If you’re planning a home remodel, services are available to assist you in planning the entire project. However, even with guidelines for what you’ll need, the process can seem overwhelming.
Before you get started, here are some of the key things to consider when planning a major home improvement project:
Before you dive in to the details, consider the big picture. What is the main goal of your project? Do you want to add value to your home to make it more attractive to potential buyers? Or do you want to make changes specifically for you and your household to enjoy?
While you can answer “yes” to both questions, it’s a good idea to think about your neighborhood before you get started. This can help you figure out which renovations will provide the most benefit.
Create a list of the tasks you can accomplish on your own, and another list with the tasks you need help with. For the tasks requiring outside help, research professionals in your area to find the best person to assist you.
Investigate multiple contractors to compare rates and services offered. Ask them specific questions about the project timeline, how to handle unexpected costs and their liability insurance. The ideal contractor should be able to help you accomplish your home remodel goals while providing excellent customer service and quality work.
You’ll need a permit for most home renovations, and leaving them until the last minute can have expensive and inconvenient consequences. Many contractors provide a service of obtaining permits on your behalf, but in some cases you’ll need to fill out and submit applications yourself.
All permit applications require an inspection to make sure your home remodel meets structural and safety standards. If your project requires a permit, add this to your project schedule as soon as possible. This is another aspect of a house remodel which can cause delays, so the sooner you work out the paperwork, the better.
The planning process for a home renovation can be exciting, but it can also be confusing. Luckily, there are professionals available to help. As long as you keep these basics in mind, you’ll be on your way to enjoying your newly remodeled home.
Bob Hummer brings a wealth of experience with him; a practitioner in real estate in Northern Virginia since 1978, a Life Member of both the Million Dollar Sales Club and the Top Producers Club with over 2,500 Satisfied Families and President, Prince William Association of REALTORS in 1991. His experiences range from helping buyers and sellers attain their goals; to renovating historic homes on Capitol Hill; to counseling and assisting homeowners facing the loss of their home due to foreclosure. Since 1996, he has presented his free monthly Home Buyer and Home Seller seminars at the Woodbridge campus of Strayer University. In June 2023 he completed the Certified Probate Real Estate Specialist course and was awarded the designation CPRES. His goal is to assist individuals who inherited real estate and wish to sell. A former "Military Brat" and a retired Air Force Hospital Administrator, Bob has made more than 26 moves during his life and is extremely familiar with all aspects of a family relocating - whether it is across the street or across the nation.