Where to Start on a Home Renovation Project in Phoenix
Home renovation is a big undertaking, even the handiest of homeowners who’ve tried to do it themselves generally agree. In fact, failed DIY projects account for more than 30% of the projects home remodeling professionals end up taking on.
It’s common for homeowners in Phoenix to seek out new ways to spice up their homes – and increase property value.
Home renovations continue to generate a lot of interest from many homeowners, whether you’re in the city or out in the suburbs.
Now, the big question on everyone’s mind is: Where the heck do I even start with a home reno?
Well, we’re going to break it down for you.
It’s all about having a game plan – think budget, which areas in the home need the most love (or offer the most return on investment), and a vision of the look you’re going for.
Due to extensive experience working with clients on home remodeling projects, we have several helpful tips and insights to share to make sure your renovation journey is smooth and customized to your style!
Understanding Your Renovation Goals
Understanding your renovation goals is the crucial first step in any home improvement project.
Before diving into the design and planning phase, take the time to clarify what you want to achieve with your renovation.
Are you looking to increase your living space, enhance functionality, or improve energy efficiency?
Understanding your specific goals will help guide the entire renovation process and ensure that every decision aligns with your desired outcomes.
A Priority List Of Items Needed For Any Home Renovation Project
First – Always Begin With Setting A Budget
Whether you’re going to simply paint the house or take on a complete restoration project, the first and probably biggest step is to create a very clear budget.
It’s often said that money doesn’t grow on trees. This is a key driving force for anyone looking to invest in a home reno project. It can be helpful to have a little buffer with your budget meaning some reserves just in case you decide there is something that you can’t live without or in some cases, there can be unforeseen costs that can impact the overall budget.
This is why the best first step any homeowner can take is to create a solid budget of what they can afford to spend on any home renovation project.
Second – Create A Needs List And Wish List
It’s also important for homeowners to look at the big picture of their potential home renovation project. The best way to accomplish this step is to create two, independent lists.
- The first list will be items that you need to include in your renovation project. For example, if you’re planning on increasing the overall square footage of your home by adding a casita, another bedroom or finishing a basement, the actual project of adding those spaces is a needed feature in order to accomplish your goal.
- Once you have a good idea as to what you’re trying to accomplish with your renovation project, the next thing to consider is what material items you need to make the addition ‘livable’. Let’s look at the basement project for an example. If you’re going to finish a basement, you’ll most likely need a few critical items including air conditioning/heating duct work installed (if not already complete), electrical and plumbing installed (again, if it’s not already finished), drywall hung, walls built, filled with insulation and textured and several other common elements. If you’re going to have living spaces in the basement, you’ll most likely need at least one full bath finished as well.
After you’ve created the needed items, the next step is to think of wants and compare them to your budget. For example:
- Perhaps you’d want a bar installed in a loft, or outside on your backyard patio?
- Maybe you want to install decorative lighting, or surround sound speakers throughout the home or upgrade appliances?
- It might be a desire of yours to add custom molding, textured walls, or vaulted ceilings.
The point here is that you need to separate items you need to have completed, vs those that are more of a want – where if you have extra room in your budget, you can afford to install.
As you can see, there are several action steps that will get you started on the right foot when you’re asking where to start on a home renovation project in Phoenix.
The best advice we can give is to contact a professional general contractor for a free consultation so they can answer any questions and help you plan that perfect home renovation project.
Renovations, remodeling, and new construction; we have experienced professionals to answer your questions and provide a quote for your project. Call Peak One Builders & Restoration today at 480-481-5150!