will gain valuable insights into every detail that you need to incorporate in the project. That includes the materials, designs, modern trends and the best professionals to complete the work with fair costs.

Story by: Jennifer Monroe