5 Key Questions to Ask Before Starting a Home Renovation
- Ace Contracting
- Mar 31
- 4 min read

Starting a home renovation project is an exciting opportunity to improve your living space and increase the value of your property. However, before diving in, it’s crucial to ask the right questions to ensure your project goes smoothly, stays within budget, and meets your expectations. Whether you’re renovating a kitchen, finishing a basement, or updating your bathroom, taking the time to plan ahead can make all the difference. Here are five key questions to ask before starting a home renovation.
1. What is My Budget, and How Will I Stick to It?
Before you even pick up a hammer, one of the most important questions to ask is about your budget. Renovations can quickly spiral out of control financially, so it's essential to establish a clear budget at the outset.
Things to Consider:
Estimate Costs: Research the cost of materials, labor, permits, and unexpected expenses. Some renovations, like kitchen remodels or structural work, may require a larger budget than others.
Contingency Fund: Set aside at least 10-20% of your budget for unexpected issues that may arise, like hidden water damage, electrical problems, or foundation issues.
Prioritize: Understand which elements of your renovation are most important. For example, if you’re updating a bathroom, you may want to splurge on high-end fixtures while keeping the tile selection more budget-friendly.
Once your budget is set, communicate it clearly with your contractor to ensure expectations align, and the renovation stays within your financial limits.
2. What Is the Timeline for the Project?
Renovations often take longer than expected, especially if you're tackling a large-scale project. Having a clear timeline will help you plan around the disruption that comes with renovations and set realistic expectations for when the project will be completed.
Things to Consider:
Project Scope: The larger the renovation, the longer it will likely take. A kitchen remodel could take several weeks, while a basement finishing project could span months.
Possible Delays: Weather, supply chain issues, and unexpected complications can extend the timeline. Ask your contractor about any potential delays and how they’ll be handled.
Phases: Break the project into phases and understand how each part of the renovation will be completed. For example, will you be able to use your kitchen partway through the renovation, or will you be without it entirely?
By asking about the timeline upfront, you’ll be able to plan your life accordingly and minimize any inconvenience.
3. Do I Need Any Permits or Approvals?
Depending on the nature and scale of your renovation, you may need permits or approval from the local government or homeowner association (HOA). Failing to secure the proper permits can result in fines or complications when selling your home in the future.
Things to Consider:
Permit Requirements: Major structural changes, electrical work, plumbing updates, or additions typically require permits. For smaller projects, like cosmetic updates or simple paint jobs, permits may not be necessary.
Code Compliance: A professional contractor will ensure that your renovation adheres to local building codes. This is especially important if you're making significant changes to the layout or infrastructure of your home.
Permit Fees: In addition to obtaining permits, make sure to budget for permit application fees.
By understanding which permits are required ahead of time, you’ll avoid delays and ensure that your project is compliant with local regulations.
4. Will I Need to Hire a Professional Contractor, or Can I Do It Myself?
While DIY projects can be fun and budget-friendly, larger renovations require the expertise of a professional. Assess whether your project is something you can manage yourself or if it requires the skills of a licensed contractor.
Things to Consider:
Skill Level: Consider whether you have the necessary skills to complete the renovation on your own. Projects like tiling a bathroom or installing a new sink might be manageable, but major work like plumbing or electrical systems is best left to professionals.
Time Commitment: Renovations can take up a lot of your time, especially if you’re working a full-time job. Hiring a contractor allows you to focus on other tasks while they handle the heavy lifting.
Liability: When hiring a contractor, ensure that they are insured and licensed. This protects you in case of accidents or damage to your home during the renovation.
If your project requires a professional, working with a reputable contractor like Ace Contracting ensures that the work is done to code and within the agreed-upon timeline.
5. How Will This Renovation Affect My Home’s Resale Value?
Whether you're renovating to sell your home or to enjoy for years to come, understanding how your renovations will impact the resale value is important. Some upgrades provide a higher return on investment (ROI) than others, so you want to make sure your money is well spent.
Things to Consider:
High-ROI Renovations: Kitchen remodels, bathroom updates, and basement finishes are known for offering a strong return on investment. These renovations tend to attract potential buyers and can increase the value of your home.
Neighborhood Standards: Consider what other homes in your neighborhood offer. If you’re in a modest area, a high-end renovation might not provide the best return. However, if you live in an upscale neighborhood, premium updates could help your home stand out.
Long-Term Value: Consider not only the immediate resale value but how the renovation will improve your long-term quality of life. Even if a project doesn't provide the highest ROI, it can enhance your enjoyment of your home for years to come.
Consulting a real estate agent or contractor can help you make decisions that will maximize your home's value while staying within your budget.
Final Thoughts:
Before starting a home renovation, it's essential to ask the right questions to ensure a smooth and successful project. By considering your budget, timeline, permits, the need for professional help, and the potential impact on your home’s value, you can make informed decisions and avoid common pitfalls. Working with a trusted contractor, like Ace Contracting, can help bring your vision to life while ensuring the renovation process stays on track.
If you’re ready to start your next renovation project, contact Ace Contracting today. We’re here to guide you through every step of the process and deliver the home of your dreams.
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