When to Start Talking to a Contractor for Remodeling

There’s a remodel somewhere in your near future; you’re just not sure when. It’s hard to figure out the right time when you don’t know what to expect. You don’t want to start too early, but you also don’t want to start too late and learn that your contractor cannot accommodate your project. We’re here to help you navigate the age-old question: “When do I start?” Let’s dive in.

When Should a House Be Remodeled? 

This is a tough question.  Meaning, a home that’s been remodeled with high-quality components will outlast and out-live “builder products” that are frequently installed in many homes across the 515. One of the fundamental reasons we only remodel homes is the fact that we can use and install “better stuff."  That applies to windows, flooring, fixtures, paints, stains, cabinets and surfaces.

That all said, if your home is one of the 97% that we are requested to renovate, chances are some or all of the finishes are at “end of life”.  If that’s the case then ideally, it’s best to remodel your home every 15 to 20 years. After that time, the finishes on a brand-new home have worn out. The floors and walls are scratched, appliances break down, doors get stuck, and faucets drip. Remodels are your opportunity to address these issues while updating your home’s look and bolstering value. Understanding the costs of remodeling can help homeowners better plan and budget for their projects.

How Long Does It Take to Renovate a House?

Your home renovation timeline is entirely individual to your space. The condition of your home (and whether you need restorative work like a roof replacement or new electrical wiring and plumbing) plays a massive role, as does the scale of your remodeling project. (Do you need to add more functional space with an addition, or do you just need a simple kitchen remodel?) The more extensive your improvements are, the longer remodeling will take — but the results are worth it! Proper planning and support throughout the entire project are crucial to ensure a seamless and successful renovation experience.

Remodeling Timelines by Remodeling Project

• Kitchen Remodel: 6 to 11 weeks

• Bathroom Remodel: 3 to 9 weeks

• Basement Remodel: 6 to 12 weeks (this massive range is due to the fact that a renovation takes longer than a new finish)

• Additions: 10 to 23 weeks

Working with a professional design team can help ensure that these timelines are met efficiently.

Beginning a Remodeling Company Relationship: The Earlier, the Better

Many homeowners know they want a remodel but don’t know when they want one. The best way to find out is to meet with area contractors early on. By early on, I mean months or even years before you think you want to start your remodel. After all, remodeling is an extensive, usually months-long process that may require you to move out of your home or make other significant adjustments. You should know what you’re getting into as soon as possible!

Additionally, hiring a licensed general contractor ensures quality work and compliance with local regulations, helping you avoid potential costs associated with unlicensed general contractors elsewhere.

Here are a few reasons why meeting with remodelers upfront benefits you.

Set Timeline Expectations 

When you talk to general contractors, they can estimate how long it will take to complete your remodel. You can gauge the relative timeline of a remodel and plan accordingly. Commence your project at a time that makes sense for your schedule, and consider realistic expectations for how long the work takes to complete.

Discuss Average Costs & Financing

Just as much as a timeline estimate helps you plan your schedule, you need a cost estimate to settle your financing for home remodeling projects. Use cost estimates to determine how much money you need to save, borrow, or transfer from savings to cover your remodel; you can plan when you want to remodel from there.

At most remodeling firms, potential customers can easily receive a free estimate to help them plan their remodeling project.

Avoid Supply Chain Delays

Supply chain disruptions are a long-lasting consequence of the pandemic. If you plan to remodel your home soon, you’ll run into these issues at some point. So, be prepared for some setbacks in the contractor schedule. Starting with a remodeler as early as possible makes it easier to decide on your project materials, order them, and have them delivered. Faster delivery means moving into your new and improved home sooner!

Less Stress

Unless you’re the rare exception, for most people, life is busy. Remodeling is a massive time commitment, and overscheduled homeowners don’t always have enough energy to devote to the endeavor. So if you have free time now, jump on it!

Even if you don’t have room in your schedule now, it’s still a good idea to start planning. The more time you have to think about your remodel, the less stressed you’ll feel when it comes time to make it happen. An advanced contractor meeting enables you to meticulously plan your remodel, so it’s as smooth of a process as possible. Local contractors in Des Moines, IA, can provide personalized support and construction services and expertise to reduce stress during the remodeling process.

Experience a Compelling Difference 

We believe in quality craftsmanship and in making progress daily at Compelling Homes. We won't start a project until we know how long it takes to get the materials we need for construction; that way, we're not waiting around for parts and disrupting your normal home routine any longer than we have to. Read more about our remodeling order of operations and see what sets us apart from other builders by visiting our five-step process. Because, at Compelling Homes, we don't stop at "good enough"... we make it Compelling!

Keep in mind that there's no perfect time to remodel your home. You'll always have reasons not to commit; don't let them hold you back. Start the conversation with us today.