(Homeowners) First-Time Renovation: What to Expect and How to Prepare

Planning your first renovation can feel overwhelming. Between Pinterest inspiration boards and horror stories from friends, it's hard to know what's realistic and what's fantasy. After managing hundreds of renovation projects, we've learned that success comes down to three things: realistic expectations, proper preparation, and choosing the right team.

This guide walks you through exactly what to expect from your first renovation and how to prepare for success.

The Reality Check: What Renovations Actually Cost and Take

Budget Reality: Add 10-20% to Whatever You Think

Every first-time renovator makes the same mistake: they budget for the work they can see. But renovations always uncover hidden issues that need fixing before you can proceed with the pretty stuff.

Common Hidden Costs:

• Electrical upgrades - Old homes often need electrical updates to meet current codes

• Plumbing modifications - Moving fixtures almost always requires pipe rerouting

• Structural discoveries - That wall you want to remove might be load-bearing

• Insulation and ventilation - Required upgrades when walls are opened up

• Permits and inspections - Often more extensive than initially anticipated

Smart Budget Strategy: Start with your renovation wishlist, get quotes, then add 25% for discoveries. This isn't pessimism - it's planning. The renovations that stay on budget are the ones that planned for problems upfront.

Timeline Reality: Everything Takes Longer Than You Think

Realistic Timeframes:

• Bathroom renovation: 2-3 weeks (assuming no major plumbing moves)

• Kitchen renovation: 3-6 weeks (with standard layouts and no structural changes)

• Full house renovation: 3-6 months (depending on scope and size)

• Single room updates: 1-2 weeks (painting, flooring, fixtures)

Why Projects Take Longer:

• Material delivery delays (especially for custom items)

• Weather impacts on external work

• Discovery of issues that need addressing

• Inspection and approval processes

• Coordination between different trades

Timeline Planning Tip: Don't schedule your housewarming party for completion day. Plan it for 2-3 weeks later to account for final touch-ups and settling in.

Preparing for Life During Construction

Kitchen Renovations: Your Temporary Kitchen Strategy

Living without a kitchen is challenging, but manageable with preparation:

Essential Temporary Setup:

• Microwave, toaster oven, and electric kettle

• Mini fridge (if your main fridge is affected)

• Paper plates, cups, and disposable utensils

• Easy-to-prepare meals planned in advance

• Designated eating and food prep area

Pro Tip: Set up your temporary kitchen in a room with good ventilation and easy access to water. Laundry rooms often work well.

Bathroom Renovations: Access Planning

If It's Your Only Bathroom:

• Arrange alternative bathroom access (family, friends, or gym membership)

• Plan renovation phases to minimize total downtime

• Consider a temporary outdoor shower for summer renovations

• Stock up on baby wipes and dry shampoo

If You Have Multiple Bathrooms:

• Ensure the remaining bathroom can handle increased use

• Plan for additional cleaning and maintenance

• Consider upgrading toilet paper and towels for guest comfort

Managing Dust, Noise, and Disruption

Dust Control:

• Plastic sheeting to contain work areas

• Air purifiers in living spaces

• Daily cleanup routines

• Protective covers for furniture and belongings

Noise Management:

• Establish quiet hours with your contractor

• Plan to be out during the loudest work periods

• Warn neighbors about noise and timing

• Consider temporary accommodation for major demolition phases

Choosing Your Renovation Team

Getting Quotes That You Can Actually Compare

Request Detailed Breakdowns:

• Labor costs vs. material costs

• Specific material brands and grades

• Timeline with key milestones

• What's included and what's additional

• Cleanup and disposal arrangements

Three Quotes Is the Sweet Spot:

• One quote doesn't give you perspective

• Two quotes might both be outliers

• More than five becomes overwhelming and delays decisions

Red Flags in Quotes:

• Vague line items like "miscellaneous materials"

• Significantly lower pricing without explanation

• No timeline estimates

• Request for large upfront payments

• Pressure to sign immediately

Interview Questions That Reveal Professionalism

Ask About Their Process:

• "Walk me through how this project would proceed from start to finish"

• "How do you handle unexpected discoveries?"

