Thinking of starting a remodel ... now what?
Consumer Roadmap Overview
It's essential to work closely with your contractor throughout these phases, communicate your preferences clearly, and remain flexible to adapt to any unforeseen challenges that may arise during the remodeling process.
Phase 1
Indentify & engage a licensed PRO general contractor
Establish a project scope
Anticipate investment level
Thinking of starting a remodel ... now what?
Consumer Roadmap Overview
Phase 1 - Get Started
Indentify & engage a licensed PRO general contractor
- Set interviews with prospective contractors. Meeting with more than one contractor is always a good idea. Discuss your ideas, wants, needs and desires for your future project.
- PATHS FOR FINANCING (Coming soon!)
Establish a project scope
A PRO Contractor should help you assemble the team you need depending on the scope of your project.
- This team may consist of, but not limited to: A General Contractor, drafter, architect, interior designer and/or lender/financing
- This team may be in-house (design/build) or subcontracted
Anticipate investment level
- It is also important at this stage to identify and discuss your budget and estimated costs you will invest into your project.
Potential PRO Partners in phase 1: General Contractor, Drafter/Architect, Interior Designer, Lender/Financing
Phase 2 - Design
Create project drawings
- In this stage you will begin the conceptualization and design.
- You will work with your contractor in collaboration with a designer, drafter and/or architect to CREATE PROJECT DRAWINGS.
Code & zoning review
- Identifying setbacks and buildable areas will happen during the ZONING REVIEW. Codes vary per jurisdiction, ensuring your contractor will meet the proper code requirements required for your project.
Preliminary budget review
- REVIEW YOUR PRELIMINARY BUDGET and initial project investment level.
Potential PRO Partners in phase 2: General Contractor, Drafter/Architect, Interior Designer.
Phase 3 - Pre-Construction
Select materials, fixtures and finishes
- These can greatly impact the investment needed.
- A designer will simplify this process and give you the professional guidance necessary for the best outcomes.
Finalize financial proposal
- This should be a written, detailed proposal all parties can easily understand.
- Secure financing – Confirm how much you will need and how long it will take to access the funds when needed. Allow extra funds for unforeseen work or add-ons.
Permitting
- Your city jurisdiction will dictate if your project requires a permit (s). Ensure your contractor has applied for the necessary permits for your project scope.
Potential PRO Partners in phase 3: General Contractor, Interior Designer, CITY PERMITS & PLANNING DEPARTMENT, Lender Financing
Phase 4 - Construction
Demolition
- Prep: Protect the home and inhabitants from airborne debris, and the removal of existing items that are not used in the new design.
Construction
- Physical execution of the design and plans to the built environment, while ensuring all components and fixtures meet local code requirements. Work is performed by skilled craftsperson in their specific trade.
- Work should be outlined in a schedule that is agreed upon with all parties of the contract.
Inspections
- Contractors will schedule inspections as required per project to ensure everything meets the agreed-upon standards and complies with regulations.
Potential PRO Partners in phase 4: General Contractor, Interior Designer, CITY PERMITS & PLANNING DEPARTMENT, Lender Financing
Phase 5 - Completion
Evaluation
- Both parties then agree on an upon scope of work for punch list. A punch list may include scratches, dents, unfinished work, etc.
- The general contractor addresses all outstanding issues or touch-ups.
Welcome home
- After approval from both you and the contractor, the home is officially handed over to you, marking the successful completion of the remodeling project.
Warranty
- The warranty step of a remodel is a guarantee or promise that the work and materials used in the renovation project will meet certain standards of quality and will be free from defects for a specified period of time.
- It’s a crucial aspect of the remodeling process to ensure that clients have recourse in case any issues arise after the project is completed.
- Once the remodeling work is completed, a final inspection is conducted to ensure everything meets the agreed-upon standards and complies with regulations.
Potential PRO Partners in phase 5: General Contractor, Interior Designer, CITY PERMITS & PLANNING DEPARTMENT, Lender Financing, Sub and Specialty Contractors

