Home Remodel Tips for a Successful Renovation

🔨 1. Start With a Clear Vision  

Before calling contractors or buying materials, define your goals.

• Do you want to improve functionality?

• Increase home value?

• Modernize an outdated space?

Create a renovation vision board or Pinterest collection with colors, layouts, and inspiration images. The clearer your plan, the smoother the process.

📌 2. Set a Realistic Budget (With Wiggle Room)  

Renovation costs add up quickly — especially in older coastal homes where hidden issues can arise.
Include:

• Materials

• Labor

• Permits

• Design fees

• A 10–20% contingency fund

This buffer will save you from stress if unexpected repairs pop up (and they often do).

🧰 3. Hire the Right Professionals  

Savannah and the Lowcountry have many experienced contractors, but not all are right for your project.
Look for:

• Licensed and insured professionals

• Strong local reviews

• Clear, detailed estimates

• Proven experience in similar renovations

For historic Savannah properties, make sure your contractor understands preservation guidelines.

🗂️ 4. Get All Permits Before Starting  

Skipping permits may seem tempting, but it can lead to fines, delays, or issues when selling your home later.
Typical projects that require permits include:

• Structural changes

• Electrical and plumbing work

• Additions

• Major HVAC updates

Local municipalities (like Savannah, Hilton Head, and Bluffton) each have specific requirements — your contractor should guide you through them.

🎨 5. Choose Materials That Match Your Lifestyle  

Think beyond aesthetics.

• Got kids or pets? Choose durable, scratch-resistant flooring.

• Live near the coast? Opt for moisture-resistant materials that hold up to humidity.

• Love entertaining? Prioritize functional kitchen layouts and easy-clean surfaces.

Beautiful design is great — but long-lasting function is better.

⏳ 6. Expect the Timeline to Shift

Renovations rarely follow the exact timeline. Supplies get delayed, custom pieces take longer, and surprises behind walls happen.
Keep communication open with your contractor and build cushion weeks into your schedule when possible.

🧹 7. Prepare for the Mess  

Renovations come with noise, dust, and temporary inconveniences.
To stay sane:

• Seal off non-renovated rooms

• Use dust barriers

• Relocate valuables and breakables

• Set up a temporary kitchen if you're updating yours

And if you can stay with family or friends temporarily — even better!

🌟 8. Keep the End Goal in Mind  

Renovations can be stressful, but they’re also incredibly rewarding.
Every delay, dust cloud, and design decision leads to a home that suits you better — one that feels fresh, functional, and perfectly “you.”

Picture the finished space. The investment, effort, and patience will be worth it.