Browsing through Instagram, Pinterest, and Houzz is a great way to start getting inspiration for your new room in your home. However, actually remodeling and managing a remodel is a very tricky, and daunting, task. Unfortunately, project management is essential for a home remodel. Here is a beginner guide on the first steps to managing a project in your home without complications.
Lists
Writing down(or typing out) a full detailed list is the the most efficient way to start out any project. Lists are extremely important because you will be able to lay out all your thoughts without missing any details.
The most important list that needs to be well laid out and organized, is your scope of work. This is basically a detailed list of everything to be done, from start to finish. Having detailed specifications makes it easier to obtain multiple quotes. This ensures that it will be a fair comparison since all the builders will be quoting from same criteria.
Make sure everyone is on the same page
When dealing with multiple contractors (i.e. Plumber, Electrician, Cabinet Company) give your list of specifications to each subcontractor. This list should include times they will be in your home, and locations. This ensures that no one is working on-top of each other. Discuss the specifications with your subcontractors as they will be able to provide extra help and advice.
Plan everything ahead
Before making a single phone call, make sure every detail is planned out. Planing as you go will add extra stress and add time constraints which may result in you making a choice you aren’t too pleased with. Take a couple of weeks to organize all your thoughts. Write your specifications, draw up the plans and make all the decisions before proceeding. This will save you time and a lot of extra money
Stand by your decisions
This is a hard task, as there will be a massive amount of questions being thrown your direction. Your best bet will be to try to pre-empt as many of these decisions as you can. An even better solution would be to provide the information in advance. Making decisions under pressure will lead to impulse moves you may regret later. Taking too long, however, could hold up the project. This will cost you time, money and the patience of your builder.
Factor in a contingency
Even with the most prepared person, problems and surprises can, and most likely will arise. It is always a good idea to factor in a 10% to 20% contingency within your budget for these matters. In situations where walls are being torn down, and carpet ripped out, it’s important to expect the worst. Don’t let any issues throw you off your A-game. After all, your are the creation behind your home renovation.
