Steps to Take Before Starting Your Renovation

Thinking of renovating? Before the first sledgehammer swings, there are a few crucial steps to take.

Too often, homeowners jump into demo too soon. The result? Construction sites that sit at a standstill, projects that spiral over budget, and rushed, expensive decisions that could have been avoided with proper planning.

Renovations are overwhelming, and the reality is, the overwhelm often does not hit until you are already halfway through. The good news? With the right preparation, you can minimize mid renovation stress and keep your project on track.

Most people only tackle a handful of renovations in their lifetime, if any. Expecting yourself to know every step is unrealistic. That is why I am sharing a roadmap for renovation prep, built on years of hands on renovation experience.

1. Decide if you are truly ready to renovate
You would be surprised how many people call in professionals only to realize their spouse or family is not on board. Before you start making appointments, make sure everyone in your household agrees that a renovation is wanted and that the timing is right. Having alignment from the start avoids wasted time, energy, and frustration later.

2. Establish your budget
This may mean reviewing your savings or visiting your bank to understand your lending power. A clear budget is absolutely necessary. Without it, professionals may quote you on materials or services that do not align with what you are willing or able to spend. And remember: it is almost impossible to stay “on budget” if you never defined the budget in the first place.

3. Gather inspiration
This is the fun part. Scroll through Pinterest, Instagram, or design magazines and save a handful of spaces that speak to you. You do not need to create an overwhelming mood board. Just a few images is often enough for a seasoned designer to recognize patterns and identify your style direction.

4. Reflect on your living situation
Depending on the scale of your project and your family’s needs, you may decide not to live in your home during the renovation. If that is the case, explore accommodation options early so you can factor them into your budget. If you intend to live in the home, let your designer and GC know so they can plan temporary solutions that minimize disruption.

5. Find your designer
It is tempting to reach out to a contractor first, but a thorough GC will always ask for plans in order to price the work correctly. If they do not, it is worth pausing. Your designer will create the drawings and details contractors need for accurate pricing, and they will likely recommend trusted GCs they have worked with before. Remember: your designer is your advocate throughout the process, and working with their network often leads to a smoother project.

6. Hire your GC
Once you have chosen the best contractor for your project, whether through your designer’s referral or your own search, it is time to commit. Your contractor will now collaborate with your designer to refine the budget and help you apply for permits if needed.

7. Gather the team on site
At this stage, your designer and GC should walk through the space with you to identify any site limitations. This step is key to reducing the risk of major design revisions later on. A good site meeting helps everyone move forward with clear expectations.

8. Finalize design details
This is when your vision becomes tangible. Materials are selected and ordered, and lead times are carefully reviewed to make sure they align with your project timeline. Cabinetry is a critical decision at this stage, especially in a kitchen renovation. Production times can range from 6 to 16 weeks, so choosing a cabinet maker and confirming those details early is essential to keeping your renovation timeline on track.

9. Demo time!
Only once the plans are finalized and the team is ready should demolition begin. It is finally time to pick up that sledgehammer, or better yet, let your GC handle it!

Final Thoughts

Renovations do not have to be chaotic. By slowing down at the start, building the right team, and finalizing your plans before demo, you set yourself up for a project that runs more smoothly, stays closer to budget, and actually feels exciting instead of stressful.

Of course, surprises do happen in renovations. It is part of the process. Seasoned professionals know how to roll with the punches and adapt when the unexpected comes up. But the good news is that a proper plan will always mitigate these surprises, turning what could have been a major setback into a manageable bump in the road.

If you are considering a renovation and want an experienced ally to guide you through the process, book a consultation with Sacha B Design. Together, we will turn overwhelm into clarity and your renovation dreams into a space you love.