If you’re thinking about renovating your home, you’ve come to the right place. The renovation process can be daunting, but we’ve got all the information you need to make it a smooth and successful one.
From finding contractors and builders to getting quotes for projects like repainting or adding a new bathroom, we’ve got all the tips on how to make your house into something truly special!
| Key Takeaways |
|---|
| Home renovations involve several phases, from planning and budgeting to execution and maintenance. |
| To run plumbing during a renovation, you must know the location of the existing pipes and plan for any new installations or re-routings. |
| Home renovation shows can provide inspiration for design ideas and helpful tips for managing your project. |
| A successful renovation requires careful preparation, including setting realistic timelines, budgets, and contingencies. |
| Before starting a renovation project, it’s important to research local regulations and obtain any necessary permits. |
Contractors And Builders
Some people also find it helpful to talk to contractors and builders, who know what they’re looking at and can offer advice on the best materials to use.
For example, if you have a lot of contractors in your area that you know or have heard about, ask them if there are any issues with finding work right now.
If there aren’t any major renovations going on in your area because everyone is busy doing something else (like working on their houses), then getting your home renovated may be harder than usual.
This is especially true if you need lots of contractors working together on one project – like replacing windows or remodeling walls – as more hands mean more money spent on labor costs alone!
While talking with a contractor might not help much when trying to decide which materials are best suited for your specific situation or goals (see below), having an expert give advice could be invaluable when deciding whom should do all that work for you once it’s decided what needs done.”
Planning a home renovation project? Check out our guide on how do home renovations work? for a step-by-step breakdown of the process, from setting goals to choosing a contractor.
Retail Stores
If you’re looking for a major home renovation, your best bet is to start by visiting a retail store that sells the type of product you need.
This will help narrow down further options and allow you to ask salespeople about their recommendations. If possible, also talk with managers and ask for referrals from other customers who have had similar projects completed in the past.
Homeowners Associations
The best way to get a feel for how much it might cost, and what other people have done, is by talking to your neighbors.
If you live in an HOA community or apartment complex, the management company will probably have information on past renovations that have been done in the neighborhood. They may even be able to tell you which contractors were used and their contact numbers.
If you don’t know anyone who’s had any experience with home renovations or if there aren’t many people around who can give advice look online at sites like Houzz or Pinterest where homeowners post pictures of projects they’ve done themselves or hired contractors for.
You’ll find everything from kitchen remodels (including countertops) all the way up through full-house makeovers complete with new roofs and landscaping.
If you’re renovating your home, you’ll need to know how to locate your plumbing vent stack. Our comprehensive guide on how to find your plumbing vent stack explained can provide you with the necessary information.
Online Sites
Online sites can provide you with a list of contractors, suppliers and local services. They also give you access to local events in the area. These sites are very handy for finding renovation professionals in your area without having to do any legwork yourself.
Online sites are great sources for finding major home renovations such as flooring, kitchen renovations, bathroom remodeling and more.
Online Sites Table
| Site Name | Description |
|---|---|
| Houzz | This online platform focuses on home design and renovation, providing users with access to a wide variety of design ideas and a directory of professionals to help with their renovation projects. |
| HomeAdvisor | This platform connects homeowners with local service professionals like contractors, plumbers and electricians. Users can read reviews and request project quotes directly through the site. |
| Angie’s List | Angie’s List is a subscription-based site that provides access to a directory of home professionals and contractors and includes verified reviews from other users. This site is currently only available in the United States and Canada. |
| Porch | Porch offers users the ability to search for professionals by Zip code, view verified ratings, and credentials of service professionals, including contractors in your area. Users can request project quotes directly through the site. |
| Yelp | This platform provides reviews and ratings of local businesses including contractors and offers a list of events and activities happening in the area. Yelp is primarily focused on food and restaurant review and has a social character encouraging to leave comments and reviews on different services. |
Note: This table gives readers a range of options for online sites that allow people to find local contractors, suppliers, and services to help with their renovation projects.
Resource Books
The best way to get started is by reading. There are many books on home renovation, and they can cover everything from specific renovations (bathroom remodels, kitchen remodels) to learning more about the process of renovating.
Books also provide different perspectives and experiences; for example, one book might focus on how to do a particular renovation yourself while another might focus on how much money you should expect it will cost you per project.
Good plumbing is critical for an efficient home renovation project. Our expert advice on how do you run plumbing? can help you understand the process and ensure that your plumbing is done correctly.
Forums And Message Boards
If you’re looking for a way to meet other people who share your interests, or if you have questions about a particular topic and want to find the answers, forums and message boards are an excellent resource.
On these sites, users can ask questions related to their interest and get answers from the community.
You may also be able to find out about local events in your area related to the topic at hand or even professional services that could assist you with whatever it is that interests you most.
These websites allow you to interact with people from all over the world who share similar interests as well as follow discussions on topics ranging from gardening tips for beginners all the way up through advanced architecture theories used during major home renovations (and everything else in between).
Friends And Family
Ask friends and family for recommendations. If you have any contacts in the construction industry who you trust, ask them for referrals.
Ask for references from contractors and suppliers you are considering hiring.
Ask for advice about the project’s scope, schedule, budget and more before choosing a contractor to work with on your home renovation project.
After selecting a contractor to do your home renovation project ask them if they would be willing to give you feedback on how they could improve their business by using technology such as CRM software (customer relationship management) or mobile apps that track projects or inventory issues between projects like an app we created called Contractor Toolkit Pro (CTP).
