Whole house remodeling is an accomplishment to be proud of—transforming the house you’ve called home into the ideal space you’ve always envisioned and worked hard for. Now that you’ve set your mind to recreating your home, it’s time to figure out the next steps and make it an everyday reality.
On its face, a whole home remodel is complicated, which isn’t far from the truth. Organizing your wants and budget, asking yourself about the best layout, and keeping in mind utilities and regulations are all a part of the remodeling package. To help you navigate a whole house remodel, we’ve laid out a planning guide to help you achieve your best remodel while easing the process into actionable steps.
Home Renovation vs. Remodel
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Before we dig into the guide, it’s important to underline the distinct differences between a home renovation and a remodel. They are used interchangeably, and most folks understand what you mean, but they have very different implications when exploring a remodel or scouting remodel companies.
A home renovation generally involves restoring or updating existing elements of the house, while a remodel means making significant structural changes and alterations. Essentially, a renovation improves what is there, while a remodel is a complete transformation.
First Steps: Your Whole House Remodel Guide
Before looking into a company that can handle your remodel project, there are a few steps to nail down. Remember, the more you know and have considered, the easier the whole home remodel will be.
What are Your Remodel Budget & Priorities?
Perhaps not the most exciting step, but certainly the most important: know what you can afford and are willing to spend on your remodel. Consider your financial resources and stay realistic. While some guides suggest researching your design ideas first, putting the budget before the inspiration makes you less likely to be carried away by wants and stay grounded within your means.
Once you have a firm idea of your budget, look at your priorities. Which rooms would you spend more on, and are the most important to you? Do you need to expand any spaces or add a room? Do you want greater features in the bathroom or kitchen? Knowing what matters most helps you divide your budget by priorities rather than spreading yourself thin.
Design: Inspiration & Research
Here is where the fun begins. Explore remodel websites, magazines, and social media platforms to get a sense of what you like. Collect any ideas, specific color names, features, and concepts that catch your eye. Enjoy making a mood board of your vision. This will make talking with a designer much easier and help avoid any delay in that step of the process.
Funding Your Whole House Remodel
With your budget set, your ideas clear, and design preferences outlined, it’s time to think about where the funding is coming from. Much like buying a home, a remodel shouldn’t leave you behind in anything. Even if you did this step while creating a budget, it’s a good idea to double-check how you’ll fund the home’s remodel so you’re left with both an ideal home and still comfortable financially.
Zoning & Permits: Project Musts
Now is the time to ensure your remodel is financially secure. Just like buying a home, a remodel shouldn’t leave you stretched thin. Even if you’ve already considered funding while budgeting, it’s wise to double-check your financial plan. This way, you can achieve your dream home while staying financially comfortable.
Consider Your Home Utilities
Your electricity, water, and gas can constrain your remodel, particularly if the structure of your home will be dramatically changed. If your remodel is extensive, discussing how these aspects will be affected during the project and the challenges that may arise is crucial.
Driving Your Home Remodel Plan: Design and Build Whole House Remodeling Teams in Northern Virginia
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Some homeowners may hire individual contractors, while others might attempt a DIY approach, but working with a design-build team takes remodeling to a whole new level of convenience. Professional contractors are skilled and licensed for whole-house remodels, but they often require you to find your own architect or will outsource one. This reliance on multiple third parties can slow down the project and lead to miscommunication of your vision. A design-build team, however, ensures a cohesive and streamlined process.
Working with a design-build remodeling firm means everyone is under one roof, providing significant value and a streamlined process that combines architectural design, construction expertise, and project management. The coordination allows a seamless flow of information and communication, preventing potential miscommunication or costly errors and delays.
Working with Schroeder Design Build offers an exceptional experience for Northern Virginia homeowners planning a whole home remodel project. With benefits ranging from their comprehensive approach to their in-house team of skilled professionals, you can rest assured that your remodel will meet all necessary requirements and match your vision. Contact us today to start your journey with us.
