Renovating-a-House Checklist: How to Prioritize Your Projects

If you’ve finally saved up the money for a home remodel, you might be wondering where to get started. Start your checklist for renovating your house here.

Home repair and improvement is more than a $4-billion-dollar-a-year industry. Renovating a house can result in your dream home. But avoid turning your home into a money pit.

If you’ve saved up for a home remodel, do you know where to start? We’ll help you get the most bang for your buck!

Keep reading for the renovating-a-house checklist and keep your renovation on track.

Assess the Situation

Before you start, get a professional house assessment. A home inspector costs money upfront but saves you money in the long run.

An inspector knows what to look for in all the right places. He’ll test the HVAC and plumbing systems.

Have a Written Plan

Once you’ve got the assessment, figure out what the priorities are. Does the HVAC system need repairs? Is there mold anywhere?

Depending on how much renovating you’re doing, you’ll need some permits from the city. Apply for the permits before you get started on the renovations.

It’s a hard truth that sometimes a big chunk of your savings goes straight to repairs. Don’t let little repairs slide because they often turn into big problems.

Something a lot of homeowners neglect is the roof. Speaking of the roof…

Address the Roof and Foundation First

The roof and foundation are two of the most important parts of your home. Part of the roofing structure is the gutter system. 

If the inspector sees a problem with the roof or foundation, call an expert right away. You might have a great handyman but leave your roof to the experts.

Use an experienced, professional company such as Landmark Roofing. If your roof is old or leaking, start with a new roof. Make sure the gutters are functioning well.

Take care of any water issues now. There’s nothing worse than having a newly renovated space ruined because of water infiltration.

Which Rooms?

If you’re not renovating the entire house, decide which rooms are the priority.

The decision is largely driven by personal preference. But you might want to take a look at this list to see which rooms give you the best return on resale value.

Whatever rooms you choose for renovation, write down every type of product you’ll need. Order each product before you start the project. If something’s on backorder, you don’t want it holding up the renovation.

What Order?

Structural carpentry comes first. Then, while the walls are open, add electrical, plumbing, and HVAC ductwork.

Close the walls with drywall. Then do the finishing touches of baseboards, molding, and trim.

Now you’re ready for paint and wallpaper. Once that’s done and everything’s dry, install the flooring.

Now You’ve Got Your Renovating-a-House Checklist!

Now that you’ve got your renovating-a-house checklist, you’re ready to get started! Have your home assessed first and take care of any necessary repairs or replacements.

Obtain your permits and have a written plan. Make sure the roof and foundation are problem-free before starting any renovations.

Decide which rooms you’re renovating. Order all your fixtures, lights, and other products before starting. Be sure and do everything in the order above.

Looking for more home advice? Keep reading our blog!