Maybe you want a different layout or to rethink your home’s space, or maybe you just want to increase its value, renovating is always a great option. It makes your rooms more functional, improves the looks of your entire home, and makes it easier to find a future buyer. But a reason for renovating isn’t the only thing you need before taking on the project – you also need to know exactly what you want to change, and you have to do some preparation. That’s why NJW, your home remodeling professionals, Columbus, Ohio, have come up with a pre-home renovation checklist to help you out:

Decide which updates you desire

One of the most important things you should do before you begin your home renovation project is to define the scope of what exactly you want to do. Do you want to expand your bedroom and create a more usable space? Or add an entirely new room to your home? There are plenty of options and only by organizing your thoughts will you be able to think of the right project for your home. Remember, you know your home and its needs best, so your ideas are invaluable.

Obtain all the necessary permits and licenses prior to any projects

If you’re going to expand your home, chances are you’ll need a permit in order to be able to do so. It’s always a good idea to visit local authorities and make sure you have all the necessary permits and licenses to continue with your project We have found requirements for permitting varies greatly depending on the zoning department that covers your jurisdiction.  As a service to our clients, NJW will investigate and submit any required application to minimize this burden. A licensed professional is of  utmost importance in these instances. The last thing you want is to complete a project and not have proper permits for the project!

Set clear financial boundaries with a renovating budget

Before you start looking for contractors, you’ll need to work out the budget you’re working with and be assured there’s enough money to do all the work you had in mind. And no matter how much work you plan to do, there will always be some unexpected costs, so make sure you plan for those situations as well!

Find the right contractors for your projects

Obviously, we find this to be one of the most important check list items you will complete for your home renovation, and we know just the right contractors, US!  You’ll need to hire contractors who’ll help you get all the work done efficiently and effectively. We recommend that you look at some of our previous work and talk to our former clients. There is no better way to understand the success of a contractors’ work than seeing it for yourself and/or interviewing former homeowners!

Be prepared for delays and changes

When tackling any home remodeling project, you need to keep in mind that there might be some challenges that pop up. Of course, we all want the project to go smoothly so that everything is finished on time and within the given budget – it’s a reasonable expectation. However, there are factors no one can control, and that’s when the timeline and expenses of the project may fluctuate. Should any delays or hiccups occur be prepared to adjust.  Having a contractor on your team that has met many of these obstacles in the past is a welcome assurance.  Look for that contractor that has a solid track record of resolving delays and changes in a way that is most efficient and effective for everyone involved.

Conclusion

Start planning, do your homework and hire the right contractors (ahem, ahem), and your renovation project is going to be amazing. Let us help you with your next renovation, we can walk you through the entire process. We think we make great teammates, just ask any of our former clients!