This home renovation post is all about my tips and steps that I am currently using as we remodel our home.
Planning for a Home Renovation: How I’m Approaching It (and Tips for You Too)
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Shop the Remodel Tools I Actually Use Reader Favorites
My go-to for receipts, swatches, and notes by space.
Shop Now →Declutter every move—especially helpful before packing.
Shop Now →Design ideas from an interior designer—great inspo.
Shop Now →Makes cooking possible during kitchen demo days.
Shop Now →When we bought our new home, I knew we’d be diving into a major renovation. Planning the project is just as important as picking tile. Here’s exactly how I’m approaching it—and what I’d recommend if you’re starting yours too.
Related reads: Weekly Cleaning Routine · Entryway Organization · Sunday Reset Routine
Step 1: Dream Big, Then Get Real
The fun part? Pinterest boards and imagining your “after.” Once I dreamed, I prioritized into two lists:
- Must-haves—structural or functional updates (floors, cabinets, layout).
- Nice-to-haves—the upgrades I’d love, but could delay if needed (custom pantry, built-ins).
Step 2: Stay Organized
I track selections (paint, cabinets, hardware) in a shared doc with my contractor. For hands-on planning, these help:
- Room by Room Planner—store receipts, swatches, and per-room notes.
- The Home Edit Workbook—perfect for decluttering before a move.
- Call It Home—design ideas that kept me focused on the details that matter.
Step 3: Understand the Finances Early
Costs creep. Here’s what I considered:
- Cash savings—simple, but it goes fast.
- HELOC—borrow against home equity; flexible draws while you build.
- Personal loans—unsecured option if you don’t want to use equity.
- Contingency—I add 10–15% for surprises (older homes may need 15–20%).
I’m not a financial advisor—always compare rates, terms, and fees for your situation.
Step 4: Build a Timeline That’s Actually Realistic
Best-case timelines are…best case. I mentally add a few weeks (sometimes months) to stay sane. If your kitchen’s down, this Double Cast Iron Hot Plate makes quick meals doable.
Step 5: Keep Communication Open
Renovations = lots of decisions. I do weekly check-ins with my contractor: what’s done, what’s next, and what’s waiting on me. I also confirm changes in writing so there’s a paper trail.
Shop the Tools Mentioned
Final Thoughts
Give yourself grace—renovations get messy and stressful, but it’s worth it. My mantra: plan twice, build once, and always keep that financial cushion.
Renovation FAQs
How much contingency should I budget?
I set aside 10–15% for surprises; 15–20% for older homes or bigger unknowns.
HELOC vs personal loan—what’s better?
HELOCs often have lower rates and flexible draws but use your home as collateral. Personal loans are unsecured and simple to set up, though rates may be higher. Compare APRs, fees, and payoff timelines.
How do I keep track of all the selections?
A shared doc/spreadsheet plus a physical planner works best for me. I keep SKUs, lead times, costs, and links in one sheet so my contractor sees exactly what’s chosen.
Can I live at home during a renovation?
Usually, yes—just plan for dust and downtime. Zone off work areas, protect floors, and set up a temporary kitchen (that hot plate saved me!).
What’s a realistic timeline?
Expect delays from permits, materials, and scheduling. I add a buffer to whatever estimate I’m given, so I’m not stressed if things run long.
