Today I’m going to share the three main to-dos homeowners who are considering remodeling should get done before they begin a project.
This is really PRE-remodel homework. If you’re thinking of remodeling, I would suggest you read on.
I’ve written so much on my blog about remodeling design.
I love that I’ve created my own reference library, so to speak, because it keeps me from having to repeat myself and helps to illustrate the points I might want to make with a client. I can just send a link if I need to further bring home what I’m telling them.
My points have usually been detailed with sound design reasoning and images that illustrate what I’m talking about. It helps give my clients confidence to see examples.
Sometimes I’ll remember that I’ve written something and want to send a link to a client or a potential client, but can’t recall which post or what the title was.
I have so many posts about all kinds of remodeling and design topics.
For example, here’s one on selecting paint colors:
Here’s one for kitchen backsplash design.
I’m linking more posts here today on the subject of preparing for your remodel project. I often get inquiries on projects where people still have a lot of homework to do before we can get started.
3 Considerations For Pre-Remodel Homework
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Three basic things need to happen before any designer can begin to help you, or any contractor can give you an idea of how much your project will cost. They are:
1) Establish a scope of the project. You need to make a list. Be thorough, but realistic, about what you can accomplish with the money you have to spend.
2) Develop a realistic idea of a budget you have to work with. Whatever you think you’ve read or know about budgets, know this: it always costs more than you think. HGTV is not a good go-by. (And by the way, add at least 10% to the total because it is always higher than you think.)
3) Define your end goals. What look are you after? What do you want to accomplish? How do you want the space to function and feel like when you are completed with your project? Prioritize your list so that you make sure you can make sure to accomplish the most important items.
Really, most times your budget has the biggest impact on your end goals.
I have often gone into projects where ideas and scope were just all over the place.
Random parts of the house were being included or tossed into the job and budgets did not align with the end results desired. I’ve often turned projects down like that because, really, there is nothing worse than disappointing clients.
When people have budgets that don't allow for their wish lists, they will eventually be disappointed. When people have lots of random ideas and nothing is firmly established yet, then that project will likely be a bit muddy and difficult to navigate.
It will require a lot of time to fine tune the scope and, basically, create the project. It’s better to have the three items mentioned above, done, before you begin.
How to start addressing your pre-remodel homework?
I have some blog posts I've written that might help you get started. Whether you are attacking the design of your own remodel or are about to call in a pro, you might want to check these out to help you build a framework around your project.
Oh, and by the way...
Need some personalized tips on how to approach your project? We can do a quick Q&A right here.
Or, follow on Instagram and subscribe (link in profile there) so you can ask a design question in my Q&A’s.
This blogpost was thoughtfully written by me, Carla Aston, and not by AI, ghostwriters, or guest posters.
Far too often I'll run into someone who is so excited about remodeling their newly purchased home that they fail to consider a laundry list of items within that need to be addressed and included in the scope of the job.