The Beginning Stages of Planning a Home Remodel: A Step-by-Step Guide

Remodeling your home can be an exciting yet overwhelming endeavor. Whether you're upgrading a single room or tackling a full-house renovation, proper planning is crucial to ensuring the project runs smoothly. The beginning stages set the foundation for success, helping you avoid unnecessary stress and budget overruns. 

At HillsBuild, we always recommend getting started on your journey as soon as possible.  Six months is the perfect time to start shopping for contractors.  At three months out, it’s crunch time and you’ll be hard pressed to find quality contractors who have availability.  Under 3 months?  Not from us.  

Here’s a guide to walk you through the initial steps of planning your remodel.

1. Define Your Goals and Vision

Before diving into the logistics of your remodel, it’s essential to have a clear understanding of why you’re remodeling and what you hope to achieve. Ask yourself:

- What is the purpose of the remodel? Are you seeking more space, modernizing the design, or improving functionality?

- Are there any specific features or design styles you’re passionate about?

- How will the remodel enhance your home’s value, comfort, or efficiency?

Creating a list of priorities and design inspirations (like those found on Pinterest or Instagram) will provide direction for the rest of the planning process. Be specific about your needs, such as storage solutions, energy-efficient upgrades, or layout changes.

2. Set a Realistic Budget

Once your goals are clear, it’s time to talk numbers. Your budget is the backbone of your remodeling project, guiding everything from the scale of changes to the materials used. Here’s how to approach it:

- Research Costs: Get a general idea of costs by researching similar projects. Look at national averages, but keep in mind that costs will vary based on your location and the scope of work.

- Set a Contingency Fund: Unexpected expenses are common in remodeling, so it’s wise to set aside 10–20% of your budget as a buffer for surprises.

- Balance Wants and Needs: Prioritize essential updates over aesthetic choices. For example, upgrading electrical or plumbing systems might take precedence over cosmetic finishes.

Remember, a well-defined budget will help you communicate clearly with contractors and avoid overspending.

3. Choose the Right Professionals

Even if you’re a DIY enthusiast, most remodeling projects benefit from professional help. Deciding who to hire—an architect, designer, or contractor—will depend on the scale and complexity of your remodel.

- Architects: Best for major remodels involving structural changes, additions, or intricate designs.

- Interior Designers: Ideal if you're focusing on style, layout, and functionality within the existing structure.

- Contractors: Essential for managing, executing the project, handling labor, permits, and materials.

Take time to interview multiple professionals, check their references, and review their portfolios. You want to find someone you trust and who understands your vision.

4. Understand Permits and Regulations

Before any hammer is swung, you’ll need to ensure your remodel complies with local building codes and regulations. Depending on your project, permits may be required for:

- Structural changes

- Electrical or plumbing updates

- Additions or extensions

- Exterior changes (like windows, siding, or decks)

Contact your local building department or ask your contractor to clarify what permits are needed.

5. Create a Timeline

A well-planned timeline is crucial to keep your remodel on track. Understand that construction timelines can vary based on the scope of work, availability of materials, and even weather conditions. Here's what to consider:

- Project Length: Be realistic about how long each phase will take, from demolition to final touches.

- Material Delivery: Factor in how long it takes to order and receive custom or specialty materials.

- Seasonal Factors: Consider weather if your project involves exterior work, as certain seasons may cause delays.

Discuss your expected timeline with your contractor and ensure everyone is on the same page about deadlines and expectations.

6. Prepare for the Disruption

Remodeling can disrupt your daily routine, especially if you’re remodeling high-traffic areas like kitchens or bathrooms. It’s important to plan ahead to minimize the inconvenience. Some strategies include:

- Temporary Living Arrangements: Decide whether you’ll stay in your home during the remodel or move out temporarily. If staying, plan for makeshift spaces for cooking, sleeping, or bathing.

- Dust and Noise: Understand that noise, dust, and debris are unavoidable during construction. Protect your belongings and set up barriers to limit dust spread.  At HillsBuild, we take dust very seriously.  We utilize HEPA filtration and zip walls at all phases of construction when dust is an issue.  Your home will always be left cleaner than we found it. 

- Clear Communication: Establish open lines of communication with your contractor to address any concerns or issues as they arise.

7. Focus on Sustainability

As sustainability becomes more important, many homeowners are integrating eco-friendly features into their remodels. Consider incorporating:

- Energy-efficient appliances and lighting

- Sustainable building materials like reclaimed wood or recycled countertops

- Smart home technology to improve energy usage and reduce waste

These upgrades not only reduce your environmental impact but can also lower utility costs and increase your home’s value.

Final Thoughts

The early stages of planning a remodel are all about preparation. Taking the time to carefully plan your budget, timeline, and team of professionals will pay off in the long run, helping to ensure your project is completed on time and within budget. With your vision clear and your goals defined, you’ll be well on your way to a successful and satisfying remodel.

At HillsBuild, we want to be your partners during this exciting part of your life.  Let us take the stress out of the equation and get straight to the good stuff.  

Happy remodeling!