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A Formula for Successful Remodeling

As you read this blog, you’ll quickly discover that much of the work that goes into a successful remodel happens well before anyone so much as swings a hammer.

If you’re undergoing your first remodel, prepare to be surprised by how much blood, sweat, and tears go into a remodel before the actual remodeling parts start. That’s because pulling off a successful remodel takes a lot of careful pre-construction planning. It’s easy to get buried in paperwork and meetings, so I developed a formula for remodeling that keeps you grounded in the process and gives you the little boost you need to stay motivated while keeping an eye on what’s to come. Here it is:

DREAM + DESIGN + BUILD + OVERSEE = REMODEL

It’s not rocket science! Remodeling isn’t, either.

DREAM

This is the first phase to any remodel is to have a dream of your vision. Although I’m here to keep you grounded in reality as you go through the remodel process, the result of your remodel should meet your expectations and make your dreams for your home come true! Anything less is settling. There may be times you need to make compromises on some aspects of your remodel, but these compromises shouldn’t fundamentally jeopardize the value of your new space. Once you’ve dreamed, make it come true by creating a written remodel plan and a realistic budget. These two things will help you stay focused throughout the process.

DESIGN

This is the second, and perhaps the most fun part, of your remodel. In the design phase, you’ll work to develop a clear, precise design that includes all the details that aren’t fully thought-through in the “dream” phase. The design phase is also where you’ll begin assembling your A-Team. I’ll talk more about the specific roles of members of your remodel team in a later blog post.

BUILD

This phase is where you start to solicit and evaluate bids of reputable contractors who have experience with your type of project. This is also the phase where you get approval from all relevant third parties to proceed with your remodel–your lender, as well as, neighborhood and local authorities. The planning you did in the dream and design phases serves as the guide for all work that takes place in the build phase.

OVERSEE

The last phase of your remodel is probably what you think of when you think of a remodel: the ongoing daily project management and budget oversight. Your proactive involvement in your remodel is the only thing that can ensure your project is completed on time and on budget. Even though your life isn’t an HGTV show, it is possible for your project to come in on time and on budget. With enough diligence and the strategies I’ll share with you on this blog and in my book, Remodel Success, you’ll be able to navigate the process confidently and get the results you want.