Starting your first home remodel can feel overwhelming. It seems like a huge endeavor with endless pitfalls. There are many questions beginning to surface that you don’t know how to answer. This article will help with some of these questions, giving you confidence to move forward with the process. I’ll walk you through the main stages of the remodel, so you can take the reins.
Before we get started, I would like to say each home remodel project is different in its own unique way. The steps listed below are a generalization that is meant to be used as a guideline. Planning for your project will include specifics that are unique to your situation. Use the information in this article as a jumping off point. To find the answer to specific questions, search advice from others that have experience with this type of work.
Common Beginner Mistakes to Avoid
Before we talk about the key stages of a home remodel, I would like to point out the main mistakes a beginner can make. These are easier to avoid if you know what to be aware of.
There’s an old saying that goes “Do as I say, not as I do.” In other words, learn from the mistakes others have made before you. Here is a list of some of the most common mistakes a beginner may make during a home remodel:
Skipping the planning phase
Plan for your home remodel the right way. Do this first to get everything ready before getting started. This will help create a smooth transition between phases in the job, making it a much more desirable process for you and your family.
Since your remodel is unique, that means you will have a slightly different planning phase than mine below. Use this as a starting point. Take a look at what is written below, but also go deeper on what you think is important to consider.
Define Your Goals
- Identify your main reasons for the remodel (comfort, resale, repairs, layout issues)
List must-have features
List nice-to-have features
Define long-term vs short-term needs
Decide if the remodel will be done all at once or in phase
Set Your Budget
Determine your maximum spend
Identify areas where you can compromise
Estimate material costs
Estimate labor costs
Factor in permit fees
Plan for appliance/fixture upgrade costs
Set aside a contingency fund (10–20%)
Decide how the project will be financed (cash, loan, HELOC)
Research and Inspiration
Collect photos and ideas (Pinterest, Houzz, YouTube, showroom visits)
Determine your style/theme (modern, traditional, etc.)
Make a color palette
Compare materials (durability, cost, maintenance)
Save product links for future reference
Create a Timeline
Map out pre-construction preparation
Plan demo duration
Schedule rough-in work (plumbing, electrical, framing)
Plan inspections
Plan drywall and finish stages
Schedule painting
Plan flooring installation
Schedule fixture/appliance installation
Add buffer time for delays
Determine ideal start and completion dates
Underestimating costs
There are a lot of costs that can surface during a home remodel. It’s important to have an understanding of what to expect. There are some items that will be a bit different than what you planned, but you won’t be that surprised.
Hiring the cheapest contractor
The process of finding the right contractor is an important one. The cheapest option is easy to consider at first, but you get what you pay for. You want someone who will give you the ideal remodel that you can love for years.
Not checking permits or codes
There are problems like fines and delays that can come up if you do not check permits. Keep on track by staying up to date with the codes.
Changing plans mid-project
It’s easy to want to pivot when you start seeing progress in the project. It’s okay to make some changes as the remodel goes forward, but keep in mind that this can create more problems like delays, and added expense.
Ignoring the contingency fund
A contingency fund is important to not overlook. This is the pool of money that is ONLY used in the case of an unforeseen issue. This money must be set aside, and only dipped into in the case of an emergency.
Choosing trendy over timeless
Trends of the day may seem nice at first, but can quickly become outdated. The 1990s is a great example of this. There were trends like wallpaper borders in the kitchen that some people may still like today, but are not as timeless as other styles.
The list above includes some of the most common mistakes a beginner can make when going through a home remodel. This is not a complete list, but is intended to get you thinking about this before getting started. Look further into any parts of the remodel you believe can cause problems. Talk to someone with more experience if you have any questions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the 30% rule in remodeling?
This is a rule that says 30% of your home remodel budget should go towards hidden costs, upgrades, and other unseen items you will run into. This money should be set aside and only used when needed by these types of issues.
Can a novice perform a remodel?
A person who is new to home remodeling is absolutely capable of doing a cosmetic, or “low-risk” remodel. If you don’t have skills in areas like plumbing, electrical, or areas requiring permits, and your remodel involves one or more of these, seek professional assistance.
What is the biggest factor that determines cost?
