Here are a few important steps that everyone should consider when preparing for a home renovation:
- Set a realistic budget. Determine what you would like to have done, and then decide how much you can afford to spend. Be sure to build in a buffer for ‘contingencies’.
- Expect some emotional, as well as physical upheaval, and then do what will work best for you. Some people may find it easier to go to temporary accommodations during the renovation. This is just one of the contingencies that you should keep in mind.
- Evaluate prospective contractors based on their technical skills, fees, references, and their relationship skills. Remember, if problems arise during the renovation, you need someone that you can trust, and with whom you can communicate well.
- Make sure that you and your partner are on the same page. There’s nothing tougher for a contractor than trying to please more than one person, when expectations differ.