1. Build a Detailed Home Improvement Project Plan
The first step in a remodeling project is to develop a plan that clearly states the goal for your renovation and includes designing inspiration and an outline of the work that needs to be completed.
Your project plan should also include:
- Blueprints or sketches of your finished project.
- A list of needs and wants for your project.
At this point in planning a home renovation, investigate local zoning regulations and permits. Make sure your neighborhood is zoned for your remodel (some renovations like garage conversions are not allowed everywhere) and find out if you’ll need a permit. If you are completing a project that will change the structure of your home or the use of a room, you will most likely need a permit. Wait to apply for permits until you’ve hired a team and built a project timeline.
When to Start: 2 months before you’d like to start your project
2. Set a Project Budget
The next step when planning a home renovation is to determine your budget and financing. Your budget should include the costs for permits and building materials, labor costs and the cost of decorations or cosmetic touches.
To build your budget:
- Decide how much you want to spend and finalize financing. Set aside at least 10% of your budget for unexpected costs.
- Request cost estimates from professionals.
- Price out all required materials.
If your cost estimates do not fit in your budget, use your home improvement project plan from step one to eliminate project elements that are a lower priority. Request cost estimates from multiple contractors to find the best option for your budget.
When to Start: 1 month before starting your project
3. Hire Contractors
Next in your home project planning, you’ll need to hire your team. Don’t choose your contractors on cost estimates alone. When interviewing and selecting your contractors, also consider:
- Years of experience: A contractor who’s been doing business for a long time makes them a safer bet than one who is new to the business.
- Contracting license: Make sure your contractor has gone through all the steps needed to obtain any required certifications specific to their line of work.
- Certificate of insurance: Contractors should have workers’ compensation and liability insurance for the type of work they perform.
- References: Request and call references. This is a great way to make sure your contractor isn’t just good on paper.
- Payment schedule: A reputable contractor won’t ask you to pay the full price upfront, and the Better Business Bureau advises not to. However, it’s important to discuss payment terms before construction begins. In some cases, it’s better to spend a little extra to get someone you’re comfortable working with.
If you are hiring multiple contractors for a job, determine who is in charge before the project begins to avoid confusion or slowdown later.
When to start: 2 to 3 weeks before your start date
4. Build a Timeline
Once you have your budget and team in place for your remodeling plan, it’s time to put together your timeline. First, choose a desired start date, or if you’re hoping to have it completed by a specific date, work backward from that date instead. Sit down with your contractors to determine the length of time each portion of the project will take. Discuss which steps of the remodel need to be completed first, how long they will take and which project portions can be completed concurrently.
Additionally, be sure your timeline:
- Includes time to clean out the project area.
- Allows for the shipping and delivery of materials.
- Accounts for any holidays your contractors may take off.
Use a calendar to mark out each step of the project. Set a completion date that includes a few days’ worth of wiggle room for unexpected issues. Confirm with your contractors or team members that the timeline is realistic and keeps you within budget.
5. Start the Work
Once you have your plan in place and you’ve chosen your contractor, it’s time for demolition to start. Demolition can be very dangerous, especially when performed haphazardly.
Once your demolition work is completed, the “rough-in” process can start. This involves any work done beneath floors or behind walls, like installing ductwork for central heating and air conditioning, installing new electrical and plumbing systems, etc.
This is when plumbing and electrical inspectors will need to come inspect your home and ensure you have up-to-date systems. Because re-wiring and plumbing will likely need to be done, handle all rough-in work before flooring, drywall, and painting work, as it could be damaged in the process.
Have a diagram of your remodel plans on hand, particularly for rooms in need of electrical and plumbing work, so plumbers and electricians will be able to properly address your needs.
Where do you want your refrigerator to go?
What about your lighting?
Where should outlets be—and how many?
These are all things to consider and should be discussed with your contractor.
When to start: 2 to 4 months from your start date
*Plan Ahead for Waste Removal*
Don’t wait until your contractor is piling concrete in your driveway to think about waste removal. Include the cost of getting rid of debris in your budget and make sure you discuss plans with your contractor before the project begins. Decide who is responsible for finding a waste removal solution for construction debris, what it will be and where it will be located during the planning process.
Airbnb Project By: Cherry-Host
We had such an amazing time working on this project, overall home really came to life in a beautiful way. This space was transformed into a calming environment for vacationers to a small beach town. It is all about making the guest feel comfortable, welcomed, and at home.
We hope you picked up a few tips on how to design an Airbnb Plus property! Remember to have fun with the design as it’s the perfect opportunity to be bold and make a statement. The more your Airbnb pops, the higher your visibility will be! If you need some help getting started on your design, feel free to visit our website and explore the packages we offer. We’d be pleased to help you realize your Airbnb dream!
