How to Prepare for a Home Renovation or Remodel

Beginning a major home renovation can be both exciting and stress-inducing. Transforming your living space to better suit your needs or to enhance its aesthetic appeal is a rewarding endeavor, but it comes with significant preparation and sometimes inconvenience. Especially if your renovation involves every floor of your house and possibly some exterior work or an expansion, you’re looking at a project that could take 6-12 months and cost thousands of dollars. Proper preparation is crucial to ensure the process is as smooth and efficient as possible!

Understanding the Scope of a Major Home Renovation

A comprehensive renovation means substantial changes and disruptions. If you stay in your home during this period, it can significantly increase the cost and duration of the project. The construction crew will need to pack and unpack their tools daily, adhere to limited working hours, and navigate around your presence, all of which slow down progress. When the house is vacant, tools and materials can remain in place, and work can proceed uninterrupted, including weekends. This can shave weeks off the timeline and reduce labor costs.

The Inside Out Home, Great Falls, Virginia, AV Architects + Builders, Photography by Maxwell Mackenzie

Key Steps to Prepare for Your Home Renovation

1. Completed Architectural Plans

The first step in preparing for your renovation is to have completed architectural plans. These plans serve as the blueprint for your project, detailing every aspect of the renovation. They are essential for obtaining accurate quotes from builders and for securing necessary permits.

For more information on architectural plans and their importance, check out our article: Are Floor Plans Enough to Build a House?

2. Make All Material Selections

Before construction begins, all material selections should be finalized. This includes everything from flooring and tiles to fixtures and finishes. Making these decisions ahead of time prevents delays and ensures that materials are available when needed. It also helps in accurately estimating costs and staying within budget.

3. Obtain a Fixed Price from the Builder

Having a fixed price contract with your builder is critical. This ensures that you have a clear understanding of the costs involved and protects you from unexpected expenses. The fixed price should include all labor, materials, and any other costs associated with the renovation.

4. Secure all County Building Permits

Building permits are required for most major renovations. They ensure that the work complies with local building codes and regulations. Securing these permits can sometimes be a lengthy process, so it's important to start early and ensure all paperwork is in order.

5. Order All Materials

Once material selections are made, order all materials well in advance. Supply chain delays are common, and having materials on hand when construction begins helps keep the project on schedule.

Planning Your Move-Out

Once these five critical steps are complete, you can plan your move-out. Vacating your home during a major renovation is highly recommended to minimize disruption and expedite the process.

Benefits of Moving Out During a Home Renovation or Remodel:

Moving out during the renovation has several benefits:

• Faster Completion: Without the need to accommodate your presence, the construction crew can work more efficiently.
• Cost Savings: Reducing the duration of the project lowers labor costs and can help keep the project within budget.
• Reduced Stress: Avoiding the daily disruptions of construction makes the renovation process less stressful for your family.

Where to Move During Renovation:

One cost-effective option is to move in with family or friends. This arrangement can provide a temporary solution without the need for additional housing expenses.

Renting a house or apartment is another viable option. This provides your family with a private space and allows you to stay within your preferred area.

For short-term flexibility, consider renting an extended stay hotel or an Airbnb. These options can offer the comfort of home with the convenience of a hotel.

Staying Within School Districts

If you have children, you may need to remain within their school district. This ensures that their education is not disrupted and maintains a sense of normalcy for them.

The Importance of Preparing for a Home Renovation Project

The key to a successful renovation is thorough preparation. Completing the initial five steps sets the foundation for a smooth project. Proper planning minimizes the time you need to be out of your home and reduces the risk of delays and unexpected costs. 

Preparing for a home renovation is a significant undertaking, but with careful planning and organization, you can set your project up for success. By completing architectural plans, making material selections, obtaining a fixed price from the builder, securing permits, and ordering materials, you lay the groundwork for a smooth and efficient renovation. Moving out during the process not only speeds up the work but also reduces stress and potential costs. At AV Architects + Builders, we believe that thorough preparation and planning are the keys to a successful renovation, allowing you to enjoy your newly transformed home as quickly as possible.