If you’re planning a renovation project, even a small one, it pays to be prepared. Without sufficient planning and insight, projects can easily go over budget and take longer than anticipated. Anyone who has watched Grand Designs or a similar programme knows how badly things can go wrong when projects are not planned with an appropriate level of detail. Follow these six tips when embarking on any renovation journey to help set your project up for success.
1. Clearly Define Your Goals
Before calling in the contractors, detail exactly what you want to accomplish. Determine key elements like your budget, timeline, style and priorities. Know the rooms, features or functionality you want upgraded. Having a clear vision early allows you to share defined goals with your project team for streamlined planning.
2. Do Your Research
Spend time researching ideas online, in magazines, or by visiting show homes or model renovation projects. Note elements you like and don’t like to hone in on your preferred materials, colours, layouts and styles. Research professionals too and ask people in your networks for referrals. Gathering insight prepares you to make informed decisions.
3. Work With Professionals
While DIY is tempting for cost savings, most renovations call for experienced specialist help. Architects can ensure structural soundness and compliance while designing optimal layouts suited to your space and needs. Designers have aesthetic expertise for selecting materials and furnishings. And builders or contractors handle sourcing, coordination and construction.
Before design and build work begins, invest in a comprehensive measured building survey. This provides detailed and highly precise dimensions and positional information on all walls, doors, windows, heights and more – including electrical points, switches, fittings and fixed furniture. With this level of accuracy, your architect can confidently design and execute plans. Measured building surveys from a professional surveying firm like csw-surveys.co.uk are an investment worth making, particularly if your renovation project is complex or the building is very large. They are suitable for both domestic and commercial properties.
4. Plan With Long-Term Resale In Mind
Even if you don’t have plans to immediately sell the property once the project is complete, consider the potential resale value during the planning stages. Choose popular neutral styles and high-quality materials that appeal to a wide audience for protection of your investment. Also, factor in what future owners may need by ensuring plenty of storage, flexible room usage, and family-friendly attributes.
5. Prepare Financially
A financial buffer protects against budget-busting surprises hidden behind walls like wiring issues, asbestos or statement oversights. Secure contingency funds to absorb extra materials or labour without derailing timelines or quality due to financial limits. Also, investigate financing options that allow you to proceed confidently.
With adequate preparation and the right team in place, your next renovation can upgrade your home seamlessly and cost-effectively. Paying attention to these planning essentials at the start helps set your upcoming project up for success from beginning to end, ensuring you ultimately achieve your home goals.