Want to learn more about home renovation? Watching a home renovation show can provide you with a lot of inspiration and information. Check out our article on how to get a home renovation show for tips on how to make it happen.
Magazines
Magazines are a great way to get ideas for your next home renovation project. If you’re not sure where to begin, it’s worth checking out some magazines. Magazines can be found in libraries, newsstands and online resources like websites and blogs.
Magazines Table
| Magazine Name | Description |
|---|---|
| Architectural Digest | This magazine is focused on interior design, architecture and home décor, and offers an abundance of ideas for renovations. The magazine features inspiring homes of celebrities and public figures, as well as designers, and reports on design trends. |
| Dwell | Dwell Magazine features modern and contemporary design, with a focus on functional and minimalistic design ideas and highlights creative use of space. They also offer profiles of designers, architects and readers who showcase their own minimalistic interior designs. |
| Remodelista | Remodelista is a home design blog/magazine, focused on a minimal and eurocentric approach featuring different design styles: modern farmhouse, bohemian, industrial chic. They offer DIY tips, trending styles, and sources for products including fixtures and decorative items. |
| This Old House | Established in 1979, This Old House is a magazine that focuses on home renovation and restoration. They offer comprehensive ideas and inspiration on new builds and renovations alike. They also produce TV shows, podcasts and online seminars that cover various renovation projects, tips and techniques. |
| House Beautiful | From classic to modern design, House Beautiful are focused on home décor, DIY and design ideas. The magazine provides ideas on style, color schemes, and design principles while considering trendy and classic design trends. The magazine also shows off contestant’s renovated homes in every issue. |
Note: This table gives a list of magazine options for those looking to be inspired for a home renovation project. These magazines are available in print, online, or offered as subscriptions and can be found in libraries, newsstands and online resources for viewing.
Home Shows And Expos
Home shows and expos are a great place to find major renovation ideas for your home. They typically feature all the best builders, designers and tradespeople, who will come together under one roof for you to browse at your leisure.
Check out some of these home shows/expos happening in your area:
- Home Expo Melbourne (23rd-24th May)
- Sydney Home Show (11th-12th June)
- Perth Home Show (18th-19th June)
Are you considering a major home renovation? Our guide on how to find major home renovation explained provides you with the information you need to get started, including tips on budgeting, planning, and choosing a contractor.
Local Businesses
You may already have a local business in mind that you’d like to work with. If so, it’s best to start here.
Local businesses are more likely to know about local contractors and they’re also more likely to have a better understanding of the local market, which can help them recommend contractors and give you estimates based on your specific needs.
This can lead to better quality work and faster turnaround times! Since these businesses tend to be more intimate than national chains, there is usually a higher level of personal service as well.
If you’re unsure about which particular business would be best for your needs, consider looking through reviews online or asking friends who’ve hired similar services before what their experiences were like; this will help guide your decision-making process when choosing between different options for finding major home renovations
Service Providers You Already Use
If you already use a service provider, ask them for recommendations. They will be able to tell you who they’ve worked with and whether or not the contractor was professional. This is also a great way to find out the best contractors in town!
If you don’t already use a service provider, start asking questions about your renovation project and see what comes up. You may be surprised at what people have to say about their experiences with contractors in your area!
Conclusion
The key to finding a home renovation contractor or builder is to do your research and find one that’s right for you and your project. Make sure they have the experience and qualifications to complete the work in an efficient, timely manner.
You can also ask other homeowners for recommendations or check online reviews from previous clients who might have similar needs as well as budgets.
Further Reading
Here are some additional resources to help you with your home renovation project:
Renovation Rundown: Steps to Take for a Successful Renovation: This article from Allstate provides an overview of the steps you need to take when planning a renovation, from assessing your needs to hiring a contractor.
Types of Home Renovation: Which Ones Boost Value?: If you’re planning a renovation, you might be wondering which projects will add the most value to your home. This article from Investopedia breaks down the most popular renovation projects by their return on investment.
How to Renovate a House: A Comprehensive Guide: The Spruce offers a detailed guide on renovating a house including planning and budgeting, finding the right contractor, selecting materials and tackling various tasks.
FAQs
What are the most expensive parts of a home renovation?
The cost of a home renovation can vary depending on a variety of factors, but some of the most expensive parts of a renovation typically include structural work such as roofing, foundation, and electrical and plumbing systems.
How do I know if a home renovation is worth the investment?
If you’re planning a home renovation, it’s important to consider the cost versus the value it will add to your home. Factors such as the project’s return on investment, your neighborhood’s home values, and your long-term plans for the property can help you determine if the renovation is worth it.
How do I hire a contractor for my home renovation?
Hiring the right contractor can make or break your home renovation project. You should start by researching contractors in your area, checking for online reviews and references, and interviewing potential contractors to get a sense of their experience and style. Don’t forget to ask for a contract in writing, detailing the scope of work, timeline and compensation.
How can I finance my home renovation?
Depending on the scope of your renovation project, there are a variety of financing options available including loans, HELOCs or cash-out refinancing. It’s important to evaluate your financial responsibilities, long-term goals, and project budget to discover what tool might work for you.
How can I prepare my home for a renovation?
Before jumping into a big renovation project, there are steps you can take to prepare your home — clearing out space, protecting fragile belongings, securing any important documents and communicating with your household members, neighbors and local authorities. It is recommended that you also talk to your insurance provider to check if your home renovation project is covered under your home insurance policy.
My name is Hellen James, and I’m a home improvement blogger. As a blogger who writes about how to make your homes better, I’ve learned that everyone wants to know more about their houses and what they can do with them.