If you’re contemplating a home renovation, you’re likely excited…and a little nervous. You may be concerned that the process will involve some stress. How stressful are home renovations? It depends on multiple factors. However, if you take the time to prepare properly, you can minimize the stress and maximize the enjoyment you’ll get from the results. Today, we’ll share some insight on how to prevent stress and anxiety during your next remodel.
Make a Plan
When’s the best time to plan? The best time to make a plan is before you start working on your remodeling project. Start with your vision for the project. What do you want to be completed? Many homeowners love to dream, brainstorm, and search for photos online, but they may resist the nitty-gritty process of drawing up a detailed plan. If you’re renovating your kitchen, break down the process into what will be changed. Will you be replacing all appliances? Swapping out cabinets? What will stay the same in the space? Write out the inventory of the work to be done, and make a list of professionals you’ll need to contact.
Once you know the goal, begin to think about your remodeling timeline, and make a plan for how you’ll adjust your lifestyle during that period. For example, if your kitchen is being renovated, how will you cook and clean when it’s under construction? Some people set up a cooking station with a microwave and hot plate in a separate room and stock up on paper goods to minimize mess. Creating a proactive response to remodeling disruptions can help you be prepared rather than reactive.
Set Realistic Expectations
No matter how much you prepare, there will be adjustments to the plan. It’s critical to begin with realistic expectations – no renovation goes perfectly. If you understand that delays and setbacks are typically part of the remodeling process, it’s easier to incorporate these into your expectations. For example, your tile may be on backorder, or a light you ordered may have arrived broken. In some cases, contractors may be delayed due to illness or complications on other projects. Focus on the end result, and do your best to stick to the plan, knowing that adjustments to the timeline will likely need to be made. Often, the stress of home renovations comes from the fact that the homeowners did not begin the process with a realistic picture of how it might progress.
Hire the Right Professionals
Do your research! This stage is especially important, since you’ll need to have a great deal of trust in the people who will be executing the renovation. Look for contractors who are licensed, insured, and have a good reputation in the industry. Don’t be afraid to ask for references, and make sure you feel comfortable communicating with them. Check reviews on Google, Yelp, local Facebook or Next Door groups. Ask your neighbors who they’ve worked with and trusted; many professionals like to establish a presence in a particular neighborhood.
Stay Organized
Staying organized is key to a successful home renovation project. Keep all your documents, contracts, and receipts in one place, and create a schedule that outlines the tasks you need to complete each day or week. This will help you stay on track and avoid any unnecessary stress. There are many tools to use to help facilitate this organization, so do some research and find what works for you. Make sure to include space in your organization tools for keeping track of your ongoing communication with your contractors. This could include a line for last contact or a space to make notes on the adjustments you decided on together. Don’t rely on your memory here; make sure to keep a written record to ensure that everyone is on the same page.
Budget Wisely
Take the time to research costs and get estimates from contractors as you develop your budget. Be sure to include all the costs associated with the project, including materials, labor, and any unexpected expenses that may arise. It’s also a good idea to set aside some extra money for contingencies. When renovating or remodeling, there are often unforeseen setbacks that will require extra funds. When you start working with a contractor, make sure to talk about your budget upfront. Be open and honest, and make sure you both agree that the budget is realistic.
Communicate Effectively
Be clear about how and when you’ll be communicating with your contractor. Inform them about any concerns you have as soon as possible. Establish regular times to check in on project progress. This can drastically reduce the amount of stress you feel during a home renovation. Trust goes a long way, and communication always improves trust.
Reach Out to the Experts
Modern Touch Contracting has over 25 years of combined experience, and we’re one of the most sought-after general contracting teams in the Broad Ripple, Carmel, Noblesville, Fishers, Westfield, Zionsville, Avon, Plainfield, Greenwood, and Indianapolis, Indiana areas. We’d love to talk with you about your goals and vision for your home remodel. Book a consultation today.