The scope of work includes finishes, materials, labor, and changes to layout. These are the areas you will be spending the majority of your money. Things like permits are going to cost some money, but not as much.
Should I live in my home during the remodel?
It’s possible to live in a house while renovating. The main disturbances will be loud noise, dust and debris, and limited water and electrical. If it’s a kitchen remodel, a temporary “pop-up” kitchen will need to be utilized.
How long does a remodel usually take?
A typical project lasts:
Bathroom: 3–8 weeks
Kitchen: 6–16 weeks
Whole home: 3–12+ months
Planning often takes as long as construction.
Steps For A Home Remodel
Now that we know some of the most common mistakes to avoid, lets go through the main stages of a home remodel. Each of these stages will take longer for someone who has not been through this process before. Some of the work can include specialized tasks that takes a bit of expertise.
If a shorter timeline is important to you, or you don’t feel confident in going through this process alone, I recommend getting a contractor that will help you. That’s why I put together the FREE Hiring The Ideal Contractor Checklist. It walks you through the steps of finding, interviewing, and hiring the ideal contractor to help in your home remodel. Click the link below now to learn more.
- Find out what needs to be done before hiring
- Learn where to go to look for the right people
- Get to know what goes into the interviewing
- What takes place before signing the contract
- Keep up-to-date while the project is happening
Step 1: Define Your Remodeling Goals
Get a note pad and a pencil out before you begin. Use a notes folder on your phone if that’s easier. I like to use a spiral notebook like the ones from grade school. There’s something about going old school and writing it down physically that helps me focus.
The purpose is to consolidate all your notes into one place. It’s easier to access if you keep everything where you know it’s at. You are going to be writing down answers to questions, listing products you want, and much more.
List Your Reasons For The Remodel
There are several reasons to start a home remodel. Ask yourself what the most important goals are to accomplish. Do you have an outdated kitchen, bathroom, or bedroom that desperately needs improvement? Are you getting ready to sell the house and want top dollar? Or, is it something else that’s important to you and your family?
Make two lists with the headings “Must-haves” and Nice-to-haves”. Brainstorm with your family about everything that’s important to have as an outcome of this project. Is it a non-negotiable, or is there some wiggle room? Write down everything you can think of before moving on.
These lists were just the start. Take a look at the questions in the list below. Answer them as completely as possible.
Questions
What is your reason for starting this remodel (resale, comfort, etc.)?
The reason for starting a remodel often centers around improving your comfort and daily enjoyment of your home. Remodeling allows you to customize your space to better fit your lifestyle. Whether that means updating an outdated kitchen, creating more functional spaces, or simply making the home feel more like yours.
What are the most important features or improvements you want to have with this remodel?
Identifying the most important features or improvements for your remodel is crucial. It directs your budget, timeline, and overall design decisions. These priorities could range from enhancing functionality, such as adding more storage to aesthetic upgrades like new flooring or modern fixtures. Focusing on key improvements ensures that delivers maximum value and satisfaction.
What is a realistic budget you have to work with?
Setting a realistic budget is foundational for a successful remodel. It defines what can be achieved without too much financial strain. It requires careful consideration of costs, including materials, labor, permits, and a contingency fund. Being realistic means balancing your desired outcomes with practical financial limits. A well-planned budget also serves as a guide for making informed decisions and prioritizing features throughout the remodel process.
Are any of the “must-haves” less important than others?
Not all “must-have” items carry the same level of impact in the end. Some features are absolutely non-negotiable, while others might be essential but could be adjusted or delayed if budget or time constraints arise. Prioritizing these must-haves helps you make strategic decisions during the remodel, ensuring that critical elements are completed first and that less urgent ones can be reassessed or phased in later. This approach allows for flexibility without sacrificing the core goals of your project.
How much remodeling do you want to have done on your home in the end?
Determining how much remodeling you want to complete ultimately shapes the scale and complexity of your project. It involves deciding whether you aim for a full-scale renovation transforming multiple areas or a more focused remodel targeting specific rooms or features. This decision impacts your timeline, budget, and resource allocation, as larger remodels require more extensive planning and management. Clearly defining the desired extent of work upfront helps keep the project aligned with your goals and expectations, preventing unnecessary expansion or scope creep.
