Most renovations are usually due to the need to update outdated and ill functioning spaces, extending living spaces and improving the quality of lifestyle. Depending on the size of your renovation, it may also be the largest cost you undertake on your home and the biggest mental and emotional endeavour as well. Here are 4 simple steps to help be more prepared as you begin your renovation.

1. Plan – Plan – Plan

Make a list of the updates you want ranging from ‘priority’ to non-priority items including any possible future updates. Your list will quickly show where to focus first and what you need to discuss with trades. You can also begin researching these items and what is involved regarding time, costs and other details.

I suggest tackling the ‘must fix’ items first that may be considered hidden, costly or non-sexy but are usually essential repairs – items such as insulation, gutter repairs, drainage or electrical issues and items that can potentially cause  damage. If you have watched any home reno show you will have seen home owners spend money on these type of items that aren’t seen but have been more costly when left.

2. Budget and Contingency Budget

Budget – Speak to builders & trades people to understand what is possible and get quotes for the work you want. Discuss time frames, costs, quality of materials, finishes and possible hidden problems due to the age of your home, EG Asbestos, wood rot, etc. At this stage you can compare what you have saved for renovations and actual quotes to decide your next financial step.

You could also get a home inspection report, if it has been years since you had one, which will give you an up-to-date report of any visible problems with photos of hard to get to spots like the roof cavity, structural defects, termite and animal challenges etc together with a written document to work with – these reports aren’t only for selling your home.

Contingency Budget – When you receive quotes, add a contingency budget of between 10% to 20% of the entire cost of your reno or more depending on what your builder / trades person advises, discuss this at length.  We all know world events have had a huge impact on goods both local and internationally.

Also factor time contingency into your reno as delays may also effect deliveries, labour, hire for ongoing materials such as scaffolding etc; again discuss with your builder and trades people.

Additionally always ask for trades references, insurances and testimonials from past clients and more relevant these days is to ask if a builder has filed for bankruptcy, insolvency or liquidation etc, to cover your bases.

3. Define Your Design Style 

When creating a home that is cohesive to both you and your partner, it’s vital to discuss and understand each other’s style to then discover your combined style. Typically, one style is usually more prominent followed with other accent styles. Knowing your unique combined style makes design decisions easy as each style has a set of key elements you can talk through and of course insert a little bit of compromise where needed.

4. Create Your Home Vision Board

Gather home inspirations as you chat about your combined style, finishes and the things you both like to create your vision board. Your vision board becomes your template for agreed decisions on finishes, the look and feel you both want and is also a shopping list starting point. Everything becomes easier when can see your combined design style and vision of what you both want and love.

5. Prepare For Your Renovation

Any renovation can be an intrusive event not only for your home but also to your frame of mind. Routines can be disrupted, trades people enter your private space, deliveries are scheduled, there will be shopping expeditions, noise, dust, upheaval and don’t forget your pets who are also effected and more…  BUT, if you are as mentally prepared as you can be it can be easier.

Tips

• Keep your vision board in a prominent position throughout your reno to stay focused on your dream finish
• Be flexible as there will be unforeseen items you may need to adapt to
• Mentally and emotionally plan for the change and disruption and find ways in advance to cope such as regular walks and discussions
• For longer renos take mini breaks for a day or weekend
• Find a pet sitter
• Have a friend or family member as a go to spot

Remember your reno will finish and you will have your fabulous home at the end. Stay focused on your vision and find ways to inject fun in your project.

And at the end of the day you are in the position to be able to undertake the reno and make a positive upgrade for you and your family and that is worth celebrating.