• "What's your communication schedule with clients?"

• "How do you ensure quality at each stage?"

Ask About Problem-Solving:

• "Tell me about a recent project challenge and how you solved it"

• "What's the most common unexpected issue in projects like mine?"

• "How do you handle timeline delays?"

• "What happens if I'm not satisfied with the work quality?"

Ask For References:

• Recent projects similar to yours

• Contact details for past clients

• Photos of completed work

• Any projects that had complications and how they were resolved

Green Flags That Signal Quality

Professional Indicators:

• Proper licensing and comprehensive insurance

• Physical business address and established reputation

• Detailed written quotes and contracts

• Clear communication and prompt responses

• Portfolio of completed projects similar to yours

Process Indicators:

• Site visit before providing quote

• Questions about your lifestyle and needs

• Discussion of potential complications

• Timeline planning with contingencies

• Quality control checkpoints explained

Managing the Project Once It Starts

Communication That Prevents Problems

Establish Clear Protocols:

• Daily or weekly update schedule

• Primary contact person for questions

• How decisions will be communicated

• Process for approving changes

• Method for documenting progress

Document Everything:

• Keep records of all conversations

• Photo documentation of progress

• Written approval for any changes

• Payment records and receipts

• Warranty and guarantee information

Handling Changes and Surprises

The Change Order Process: When changes arise (and they will):

1. Stop work until the change is fully discussed

2. Get written estimates for cost and timeline impacts

3. Understand the implications before approving

4. Document the approval in writing

5. Update project timeline accordingly

Don't Approve Changes Under Pressure:

• Take time to consider the implications

• Discuss with family/partners if needed

• Get second opinions for major changes

• Understand both cost and timeline impacts

Quality Control Throughout the Project

Regular Inspection Points:

• End of demolition: Verify structural condition and prep work

• Rough-in completion: Check electrical, plumbing, and framing

• Pre-finishing: Ensure everything is ready for final finishes

• Substantial completion: Walk-through before final payment

What to Look For:

• Work matches the specifications in your contract

• Quality meets professional standards

• Safety protocols are being followed

• Site is kept reasonably clean and organized

• Materials match what was specified

Setting Yourself Up for Success

Before Work Starts

Prepare Your Home:

• Remove or protect valuables and furniture

• Set up temporary living arrangements

• Arrange for pets and children during noisy phases

• Take "before" photos for insurance purposes

• Notify neighbors about the project

Prepare Yourself:

• Accept that renovations are disruptive

• Plan for decision fatigue (you'll make hundreds of small decisions)

• Build in flexibility for your daily routines

• Expect some stress and plan coping strategies

• Remember why you're doing this renovation

During the Project

Stay Involved But Not Intrusive:

• Visit the site regularly but don't interfere with work

• Ask questions when you don't understand something

• Trust your contractor's expertise while maintaining oversight

• Speak up immediately if you see problems

• Keep the long-term vision in mind during temporary disruptions

After Completion

Final Inspection Checklist:

• Test all new fixtures and systems

• Check that finishes match specifications

• Ensure all cleanup is complete

• Collect warranty information

• Document any remaining punch-list items

Settling In:

• Give yourself time to adjust to the new space

• Complete any remaining decorating at your own pace

• Keep contractor contact information for warranty issues

• Take "after" photos to document the transformation

• Celebrate your successful renovation!

The Bottom Line

First-time renovations don't have to be nightmares. The projects that go smoothly have three things in common: realistic expectations, thorough preparation, and professional contractors who communicate clearly.

Key Takeaways:

• Budget 20% more than your initial estimates

• Timeline everything longer than you think it should take

• Choose contractors based on process and communication, not just price

• Prepare for disruption but plan how to manage it

• Document everything and maintain clear communication

Remember: A successful renovation isn't one without any challenges - it's one where challenges are handled professionally and the end result meets your goals.

Planning your first renovation? We'd love to help you set realistic expectations and choose the right approach for your project. Contact MAKEIT for a consultation that will help you avoid first-timer mistakes and set your project up for success.