Renovate with No Regrets: Stealth’s 5 Steps to Success

Renovating your home can be an exciting and rewarding experience, but the remodeling process is a challenging one - and small mistakes can be costly. Fortunately, you can plan around and avoid these pitfalls by adhering to a few simple (but vitally important!) steps in the planning process. Read on for our list of the top five steps you as a homeowner should consider when planning for a successful home renovation or remodel.

Step #1: Set a Realistic Budget

One of the most common mistakes homeowners make is underestimating the cost of their renovation. As you’re planning out your next project, make sure you’re considering all expenses associated with the construction or renovation process, including costs for material, labor and permits.

This is a great time to lean on the expertise of your general contracting partner, who should be well versed in the current cost of materials and be able to help you understand them fully. An expert contractor will also be able to provide you a range of options that meet a variety of price points and budgets.

Step #2: Hire the Right Contractor

Choosing an inexperienced or unlicensed contractor can lead to subpar workmanship and costly mistakes - over both the short- and long-term - so make sure to take your time in researching potential contractors. Read reviews, ask for references … and be sure to actually follow up with those references! Also, ask the general contractor about the experience they’ve had with similar projects. These steps are key to finding a reputable, licensed and insured contractor who has proper experience in the type of renovation you're planning.

Once you’ve settled on a potential contracting partner, ensure that you have a clear understanding of the project scope, timeline, and total cost before signing any contracts.

Check out our last blog post for the Stealth team’s top tips on finding the right contractor for you & your family!

Step #3: Plan for the Future

When planning a renovation, don’t forget to consider your future needs! Incorporate features that will accommodate future changes for your family or your lifestyle, such as welcoming home new family members or working remotely. It’s always smart to consider the future resale value of your home when making choices on design and materials. And if you’re considering entering the rental market, these factors should play a role in decision-making as well.

While it’s not always possible to forecast your at-home needs, take the time to consider what you do have planned and how those plans might affect your next construction project.

Finding a licensed contractor is key to the health of any project, but working with a passionate, professional licensed construction partner can take your next project from “good” to “great”! At Stealth Construction, our team of experts are ready to support you throughout any and all elements of the home renovation process - from finalizing on-trend designs to sourcing the highest quality materials and ensuring your home is up-to-code.

Step #4: Don’t Ignore Lighting

Lighting is often overlooked, but it's a critical component of any renovation project - and it can drastically change the look and feel of your end results. Proper lighting can enhance the overall design of the space (as well as its functionality), while poor lighting can leave a space feeling drab, dull and draining.

When planning your remodel or renovation, consider the different types of lighting available, such as ambient, task, and accent lighting. Also, consider the space’s natural lighting and how it can be maximized. Plan to consult and strategize with your general contracting partner on this, as well!

Step #5: Plan for Adequate Storage

Cluttered and disorganized spaces are difficult to use and enjoy. And, most often, messy spaces result from a lack of storage planning. Plan for your storage needs and consider how to incorporate aesthetically pleasing storage solutions into the design of your renovation or remodel. Built-in shelves, cabinets, and closets are all potential options, though the right solution will depend on your unique project, space and needs.

By taking these five steps - and partnering with an experienced contractor! - you can create a beautiful, functional space that meets your needs and exceeds your expectations. Connect with our team today to learn how Stealth Construction can maximize the ROI of your next project!