It looks so easy on TV. A homeowner offers a vague description of what they want, a designer whips out a plan and sledgehammers start flying before the first commercial break. Thirty minutes to an hour later it’s time for “the reveal” when the delighted homeowner gushes over their perfect new space. Reality is…not quite that easy. Here are a few suggestions to consider before diving into a remodel of your own. 

1.  KNOW WHAT YOU WANT

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The second of Franklin Covey’s 7 Habits of Highly Effective People^® is “begin with the end in mind.” That goes for interior design, too. Are you after a more efficient or appealing use of space? Do you want to make changes that will allow you to age in place? Is your goal to increase your home’s value? Are you sick of those 1990’s design choices and want to bring your home into this century? There are many valid reasons to remodel, and those reasons will help determine your choices.  

2.  SET YOUR BUDGET

Image: Mikhail Nilov

The Spruce calls this “one of the trickiest but most crucial steps” of a remodel and we agree. They recommend that you “Come up with your number, then tack 10 to 15% onto that, and that’s likely what you’ll spend.” You may need to board your pets or move the whole family to temporary quarters, spend more money on take-out (especially if your kitchen is part of the remodel), pay for storage, etc., so factor in as much of that as possible. Plus, there’s always the possibility of an unexpected hit to the budget once the project gets underway, so a contingency fund is vital.

3.  SAY IT WITH PICTURES

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Words mean different things to different people. If you’re working with a designer, show them photos of the look you’re after. Contractors work off plans, not airy conversations about what goes where. You’ll need words, too—especially in contracts—but sometimes pictures, whether a Pinterest board or an architectural drawing, are worth a thousand words and often more than that in dollars. Tip:  Keep all your contracts, drawings, pictures, checklists, etc. in one easy-to-access place so you can refer to them when you need to. At some point in the process, you will need to.

4.  DON’T COMMIT TOO EARLY

Image: Airam Dato-on

Specifically, don’t commit to a paint color that may look amazing on a chip or a computer mockup, but not so fabulous in the actual space. Adding or subtracting walls and/or windows can change the feel of a room more than expected. The lighting may not be what you expected. Try out your color with big swatches in your new space and pay attention to how it looks at different times of day and in both natural and artificial light. It’s better to find out if your chosen color works before you paint the whole space so you can avoid the expense and time to redo it.

5.  KNOW WHEN TO HIRE A PROFESSIONAL

Yes, doing it yourself might save money, but at what cost? Before you decide to strap on a tool belt and dive in, consider the potential time, aggravation, relationship stress, and safety issues that may result. Family Handyman warns that DIY renos “can turn disastrous if you don’t know what you’re doing.” Be realistic about which projects you can safely tackle and which are best left to a professional. Safety first!

6.  CHOOSE YOUR ATTITUDE

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Warning: Even in the smoothest renovation, something will not go as planned. Plan on it. Determine to stay as positive as possible. Yes, your project is important, but the fate of the world does not hinge on whether you can get a specific style of cabinet pull. Weather happens. Delays happen. Life happens. When it does, you can 1) work yourself into a tizzy and end up in the hospital due to stress or 2) breathe, keep calm and carry on. You, your family, your contractors and your home will all come out of the experience better if you choose option two.

For more renovation tips, check out The Ultimate Renovation List, 20 Tips for Planning a Successful House Remodel, 7 Must-Follow Tips for Starting a House Renovation, and 10+ Ways to Prep for a Major Home Renovation.