When you invest a lot in something – time, money, hopes and dreams – it can turn into a high-stress situation. And renovating a home, from a fully remodeled kitchen to an updated bath and everything in between, is definitely at the top of the stress-causing list. But it doesn’t have to be.
The end result is definitely worth the hand-wringing and here are a few tips and tricks to help manage the inevitable stress that a remodel project brings.
▸ 1. Set the plan and the budget
Have a definitive plan going into the project so that when you call upon the experts, you’re clear in the direction, project scope and budget. I have found that sometimes, one will affect the other; things may be more expensive in reality than you’ve anticipated and the scope or budget may need to change.
▸ 2. Be flexible
Now that I’ve told you to set the plan and budget, it’s just as important to be flexible. Inevitably, something you’ve planned for may need to evolve in order to meet code, function properly or flow with the rest of the design. Don’t fret. Many times, plan “B” can be even better than the original plan “A.” I hate to use the phrase “it is what it is” but sometimes when it comes to remodeling, that phrase says it all.
▸ 3. Roll with the punches
Inevitably, things come up. Murphy’s law has a permanent seat at the remodeling table. It’s just a matter of how you deal with these surprises that makes all the difference. Again, be flexible. And, trust in your team to come up with brilliant solutions to design challenges.
▸ 4. Vacate
Living in a construction zone magnifies issues and stress. Sometimes vacating your home for a few days, weeks or months (depending on the extent of your remodel) can make all the difference. And, in some cases may be necessary for a portion of the remodel if the home will be without electricity, water, plumbing or other necessities. If possible, I suggest my clients find a hotel, bunk in with family or friends or rent an apartment/house. A physical separation from the daily pounding, hammering and sawing can be worth the expense, especially if the alternative is setting up a temporary kitchen or making other huge sacrifices.
▸ 5. Be available
Questions will come up from your contractor and designer. No matter how well things are thought-out and planned for, there will always be something else to consider. Make yourself available so decisions can be made and the project can continue without interruption. Time is money after all. On the flip side, it’s best not to interfere or micromanage on site. This just prolongs the project and can create confusion amongst subcontractors who have been given their assignments. If you see something being done that doesn’t seem to be in line with the plans, contact your contractor or designer directly and immediately.
▸ 6. Hire the right people
Most important to the project is involving the right people. This includes architects, engineers, contractors and designers, right from the start. Depending on the project, not all of these professionals may be needed but the idea is the same. Feel confident in your team and have faith that they will create the space you’ve been envisioning. Your relationship and communication with them is of utmost importance as these are the people who will ensure that your vision is carried out in the best, most time and cost effective way possible.
My goal is to make renovations as fun and positive as possible for my clients, but the reality is, there are challenges along the way. At Talie Jane Interiors, we pride ourselves on our ability to manage projects down to the last detail and collaborate with our clients, contractors, subcontractors and vendors to lessen the burden of remodels for our clients, making the end result well worth the effort.
Thinking of remodeling your home? Contact Talie Jane Interiors at 855-TALIE JANE (855-825-4352) or via email at [email protected]. Check out our website for remodeling ideas: TalieJaneInteriors.com. We look forward to collaborating with you.
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