There may be more questions you and your family think of. It’s good to get as thorough as possible with this stage. The answers to these questions will give you a deeper understanding into why you are doing this project.
Write everything down, and read through it to see if there are any adjustments you want to make. There are areas that you may pivot on after deeper thought. Once this stage is at a place you are comfortable with, it’s time to move on to the next stage.
Step 2: Set A Realistic Remodeling Budget
When going into a home remodel, you must first know what budget you are working with. Finding your budget is crucial before beginning a home remodeling project. This will help you understand what can be included, and what can’t. A realistic budget will also tell you when an aspect of the project should be removed or revamped altogether.
There is a process that helps you make a realistic budget for any type of home remodel. Visit the article called Home Remodel Cost Estimator for a thorough understanding of this process. Here you will see how to calculate yours.
Each remodel has a different scope of work. This leads to having a different range of associated budget costs. There are several factors that make a home remodel budget more or less expensive.
Home Remodel Budget Factors
The list below are of factors that can affect your budget. Every home remodel goes through a different process that can be unique to your remodel. There may be aspects of your home remodel that are not included in the list below.
- Construction and labor
- Cabinetry and storage
- Appliances and fixtures
- Layout changes
- Materials and Finishes
- Permits
- Hidden costs
You can expect there to be hidden problems that you don’t know about until work begins. This can be easily dealt with if you have a strong contingency fund available to use for these situations.
Home Remodel Budget Rule of Thumb
Making a budget for a home remodel can be a confusing thing at first. The article highlighted below will walk you through the stages of setting up your budget and get started on the right foot. This will help protect you from spending money in areas that are not necessary, or excessive.
How To Plan a Remodel on a Budget
Read this article next to see what goes into setting up a budget for a home remodel.
Below is a list of home remodel categories with their percentage of the total budget. These are rough estimates intended in giving you an example of what to expect.
- Cabinets: 25–35% of budget
- Labor: 30–40% of budget
- Countertops & surfaces: 15%
- Appliances & fixtures: 15–20%
- Hidden costs (Contingency): 10%+
It’s important to have a contingency fund set aside for any type of remodel project. This is what you will use ONLY when something comes up unexpectedly. There will be problems that need to be solved before the project’s completion.
Step 3: Research and Get Inspiration
It’s important to know exactly what you want to accomplish with your remodel. This stage gives you all the motivation you need to keep the project going. You want to know what you like and don’t like with any portion of the project.
Be creative with where you are searching. There are plenty of online resources to use in this part of the process. Some are better suited for your likes than others.
Don’t stop at just using websites. Go to show rooms, and talk to the professionals that run them. If your city is having a home remodel expo, drop by and see what’s new on the market.
A Few Places to Find Inspiration:
- RemodelUpgrade.com
- Youtube
- Houzz.com
When you are beginning your search, take a moment to think about the right search terms to use. Think about the specifics of your remodel. What are the items on your must-have list? Type one of these into pinterest and see what happens.
Search Term Ideas:
- Small bathroom remodel ideas
- Open concept kitchen ideas
- (Your color pallet) living room ideas
When you see an idea you like, take a screen shot. Store them in a folder if you can so you have all them in one place to look over when necessary. Take notes in your notebook of the things you like the best from these concepts. If you find something you like more than what you previously wanted, feel free to pivot. Now is the time you can do this.
This step is not meant to overwhelm you. It is easy to get on any of these apps or websites and just keep scrolling. Don’t let paralysis by analysis creep in. You will need to get past this step in order to move to the next one.
Step 4: Decide DIY vs Hiring a Contractor
Knowing all the steps of the project is an important part of this process. Take a look at the timeline section below. Are you familiar with these processes enough to be able to complete all or some of them? It’s reasonable to believe that if you were to do the work yourself as a DIYer, these timelines would be extended by days or even weeks.
Can you see working these into your calendar as it stands today? Do you feel like you have enough free time in your week to get some of this done? If the answers to these questions are no, it’s time to start looking for a contractor.
