1. Define Your Goals and Budget:
- Determine the purpose of your renovation. Are you looking to increase your home's value, improve functionality, or enhance aesthetics?
- Create a budget for your project. Be realistic about how much you can afford to spend and leave room for unexpected expenses.
2. Plan and Research:
- Gather inspiration by looking on Pinterest, browsing home design websites, magazines and social media for design ideas.
- Seek out an interior designer to help draw up a layout of what you want to achieve with your renovation.
- Research local building codes, permits, and regulations that may apply to your project.
3. Prioritize and Make a Project List:
- Consider which renovations will have the most significant impact on your home’s value and provide the greatest benefits to your lifestyle, now and in the future.
4. Find Reliable Contractors
- Seek recommendations from friends, family, neighbours or search for reputable contractors or tradespeople with positive online reviews.
- Obtain multiple quotes and references from potential contractors.
- Ensure the contractors you hire are licensed and insured.
- Michelle’s Tip: Ensure you negotiate a holdback at the end for up to 30 days (10%) and obtain all warranties from your contractors.
5. Obtain Necessary Permits:
- Contact your local building department to determine if permits are required for your project.
- If permits are needed, complete the necessary paperwork and pay the fees.
6. Create a Detailed Timeline:
- Develop a project timeline that outlines the start and finish dates for each phase of the renovation.
- Be realistic about the time it will take to complete the project, accounting for potential delays.
- Rent an Airbnb or sublet a condo short-term if the renovations are extensive…and dusty! It will be worth it!
7. Start the Renovation:
- Once you've selected a contractor, signed contracts, and obtained permits, you can begin the renovation.
- Don’t forget to take photos of the before and afters! It’s always very rewarding and great to have when it comes time to sell.
- Monitor the progress closely, communicate regularly with your contractor, and address any issues promptly.
- Keep a record of all receipts and documents related to the renovation for future reference and potential tax purposes.
Remember that home renovations can be disruptive, so be prepared for some inconvenience during the process. Flexibility and patience are essential as unexpected challenges can arise.
With careful planning and execution, your home renovation can transform your living space and increase the value of your property. And if all this sounds overwhelming, consider hiring a design, build, and renovate a firm like Foxglove Design that will handle every aspect outlined above except permitting.
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