Once you make the decision to undergo a major home renovation, arranging financing and hiring a reputable contractor is high on your must-do list.
There are, however, some other first steps to consider.
Before any contractors cross your threshold, draw your dream home layout out on paper or in a software program, plan for problems, protect your valuables, and rid yourself of clutter.
Plan your Space
Before hiring a home remodeling company, do some research as to how you want your renovated home to look and function. Sketch out your ideas and imagine the new traffic flow of the home to make sure it’s inviting and easy to move from one room to the next. Consider how new construction will affect the overall context of your home; contemplate if an addition will crowd your lot or if taking down or adding walls will constrict the flow of traffic in the living areas.
Count on Problems
Problems and set backs are inevitable. Once you face reality and accept this fact, it’s easy to face them head on when they happen. Remember, the larger the remodel, the greater the chances for frustrations, so getting into a mental mindset of accepting some delays and stress, can help you when they happen.
Protect your Assets
With any major home renovation; there will be a lot of different people coming and going from your house; contractors, laborers, designers, and inspectors to name just a few. Make sure that important files, paperwork or family heirlooms, and valuable jewelry are kept off site or in a safe. Identity theft or theft of personal belongings can devastate your life so leaving these things out of sight can help to ensure you do not fall victim. Of course worries are minimalized when you choose a reputable company to perform work in your home, but for peace of mind, store those valuables!
Take Inventory, De-Clutter and Store
This is a great opportunity to get rid of items you do not need anymore. If you have clutter, why do a major home remodel just to clutter it back up again? Take inventory of furniture, lighting, and other accessories that will no longer fit or belong with the new and improved house. By donating or selling these items before you begin the remodel, you will not be tempted to use them if they are now not in proportion with the new rooms. Once you have gotten rid of the clutter and unneeded furniture, the things you are keeping need to be stored in either another part of the house or in an off-site storage unit.
