Thinking about upgrading your kitchen, developing your basement, or finally building that dream deck? Whether it’s a small refresh or a full-scale renovation, proper planning is key to staying on budget, avoiding delays, and getting the results you want.
To help you get started, here’s a simple 10-step checklist that will guide you through the planning phase of your home renovation.
✅ 1. Define Your Project Scope
Start by getting clear on what you want to accomplish. Are you doing a cosmetic update, a full remodel, or structural work? The clearer your vision, the easier it will be to communicate it with contractors and get accurate quotes.
Tip: Create a “must-have” vs. “nice-to-have” list to stay focused when making decisions.
💸 2. Set a Realistic Budget
Establish your budget early—including a contingency buffer of 10–20% for unexpected costs. Renovation prices can vary depending on materials, labour, and project complexity.
Need help budgeting? Post your project on RenovationFind and get quotes from pre-screened pros in your area.
📐 3. Research Ideas & Inspiration
Browse online galleries, home improvement blogs, Pinterest, or Houzz to gather inspiration. Visuals will help you and your contractor align on design and materials.
Bonus: Save your top 3 inspiration images to show during your quote meetings.
🧰 4. Choose Trusted Contractors
Working with the right contractor makes all the difference. Look for companies that are licensed, insured, and have solid reviews. RenovationFind Certified contractors are vetted for you—saving you time and stress. Learn how you can find the right contractor for you!
Let us match you with a trusted contractor →
📝 5. Get Multiple Quotes
Don’t settle on the first contractor you meet. Collect at least 2–3 quotes to compare pricing, timelines, and communication style. Be wary of quotes that seem “too good to be true.”
🧾 6. Ask the Right Questions
Interview your contractors. Ask about insurance, payment terms, previous projects, how they handle delays, and who will be on-site during the job.
📆 7. Understand Your Timeline
How long will the project take? Will you need permits? Will you need to vacate your home? A clear timeline will help manage your expectations and avoid disruptions.
🏡 8. Prepare Your Home
Clear out the work area, protect valuables, and talk to your family about what to expect. Consider where pets and children will stay during noisy or dusty work periods.
🛠️ 9. Get a Written Contract
Your contractor should provide a written agreement that includes but not limited to:
✔️ Scope of work
✔️ Materials
✔️ Payment terms
✔️ Timeline
✔️ Warranty/guarantee info
Never start a renovation without one!
🎉 10. Monitor Progress & Celebrate
Check in regularly with your contractor, ask for updates, and don’t be afraid to raise concerns early. Once the project is done—celebrate! Then leave your contractor a review to help future homeowners.
Final Thought:
Renovations don’t have to be stressful. With this checklist—and the right team—you’ll be well on your way to a smooth, successful home improvement.
👉 Ready to start? Post your project today and a member of our team will reach out to learn more about your project, needs and help guide you through this proces. Then, we will take your inforation and match you with RenovationFind Certified contractors who best meets your critieria.
This post first appeared on https://blog.renovationfind.com