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How to Plan a Home Remodel: A Guide for Beginners

Published on: Jan 17, 2025

Home remodeling can be exciting but overwhelming, especially for beginners. But it’s worth it — whether you're upgrading a single room or reimagining your entire living space, a thoughtful plan can save time, money, and stress. Here’s a quick guide to help you simplify the process and achieve your dream space in seven easy steps:

  1. Define Your Goals and Budget

Before starting your remodel, clarify your goals — whether it’s improving functionality, boosting aesthetics, or enhancing energy efficiency. Defining these objectives will help guide your decisions. Equally important is establishing a realistic budget that includes materials, labor, permits, and a contingency fund for unexpected expenses (typically 10%–20% of the total budget).

  1. Create a Detailed Plan

A well-thought-out plan ensures your remodel stays on track. Here are some key elements to include:

  • Scope of work: Identify which areas of your home will be remodeled and what tasks need to be completed.
  • Timeline: Set a realistic timeline that factors in time for design, permits, sourcing materials, and construction.
  • Design: Create a clear vision for your space by gathering inspiration from design websites, magazines, and Pinterest boards.

If your remodel is complex, consider hiring an architect or designer to help bring your vision to life.

  1. Research and Secure Permits

For remodeling projects involving electrical, plumbing, or structural changes, secure the required permits by researching local codes. Skipping permits can result in fines and issues when selling your home.

  1. Source Your Materials

One of the most critical aspects of remodeling is finding the right materials. Opting for sustainable and budget-friendly materials can save money and reduce your environmental footprint. Here’s where you can start:

  • Big-box retailers: Stores like Home Depot and Lowe's are popular for their variety and convenience.
  • Local lumber yards and tile shops: These often carry unique or higher-quality materials.
  • Salvaged and reclaimed materials: Using reclaimed materials is both eco-friendly and cost-effective.

If you’re interested in sustainable sourcing, check out The ReUse People’s retail warehouse. We specialize in salvaged and repurposed building materials, including doors, cabinets, fixtures, and more. By purchasing through The ReUse People, you not only save money but also help divert usable materials from landfills.

  1. Hire the Right Professionals

If you plan to hire professionals, make sure they align with your goals and budget. Interview contractors, check references and reviews, and consider a general contractor to coordinate and streamline your project.

  1. Prepare Your Space

Before construction, clear the area, protect furniture and flooring, and arrange temporary living spaces if needed. For kitchen remodels, set up a temporary kitchen to maintain normalcy.

  1. Monitor Progress and Add Final Touches

Stay in regular communication with your contractor to address issues quickly. Once construction is complete, clean the space and add the final touches — paint, hardware, and décor — to bring your vision to life.

Sourcing Used Materials From The ReUse People

Ready for your remodel? Planning a remodel? Make choices that benefit your wallet and the planet with The ReUse People (TRP). Our retail warehouse offers a wide selection of salvaged materials, from reclaimed wood to vintage fixtures, perfect for unique, eco-conscious designs. Shop with us to reduce waste, support sustainability, and transform your home with purpose!

TRP reduces the solid waste stream and changes the way the built environment is renewed by salvaging building materials and distributing them for reuse. Relied on by architects, contractors, building owners, and federal, state, and local governments since 1993, we’ve deconstructed over 4,000 houses and buildings and diverted over 400,000 tons of waste from landfills. Learn more about our commercial and residential deconstruction, explore our salvaged materials for sale, or donate today to support our work!

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