Wondering Where to Begin With Home Renovation? Here's Your Guide to Getting Started

By Mark Soto

October 07, 2024

One way to achieve your dream home without buying a new one is by completing home renovations. Home improvement projects can make your home more cozy to live in, improve the aesthetics and even increase the home value if you plan on selling one day.

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But if you're here, you probably know all that already. The main question on your mind is where to begin with those renovations. We know the secret, and it falls in line with what Mark Twain once said: The secret of getting ahead is getting started.

What’s the First Step in Renovating a House?

The first step in renovating your home is figuring out your budget and goals.

Balance Your Budget Based on Project Costs

All home improvement projects — from kitchen to bathroom remodeling and basement conversions to garage door replacements and painting — come in at different price points. It's also important to note that not all renovation projects are created equal. It all depends on what needs to be done. For instance, with bathroom remodeling, upgrading fixtures costs much less than adding cabinet space or installing a new shower. Painting the interior of your home costs less than painting the exterior.

Once you have a good idea of what each renovation project in your home might cost, you can prioritize from there. It may make sense for you to start with the $50,000 kitchen upgrade and work backward to putting new flooring in the hallway and painting the garage. For other homeowners, going with the cheapest upgrades first can be more affordable.

Think About Your Goals

Apart from your budget, you should also determine what your goals are. If you want to feel more comfortable during the winter or summer, projects like adding or replacing home insulation and new windows help better regulate the temperatures in all areas of your home, providing more comfort and improving energy efficiency. This helps keep your home warm when it’s cold outside and cooler when it’s hot.

If you’re mostly focused on the aesthetic appeal of things, projects like replacing old garage doors, painting the exterior and interior or installing new siding have the biggest effects. Hiring an interior designer can also help you figure out what renovations can make your house look the best. To increase the value of your home, one of the biggest cost returns for home improvement is interior painting. Refinishing your hardwood floor instead of completely replacing it can also provide a decent ROI.

In What Order Should You Renovate a House?

If you’re short on time or have a lower budget and want to focus mostly on repairs, there is an order of importance to follow.

The structural components of your home should take higher precedence over more cosmetic features. Any problems or cracks in the foundations should be prioritized as they can have a significant impact on the structural integrity of your home. If you notice any water leaks from the roof or water pipes, you should focus on getting those fixed. Older heating or electrical systems should be upgraded. After you complete home repairs that benefit the longevity and security of your home, then you can focus on the fun stuff.

How to Plan a Home Renovation: Step by Step

You've figured out where you're going to begin and what you want done. The next step is finding a contractor you can trust. Finding the right contractor can make the entire process run smoothly and faster. Call around to get estimates for the project at hand, and talk to potential hires about how they can help you realize your renovation.

You’ll then need to look into whether you need a permit for the job. Renovations like adding insulation, replacing doors and windows and landscaping might not require a permit, but others that involve structural work like replacing the electrical system, specific shower and toilet remodels and adding decks might require one. One of the benefits of working with a professional is that they can apply for a permit on your behalf and ensure the work follows all the local building regulations.

The last step is to simply schedule when the work should be done. You’ll discuss this with your contractor to see when they’re free to start and get an estimate of the time it can take to complete it. Even the most planned-out projects can have random delays, so account for some extra time.

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Can You Renovate a House While Living in It?

In most cases, you can. However, some renovations might limit your access to appliances or rooms you use every day. If you’re doing a full bathroom remodel, this might mean you don't have access to your toilet or shower for a few days. Any electrical work might mean that the power will be off during certain times of the day. Plumbing work means that the water might not be running, either.

How Long Does Home Remodeling Take?

The length of a home project greatly varies and can take anywhere from half a day to multiple weeks. If you’re hiring contractors, the work may go much faster than if you were to do it yourself. For example, painting a room in your home may only take a day. On the other hand, something complicated, like a shower remodel, can take three days to a week — and that’s if you hire a professional to take care of it.

If time is of the essence, you should take the project timeline into account before selecting a remodeling project.

DIY or Professional?

It can be tempting to do a renovation yourself to save money, but some renovations are best left to the professionals. Smaller-scale home renovations like painting a room, changing light fixtures or replacing the showerhead might be suitable DIY projects.

A good rule of thumb to follow is that if anything involves performing any type of electrical or plumbing work, a licensed contractor is the best way to go about it. Changes to these complex and often delicate systems can have a substantial negative impact if you’re not careful or licensed to do so.

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