Whether your home is in desperate need of a facelift or you just want to update some outdated fixtures, renovating a house can be both expensive and overwhelming. While you may be tempted to start tearing down walls or smashing tiles with your bare hands, the best way to start a house renovation is by setting clear goals and having a well-defined plan. This article will take you through the necessary steps to make sure you have a smooth and successful renovation project. Find out more

Decide on a timeframe for the renovation. This doesn’t mean you can’t take longer or shorter than planned, but having a firm date in mind helps to keep the project on track. This is especially important if you have to pay for renovations with a mortgage, which often requires you to complete certain tasks by a specific date or face penalties.

Taking the First Step: Launching Your House Renovation Project the Right Way

Find out if your home is listed as a historic property, which will affect what you can and cannot do with it. Some renovations might even require you to get a permit, so it’s a good idea to do this research before you begin.

Determine how extensive the renovation will be and how much it will cost. While online searches can give you a ballpark figure, Prchal suggests calling contractors in your area for estimates.

Be aware that living in a house under renovation can be stressful and noisy. It’s a good idea to figure out how you will cope with this before the work begins — perhaps by renting a hotel room for a few weeks or moving out altogether, depending on the size of your project.