Check out the free Hiring The Ideal Contractor Checklist to get a gameplan for finding the right person for your job. It gives an insight into all the steps for successfully hiring the ideal contractor.
There may be a chance you want to do some of the work to help save money. This is something to talk to the person you choose about. Keep in mind they have a strict timeline themselves. A good contractor will want to get the job done in order to move on to the next one.
Step 5: Check Permits and Building Codes Early
Building permits is an important topic that needs to be mentioned. These are legal aspects of the home remodel process that should not be overlooked. Let’s touch on some of the more important aspects of permits for you to pay attention to.
Why Permits Matter
Permits are part of the building process that ensures you are doing things the legal way. There are certain building methods that are the safest for yourself and others that enter the home.
Most Common Home Remodel Permits:
- Structural changes
- Plumbing
- Electrical
- HVAC
The best way to look at it is if it’s a part of the remodel that is not cosmetic, you want to check if it needs a permit. The things that can cause damage to the house if they break are the first to look at. These include but are not limited to items in the above list.
How To Check For Permit Requirements
To find out if your project requires a permit, you must contact the local building office. Do this by doing a quick web search for “building office in (My City)”. You may need to speak to an employee to get specifics about your remodel.
Step 6: Create a Remodeling Timeline
A timeline will show you exactly what needs to be done, and when. Below is an example timeline to help get you started. Add details to know what should be done on your project within a timeframe. You will have different milestones that the timeline will be altered to give you a more clear picture of your project. Be as specific as possible so you can fully understand what’s taking place.
Planning & Design (Weeks 1-2)
- Define project scope, budget, and timeline
- Finalize design plans and permits
Demolition (Weeks 3-4)
- Remove old materials, fixtures, and finishes
- Dispose of debris and prep the site
Structural & Rough Work (Weeks 5-8)
- Framing, plumbing, and electrical rough-ins
- HVAC updates and inspections
Drywall & Finishes (Weeks 9-11)
- Insulation, drywall, and paint
- Install flooring, cabinetry, and trim
Fixtures & Final Touches (Weeks 12-14)
- Install lighting, plumbing fixtures, and appliances
- Add hardware and final paint touch-ups
Final Inspection & Cleanup (Weeks 15-16)
- Walkthrough with contractor
- Fix punch list items and deep clean
The scope and technical level of your remodel will be different from others. Not all the stages in the list above will be included in your remodel either. There will also be a difference in the amount of time you need for some of these stages. Use this as an estimate to get your timeline started. If you are doing the work yourself you can expect to go longer on some because you also have a life.
Step 7: Gather Estimates and Choose a Contractor
Now you know how to start a home remodel as a beginner. You also know you don’t have the time or skill set to do the work. Getting a contractor to help is the next part of this process. They will help you move through the remodel and see it finished.
Download Hiring The Ideal Contractor Checklist to help with hiring a contractor.
There is a method to finding, interviewing, and hiring the ideal contractor for your home remodel. When done right, it will help you avoid finding someone who will scam you, and/or not complete the project. Let’s look at each of the stages, and learn what to do.
Finding the Ideal Contractor
Knowing where to look for your ideal contractor is an important step to this process. The list below will help you get started in finding a good contractor. You may need to expand your search to other options in your area.
- Ask friends and family who have gone through a remodel
- Better Business Bureau (BBB)
- Angie’s List
- Local building associations/groups on Facebook
- Yelp
The main thing you want to pay attention to is what others think of the contractor. Do they have more good reviews than bad ones? Are the bad ones specific situations that are one-offs, rather than something commonly done? Use your judgement when searching for someone you want to move to the next step with.
Interview Potential Candidates
Once you have 3-5 potential candidates you can begin the interview process. Give them a call and ask them the following questions. This will let you know more about the person who will help you in this project.
Interview Questions
Do you have any examples of remodeling projects like mine you’ve already done?
You would have already explained the project before asking this question. A person who is excited to share ideas with you about things they can do is someone you want to work with. If they avoid this question it could be a red flag.
Can you give me three references I can speak to?
You want them to be previous clients that know what working with the contractor is like. Someone who is proud of their work would be happy to send a few references your way. Not wanting to share references could be considered a red flag.
Are you licensed and insured?
