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Planning a renovation can be exciting and you may be tempted to jump right to the fun stuff like picking out paint colors and choosing new fixtures. However, in order for your renovation to be successful, there are a few things to consider before you even get started: 

1. Hiring Professionals

Even if you’re an avid DIYer, it may be necessary to hire a contractor to do things you cannot do. For example, you may consider hiring an electrician or a plumber if you aren’t sure about your skills in these specialized areas. 

Before hiring anyone, make sure to do your research. Ask for references from friends and family who have done renovations of their own or turn to the Internet for reviews and testimonials from customers who were once in your shoes. 

2. Obtaining Permits

Many homeowners fail to obtain building permits for their renovations because they think they are an unnecessary time-wasting burden. The reality is, building permits are extremely important as they ensure your renovations adhere to structural and fire safety standards. 

If you fail to obtain the proper permits, then you could be forced to rip out all the hard work you put into your renovation project. 

3. Sticking to Your Budget

Every good renovation starts with a solid budget. While it’s important to know how much you can afford to spend, it’s also important to plan for the unexpected because no matter how much you plan, something is bound to pop up.

When creating your budget for your home remodel, be sure to work in a contingency fund for unplanned costs and throw in a little extra for things like eating out or staying in a hotel while the renovation is underway. 

4. Meeting Deadlines

If you’re hoping to have your home renovation complete before a major holiday or some important family gathering, be sure to check the calendar and work your way backward. Plan an extra two weeks to a month after the estimated completion of the remodel in case the project takes a little longer than expected. 

The last thing you want is to feel disappointment when your guests show up to a half-finished home renovation during the holidays, so be sure you give yourself some wiggle room on the calendar. 

5. Protecting the Kids and Pets

A home remodel is stressful, to say the least, but for your little humans and four-legged family members, it can be downright dangerous. To protect the ones you love most, be sure to install safety gates to keep them out of work areas and be sure all tools are out of reach. 

It may make sense also, to ask a friend or family member to watch your pets while construction is underway. With workers coming and going, a door left ajar can be all too tempting for a stressed dog or cat. 

6. Plan for Plumbing Outages

If your renovation is of the bathroom kind, you may find yourself without water for a short period of time as your plumber does what he does best. You can help make this time easier by having water ready for drinking, cooking, and flushing the toilet. 

Buy or fill jugs of drinking water and place them in the fridge. Place jugs of water on the counter for cooking and fill the bathtub with water to use for flushing the toilet. Be sure to place a bucket next to the tub for easy flushing. 

Renovating a home is more than just picking out paint colors. Successful renovations require planning ahead and careful consideration. Using the tips outlined above will ensure your home remodel goes off without a hitch. 
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Related:
7 Strategies To Follow Your Budget During A Home Renovation
Checklist for Having a Smooth Home Renovation Process
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