No two home renovation projects are exactly alike. But whether you're planning a total gut renovation or a few cosmetic updates, there are some common things you should expect. Today, Denise Fernandez covers the different types of home renovations, budgeting and estimating costs, finding the right contractor, and more.

Examples of Home Renovations

There are many different types of home renovations. Some renovators choose to do a complete gut renovation, which involves tearing down all the existing walls and starting from scratch. Others opt for more cosmetic updates like painting or adding new flooring. And still, others focus on energy-saving upgrades like insulation or solar panels. No

matter what type of renovation you're planning, it's important to have a clear vision for your project before getting started.

When it comes to home renovations that add value to your property, it's important to do some research first. Take a look at current property listings in the area and see what types of features are desired by potential buyers. This can help you determine which aspects of your own home should be upgraded or changed in some way to better meet their

expectations.

Know What You Can DIY

While there are definitely many home improvement projects you should leave to the experts, there are quite a few that you can manage on your own. For instance, with a tutorial and the right tools, you can paint your own home. Or you can even install and

troubleshoot home security cameras with confidence by using online resources. So check out what aspects of your home updates you can manage on your own to save some time and money!

Translating Estimated Costs Into a Budget

One of the most important aspects of any home renovation is budgeting and estimating costs. The last thing you want is to run out of money before your project is finished. To avoid this, it's important to sit down and figure out how much money you have to work with before getting started. Once you have a budget in mind, start collecting estimates

from contractors for the different aspects of your project. Remember to get at least three different estimates for each task to ensure you're getting the best possible price.

Incorporating a Home Office Into Your Plans

Many homeowners are choosing to add a home office to their homes during renovations. This is because there are many benefits to having a dedicated space for work. First, it can help to increase productivity. When you have a specific area for work, it can be easier to focus and get tasks done. Additionally, it can provide a sense of separation between work and home life. This can be beneficial for both your mental health and your relationships. Finally, a home office can add value to your home if you ever decide to sell.

If you are considering adding a home office to your home, be sure to choose a location that gets plenty of natural light. Natural light can help to improve mood, boost alertness, and increase productivity. So, not only will you get the benefit of a dedicated workspace, but you'll also enjoy the benefits of natural light.

Finding Your Ideal Contractor

Another important aspect of home renovations is finding capable and trustworthy contractors. This is especially important if you're planning a major renovation that requires demolition or structural changes. When looking for contractors, get referrals from friends or family members who have recently completed similar projects. Once you have a few names in mind, check out online reviews and compare pricing before making your final decision.

The Right Apps and Software for Contractors

In order for your home renovation to run smoothly, it's important that your contractor has the right apps and software in place. This includes apps that help contractors keep track of tasks, deadlines, and budget constraints. Other useful apps allow for storing and sharing documents related to your project, and some take notes during meetings or site visits. If your contractor needs to send you an estimate, they may consider implementing takeoff software. With this type of software, they can quickly bid on projects and send accurate cost estimates to their customers.

Home Renovation Timeline

It's no secret that home renovations can take longer than expected. There are always unforeseen delays or issues that pop up along the way. That's why it's important to establish a timeline with your contractor before getting started on your project. With a timeline in place, be sure to communicate any changes or delays as soon as possible so that everyone is on the same page.

Home Renovation Schedule

In addition to having a timeline for your project, it's also important to establish a schedule with your contractor. This will help ensure that work is being done when it's supposed to be done and that everyone is aware of when they need to be on site. HAR.com notes that a

well-organized schedule will help keep your project on track and prevent any costly delays later.

Communicating Your Ideas Effectively With Your Contractor

Throughout the course of your home renovation project, it's important that you keep lines of communication open with your contractor. This means being available when they need

additional information from you or when there are changes to be made. From day one, as NCCER points out, it’s important to have clear communication with your contractor. Good

communication will help ensure that your vision for the project is realized.

Protect Your Investment with a Home Warranty

When you've invested time and money into renovating your home, it's important to make sure that investment is protected. That's where a home warranty comes in — here's an option. By considering a home warranty, you can safeguard your newly renovated home against unexpected repair costs and ensure peace of mind for years to come. A home warranty can cover a variety of systems and appliances in your home, from HVAC and plumbing to kitchen appliances and more. So don't let the stress of potential repairs

overshadow the joy of your renovated space. Invest in a home warranty and rest easy knowing your home is protected.

Plan for Amazing Payoff

Whether you’re renovating your kitchen, bathroom, or designing your home office, no one ever said that home renovation is easy. But with careful planning, helpful software, clear communication, a home warranty, and the right team in place, it will be well worth the

investment.

Contributing writer: Sadie Cohen