Being licensed/insured will help protect you if things go wrong. You also want to ask if they will be using any subcontractors for any of the work. If so, verify that they will be insured as well.
Can you think of anything else you would like to ask? This is the moment to get to know your candidate. You will be inviting them into your home, so make sure it’s someone you can trust.
Hiring The Ideal Contractor
Once you have the person you like the most, you can move forward with hiring them for your remodel. This also has a specific process that should be followed to ensure a bit of safety for you and your home. I put together the free Hiring The Ideal Contractor Checklist to guide you through the entire process.
Step 8: Prepare Your Home for the Remodel
Take the steps needed to get your home ready for a remodel. This will make the process a lot more comfortable for you and your family. It will also help with the construction process by not having items that will get damaged in the way.
Remove Household Items From Work Zone
Clear all your household goods out of the areas that will be worked on. Take the small items and box them up so they can be stored safely. If they are items you use on a daily basis you can keep these in a designated area or specific box out of the work zone.
Create A Temporary Kitchen
If it’s a kitchen remodel you will need to set up a temporary kitchen to do your cooking in. If the remodel includes plumbing work you will want to store up water to use for cooking and drinking. This can be done by using five gallon buckets or jugs and a water dispenser.
Protect The Furniture
Use sheets and drop cloths to protect your furniture from dust and being damaged. Move them out of high traffic areas where people will be carrying tools and materials through on a regular basis.
Talk to your kids about safety in a work zone. They need to keep away from dangerous power tools and sharp edges in the environment. The pets will need to be kept in different locations of the home if they tend to wander into the work environment.
This is a temporary process, but will need to be understood by the entire family that it’s dangerous and should be avoided as much as possible. Safety should be the number one focus of everyone. Take whatever precautions necessary to ensure everyone is safe and happy.
Step 9: Start The Remodel, and Manage It Like a Pro
Now you have your timeline for the process. The contractor you chose is reliable and ready to work. Your family is up-to-date with what to expect with this endeavor. It’s time to start the work.
Proper management is required to get to the finish line. You will be keeping track of timelines and milestones. Staying on top of the budget is a must that can not be overlooked. All this includes constant communication with everyone involved.
Keep detailed notes to refer to when needed. Writing down the specifics of what has been completed in each phase will give you something to go off of when you are communicating with others. It would be smart to take photos as each milepoint is reached. These photos may be helpful at a later date for moments like when you sell the house
Step 10: Inspect and Wrap Up
The final walk through is an exciting time. This is when you want to look the work over with a critical eye. Once the job is finalized it will be difficult to get the contractor back on site to fix any issues.
Go through the remodel and meticulously look for flaws or discrepancies. Carry a roll of blue painters tape with you during this walk through. As you find a flaw, put a piece of tape next to it as a visual marker. This will help you and the workers find the flaws when ready to fix them.
Make a note of the flaw’s location as well as the date you noticed it. After you complete this list you can check them off.
All the paperwork from this remodel should be kept in a folder and stored away for future use. This is because if there are any issues that need to be handled in court, you will have the documents to support your case. This includes permits, warranties, receipts, etc. All of your notes from your notepad should be added to this folder as well.
Once all the items are completed it’s time for another final walk through. You and the contractor can go through and sign off on all the items that were discussed on the previous walk through. Once everything is completed it’s time to make your final payment and sign off on the project.
Congratulations, your home remodel is now complete.
Conclusion
Follow the process above to have a smooth home remodel. This all seems like a lot, but refer back to this article as you get going to stay on track.
Going through a home remodel is a fun endeavor that allows you to build a space in your home that you love. It can be stressful at times, but knowing how to navigate those situations will get you to the finish line. Learn from others who know what they are doing and you will enjoy the process.
Thanks for reading Remodel Upgrade. Take a look at the related posts to find answers to other topics.
Here at Remodel Upgrade I am dedicated to helping you turn your home into your sanctuary.
You Got This,
Kevin
Kevin
I grew up in a family where my dad and several uncles were general contractors. They took me to the jobsites, and also taught me so much about home maintenance. I remember spending several summers in high school helping my father build houses. It gave me so much knowledge that I am excited to share!
