Before all the aesthetics, a significant amount of prep work should be done to ensure a great outcome.
Planning a home renovation can be an exciting journey, transforming your living space into the dream home you’ve always envisioned. Whether you’re looking to undertake a full home renovation or an addition, careful planning is crucial to ensure a successful project.
Renovating your home involves numerous considerations, from choosing the right construction materials to selecting the perfect interior designs. A well-planned home renovation helps you avoid common pitfalls such as design mismatches, substandard construction, and unforeseen expenses.
Thorough research and careful planning are crucial to ensure that every aspect of your renovation, from the initial concept to the final touches, is executed with precision and care. To help you navigate this complex process, consider these six key steps when planning your home renovation.
Step 1: Determine the purpose of the renovation
What is your primary goal for the renovation? Do you want to increase space and functionality in your home?
Homeowners often fail to set a clear objective before renovating. They start shopping without clearly defining their needs, leading to unsatisfactory results.
Before beginning any work, take a moment to list the specific changes you want. For instance, consider a six-door wooden cabinet with a designated space for the microwave.
Consider the furniture and appliances you plan to purchase in the future. If possible, detail everything you want, including specific sizes, colours, and materials.
These details will be invaluable during the construction process, preventing issues like misplaced or awkwardly protruding items. Additionally, creating a mood board can serve as both inspiration and a practical guide during this stage.
Related: INTERIOR DESIGN How To Create a Mood Board Step by Step Easy Tutorial Using Canva – YouTube
Step 2: Plan the Process
After creating a checklist of what you want for the renovation, it’s time to develop a detailed plan.
Review your list and research each item online. There are numerous online communities where you can gather first-hand information on the best materials, such as the sturdiest wood, the most suitable tiles, and the top brands. Be cautious during this process, as user experiences can vary widely based on different factors.
Following thorough research, you should have a good understanding of the renovation timeline and what to expect during the process. Plan your next steps based on this information. Determine if you are fully prepared to begin the renovation and where you intend to stay during the six-month to one-year renovation period.
This stage can be quite stressful, so consulting with experts can provide a more accurate and reliable reference. Fyffe Design can help with the fine details of this process, offering valuable insights and guidance.
For added support, Fyffe Design provides free consultations to assist you in navigating the complexities of your renovation project.
Renovations and Extensions Project: Ariano
Step 3: Check your Finances
You now have a solid home renovation plan. What’s next? It’s time to focus on your budget.
When we talk about budgeting, it doesn’t just mean totalling the cost of everything on your list. It’s essential to include an estimated cost plus a 15 to 30 per cent buffer.
Unexpected costs are common during the renovation process. The actual financial requirements will often exceed your initial estimates. This can happen due to necessary but unforeseen expenses such as rewiring electrical circuits to fit your new design or repairing plumbing issues.
Before giving the green light to start work, ensure you are financially prepared. Remember the formula: ESTIMATED COST + 15-30% BUFFER.
No buffer, no cushion!
STEP 4: Get the BEST Contractor
This step can make or break your renovation plan. Finding a contractor, builder, or construction team that provides quality work is crucial.
When choosing a contractor or builder, consider three key factors: their reputation, their pricing, and their values.
- Reputation:
A contractor’s reputation is built on trustworthiness and their ability to deliver quality work. What do their previous clients say about them? Do they have a track record of completing jobs on time without issues? You can find this information by reading reviews or checking social media communities. Some homeowners go the extra mile and contact past clients for more detailed feedback. - Pricing:
It’s important to look beyond the initial quotes. While it might be tempting to choose the cheapest option, low quotes can often mean low-quality materials or hidden costs. Instead, look for contractors whose pricing reflects the quality of their work. With your research from Step 2, you should be able to determine if a contractor’s quote is reasonable for the scope of work. - Values:
The values of your contractor or builder are equally important. Do they communicate professionally? Are they punctual and respectful? These attributes may not directly affect the construction process, but effective communication and mutual respect are vital for a successful project. Contractors who build good relationships with clients are more likely to build good homes.
Here are some specific questions to ask your contractors to learn more about them:
- What licences do you have?
- Do you utilise project managers?
- What’s your policy on client updates and communications?
- How are your billing and payment processes structured?
- How long will it take you to finish this particular project?
- What are your turnover and post-turnover operations?
- Are you okay with utilising subcontractors?
Choosing the right contractor, builder, or construction team involves careful consideration of these factors. A well-vetted professional can make your renovation process smoother and ensure that your project is completed to the highest standards. Taking the time to find the best fit will save you time, money, and stress in the long run.
Renovations and Extensions Project: High View
Step 5: Contract Signing
To formalise your agreement with the contractor, it is essential to have a written contract.
Ensure that all terms you and the contractor have agreed upon are clearly outlined in the document. This step is crucial in protecting you from future disputes.
Engage a lawyer experienced in construction contracts to assist in drafting your agreement. Ensure that the scope of work, payment terms, timeline, and warranty details are clearly and specifically written to avoid any ambiguity. Vague contract terms have caused issues for many homeowners in the past.
Don’t hesitate to request amendments to the draft contract if you notice any discrepancies or have concerns. Remember, the contract is your safeguard.
Once the contract is signed, provide a copy to both parties and keep your copy in a secure place.
Your Next Steps
A home renovation is an exciting yet challenging endeavour. By clearly defining your renovation goals, planning meticulously, managing your finances, selecting the right contractor, and securing a detailed contract, you can set the stage for a smooth and successful project.
Thorough research and expert advice are key to avoiding pitfalls and managing costs effectively. If you need professional guidance, Fyffe Design is here to assist. Our team will help you make informed decisions to turn your dream home into a reality.
Contact Fyffe Design today to begin your renovation journey with confidence. Let’s bring your vision to life!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How long does a home renovation usually take?
The length of the renovation process depends on various factors, such as the size of the home and the complexity of the design. On average, home renovations or extensions can take several months, with more extensive projects potentially taking up to a year.
Feel free to contact us for a more personalised estimate.
Are there any permits required for the renovation?
Permit requirements depend on your location. Some locations would require permits for the following:
- Changes to the structural support (removal of walls or addition of rooms)
- Changes to or additional electrical circuits and fixtures
- Changes to plumbing systems
- HVAC works
It is important to visit your local building department or permitting office to know the required documents prior to making plans.
Fyffe Design experts can also guide you through the permitting process.
How much does home renovation cost?
Frankly speaking, home renovations are costly. The cost usually depends on the current prices of the materials, so there is no definite answer. It is best to consult a contractor for a quotation.
What is a fixed-price quotation?
A fixed price quotation is a fixed amount a contractor asks the client to pay for the whole project. Unless the client requests changes in the project, the amount to be paid does not change whether the cost of the materials in the market rises or goes down. is the sum of what a client pays for their project.
Do I need to move out during renovation?
It depends on your level of comfort. If the noise from all the drilling and machinery works would destroy your peace, it is advisable to look for a temporary abode during the home renovation.
