Whether you’re a total DIYer or have a team of contractors on your remodel, a home renovation is a massive undertaking. No matter the size of your project, it’s important to plan ahead to keep things as stress-free as possible. From planning and budgeting to hiring contractors, there’s a lot to think about. Download our free home renovation template to help you stay organized.
When you’re new to DIY home renovation, starting small is a great way to get familiar with the process and build your confidence. Replacing cabinet handles, for example, is a fairly simple project that can give your kitchen a facelift without breaking the bank. If you’re a novice, Family Handyman’s step-by-step guide is an excellent resource for learning how to do it properly.
For the more ambitious beginner, constructing non-load-bearing walls is another great place to start. As long as you’re not tampering with electrical wiring, this is a fairly straightforward project that can really help add value to your home. As an added bonus, if you choose to move on from your home, this project is one of the best ways to turn it into a rental.
Before you begin a major remodel, make sure to talk to your accountant about what kinds of updates may be eligible for tax deductions. It’s also a good idea to open a separate savings account specifically for your home renovation so you can avoid mixing personal transactions with those that are related to your remodel. This will save you the headache of trying to weed out the relevant receipts at tax time.