Renovation 101: Expert Tips to Plan, Budget, and Maximize Your Home Remodel

At The Denver Group, we love helping our clients make the most of their homes—whether that means buying, selling, or transforming their current space into a dream home. If you're considering a renovation, it’s essential to approach it with a solid plan. According to House Beautiful, these expert-approved action steps will help ensure your project is a success.

1. Identify Your Essentials vs. Wish List

The first step in any renovation is figuring out what’s absolutely necessary versus what’s nice to have. Prioritize structural and functional needs first—like updating an aging roof or fixing outdated plumbing—before moving on to cosmetic upgrades.

2. Renovate All at Once If Possible

While it may seem easier to tackle projects one by one, doing everything at once can actually be more efficient and cost-effective. A well-planned, full-scale renovation allows contractors to work more seamlessly, reducing labor costs and avoiding disruptions down the road.

3. Do Your Research on Pricing

Material and labor costs vary significantly depending on the market and the materials you choose. High-end finishes will drive up expenses, and different regions have different labor costs. Getting multiple quotes and researching material options can help you stay within budget.

4. Get Detailed With Your Budget

Don’t just estimate your costs—break them down line by line. Make a list of every single item that’s being changed, from major appliances to minor details like cabinet hinges and dimmer switches. Plug these into a spreadsheet and assign estimated costs. This gives you a realistic budget instead of just picking a number out of thin air.

5. Factor in Professional Fees

If you're hiring contractors, expect to pay 10-20% of the total project cost. Architects typically charge 8-20% on top of that. Will you need temporary housing during the renovation? That’s another cost to account for. Knowing these numbers upfront helps prevent unexpected budget overruns.

6. DIY—But Only Where It Makes Sense

Taking on parts of the project yourself can save money—but only if it won’t compromise the quality of the work. Painting, demo, and some basic landscaping might be manageable, but electrical, plumbing, and structural work should be left to the pros.

7. Hire the Right Team

Finding reputable contractors with solid references is crucial. The cheapest bid isn’t always the best—cutting corners can lead to costly mistakes down the road. Do your homework, read reviews, and check their previous work.

8. Compare the Cost of Renovating vs. Moving

Before diving into a major renovation, ask yourself: Is it worth it? Would it be more cost-effective to move or even rebuild from scratch? Sometimes, upgrading to a new home makes more financial sense than pouring money into an older one. If you're unsure, we’d love to help you crunch the numbers and explore your options.

Final Thoughts

A successful renovation requires careful planning, budgeting, and the right team of experts. If you're thinking about remodeling but aren't sure if it's the best move, reach out to The Denver Group. We can help you weigh your options, whether that means renovating, selling, or finding your next dream home.

Source: House Beautiful

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