Renovating a House Checklist: Step-by-Step Guide to Planning, Budgeting, and Building Your Dream Home

Home renovations provide homeowners with the opportunity to take their house and turn it into a home they’ve always dreamed of. The idea of renovating can be intimidating. Where do you start? Who do you call? But before you get overwhelmed, we’ve created a checklist to help answer all your questions and guide you through the home renovation process. Whether you recently purchased a fixer-upper home in Denver or have been living in the same house in New York for years, you can make your dream home a reality with the help of this renovation checklist.

1. Make a plan for your home renovation

Before you embark on your home renovation journey, make sure you outline your ideas and plans. Maybe you want to add a home office or redo the kitchen. The possibilities are endless. Make sure you know what you want the end result to look like and keep in mind that the project likely won’t be completed all at once.

Before you grab a hammer or start browsing paint colors, ask yourself:

• Why am I renovating? (To add value, fix issues, or improve comfort?)
• Which areas need the most attention?
• What’s my ideal timeline?

PRO TIP: “Dare to dream! Work with someone with the expertise, insight, and creativity to make those dreams a reality.” – Essential Habitat

2. Set your renovation budget

To determine your budget, decide which projects are the highest priority and what you can live without. Need help figuring out which renovations you want? Consider popular home trends in your area and projects that can add value to your home. Make sure to budget for any problems that could arise during the initial structure check or during demolition. Once you’ve established your budget, you can begin creating a reasonable time frame to help you stick to a schedule. 

3. Inspect your home’s structure and systems 

Before taking on a major renovation project, make sure the home’s structure is solid. This includes checking the foundation, electrical systems, plumbing, flooring, and roofing. Older houses are more likely to develop these problems, but it’s important to cover all your bases regardless of your house’s age. It’s essential to consult a structural engineer to help resolve any issues that may exist. 

4. Hire the right professionals for your renovation

Take this time to look over your plans and decide which professionals to hire when renovating your house. From structural engineers and plumbers to architects and contractors, there are countless professionals who can help you achieve your home renovation goals.

PRO TIP: “The key to the design is being faithful to your own inclinations because your taste will never go out of style.” – CCO Habitats

Foundation 

For signs of foundation issues, look for doors and windows that don’t close properly or cracks and gaps along the edges of the wall and floor. If you suspect any issues with the foundation, a structural engineer can help diagnose the problem and create a plan to address any repairs.

Plumbing and electrical 

You should also have your plumbing and electrical systems checked before beginning any renovations. Both plumbing and electrical systems should be up to date so they’re equipped to handle modern-day appliances and piping. If your house is several decades old, it’s a good idea to swap out your pipes and wires, making your home more reliable for years to come. 

Roofing

No matter where you live, a strong and protective roof is essential. Knowing whether you need it repaired or replaced is something you should pay attention to. If the roof is on the newer side, watch for loose shingles and repair as needed. Roof damage that may result in a complete replacement includes wall and ceiling stains from leaks and trapped moisture, attic leaks from damaged shingles, exterior paint peeling from trapped moisture, and cracked shingles. 

5. Obtain the proper permits

After planning your renovation, you’ll need to make sure you have the appropriate home improvement permits, depending on the type of projects you have in mind. You might need to get permits if your remodel involves:

• Major structural changes
• Electrical and plumbing
• Room additions or garage conversions

Failing to get the proper permits can be problematic if you try to sell your home in the future or apply for insurance.

6. Begin interior demolition and construction

Now, it’s time to start designing your interior. If you plan on demolition, you have two options: DIY or call the pros. Your budget will play a major role in choosing which option is best for you. 

Remodeling the inside of your home can mean totally reinventing your living space. Take down walls to open your space up or build new ones to transform your home’s floor plan. If you upgraded your electrical systems or plumbing, your walls will already be open, making it a good time to insulate and close them with drywall. Starting interior demolition room-by-room will help keep the renovation organized. 

During this stage, contractors can handle framing, wiring, plumbing, and HVAC installation. Each step may require inspections before moving to drywall and finishes.

If you’re living in the home during the remodel, be sure to create dust barriers and seal off construction zones to minimize disruption.

7. Add desired design elements to your home

Once all the prep work and demolition are complete, the remodel can truly begin. Here are four interior changes to consider adding to your home renovation checklist:

Built-ins 

Believe it or not, built-ins can provide value to a home. Built-ins are custom-made, permanent storage that adds character to your home. They come in many different forms, from shelving, dining nooks, closets, and much more. Not only are built-ins a great way to save space, but they can also help create a unique and long-lasting feature in your home.

Windows

Upgrading windows can not only enhance your curb appeal but can also increase your home’s efficiency. That way, you can enjoy the seasons through crystal-clear windows, while also investing in your home’s value. 

Cabinets

Although mostly a cosmetic touch, upgrading your cabinets can enhance the design of any space – kitchen, bathroom, or hallway. If new cabinets are not in your budget, a fresh coat of paint can go a long way toward bringing a fresh look to a newly remodeled home.

Flooring

Flooring plays a huge role in both the comfort and aesthetic of your home. The decision to opt for hardwood, carpet, or other options will depend on your lifestyle and preferences. If your home renovation checklist includes redoing the floors, carefully consider the pros and cons of each floor type and choose the one that’s best for you.

PRO TIP: For many of us, our houses don’t reflect the way we live. Formal living rooms? Who needs one when we’re working from home, the kids need homework areas, and mom has a side hustle making candles? Repurpose those rarely used spaces for rooms that you need. –Icon Building Group

8. Add the finishing touches and home furnishings

Home furnishings will tie in everything you’ve accomplished during this renovation process and bring your home to life. New wall paint, plant additions, pillows, and rugs can make all the difference. Once you incorporate these new pieces, implementing basic feng shui home design into your space helps ensure your home brings you positive energy.

PRO TIP: “Look for inspiration and ideas from examples that compel or inspire you, then consider what aspects speak to you. Is it the volume of the room, or the materials, or the lighting, or the views?  Do these aspects translate to your space?” – Campfire Collaborative Architecture & Design

Renovating a house FAQs

Does renovating a house add value?

It depends on the project. While some home renovations are purely superficial, certain home upgrades can add value to your home.

How much does renovating a house cost?

Renovation costs can vary widely based on scope and labor. A typical small renovation will probably cost less than $20,000, while more intensive projects can cost upwards of $100,000.

How long does it take to renovate a house?

How long a remodel takes depends on the scale of the project. If you’re only making minor or cosmetic changes, the whole project might take a few days or weeks. More significant remodels can take several months or even more than a year to complete.

Can I live in my home during a renovation?

It depends on the scope of work. Cosmetic upgrades are manageable, but full remodels might require you to find another place to stay, especially if plumbing or HVAC are involved.

The post Renovating a House Checklist: Step-by-Step Guide to Planning, Budgeting, and Building Your Dream Home appeared first on Redfin | Real Estate Tips for Home Buying, Selling & More.