5 Tips for a Successful Home Renovation
If you’re considering a home renovation, you’re likely riding the rollercoaster of excitement and anxiety. Remodels hold the promise of transforming your home and boosting its value, but let’s face it — they can turn into a wild ride if you’re not prepared.
Having taken on my fair share of personal renovation projects, I know firsthand that it’s no walk in Dolores Park. But 17+ years of design experience has taught me that with the right approach (and an experienced team), you can conquer your home renovation without losing your sanity.
Tip #1. Plan Ahead
I know it’s tempting to dive right in, but it’s essential to have a clear plan in place before any hammers swing. The best place to begin? Hire an interior designer… .and I’m not just saying that.
Designers have the experience and industry knowledge to help you navigate decision-making and investment planning. We’ll help you define your project scope and develop a detailed timeline to keep everything on track. We don’t believe in mysteries.
Once the plan is in place, we will guide you through hiring the rest of the team. Depending on your project, you might need both an architect and a builder. Rest assured, we’ve got your back. We’ll connect you with the best of the best to save you precious time while sparing you unnecessary stress.
Photography Credit: Vivian Johnson Photography
Tip #2. Establish Clear Communication
Your design team can bring your vision to life, but they can’t read your mind. That’s why open and clear communication is essential when it comes to a successful remodel. Throughout the process, make sure to communicate your desires and needs (or have a designer who will advocate for you), ensuring that your voice is heard. After all, it’s your home.
In my own renovation journey, I’ve found that establishing a weekly meeting schedule with my contractor has been a game-changer. For larger projects, it’s even more important for the entire design team to gather on-site regularly. These visits prevent any surprises and provide a light at the end of the renovation tunnel.
Photography Credit: Vivian Johnson Photography
Tip #3. Embrace the Unexpected
Fact: As much as we plan to avoid them, unexpected surprises are part of any renovation journey. But when you’re prepared for the highs and lows, you will weather the storm like a pro. Brace yourself for potential delays, supply shortages, noise, and yes, the inevitable sawdust from living in a construction zone. Better yet, consider temporary lodging during the height of construction. (My family and I are moving out for 4 months while our latest home renovation is underway.)
You could also make a plan and get creative with your daily routine. For example, for those work-from-home warriors, consider an alternate workplace on those extra noisy days. Above all, embrace the chaos, stay flexible, and keep your sights set on the end result. It WILL get better.
Pro Tip: Don’t forget to pop the bubbly and celebrate the milestones along the way. It helps.
Photography Credit: Vivian Johnson Photography
Tip #4. Stay Organized
The secret weapon to conquering your project with ease? Organization. Trust me, when it comes to staying within your investment and avoiding any unnecessary surprises, documenting every single detail is the best solution. This is true before your project begins, while it’s underway, and after it’s complete.
If you have a design team, we’ll do this for you. If you’re doing it on your own, keep track of invoices, contracts, and receipts like your life depends on it. You’ll thank yourself later.
Photography Credit: Vivian Johnson Photography
Tip #5. Be Your Own Advocate
We can’t stress this enough… it’s crucial to establish a clear communication schedule with your contractor and understand how they handle problems and resolve issues. Of course, we can fill this role for you, but if you choose to take on the project yourself, you’ll need to be your own best advocate to spare yourself any costly mistakes.
If you’re wondering what it’s like to have us on your team, we will be your #1 advocate, always looking out for your best interests. When challenges arise, we tackle them head-on with open and direct communication, addressing them in the moment and keeping your project as efficient as possible.
Interested in learning more about what we can do for you? Let’s talk.
Cheers,
Melanie