Homeowners often embark on remodels with an idea of everything they would like to do, but with very little understanding of how much it will actually cost them. A kitchen remodel can range from $50K to $350K, depending on the scope of work and the level of fixtures and finishes. Add to this the scope creep and unforeseen issues that sometimes occur in remodeling situations and it is not surprising that costs can get out of hand. With the proper planning up front, however, it is possible complete a successful large-scale remodel within budget.
The key to any successful remodeling project is adequate planning. The more time that is spent on the front end determining the precise scope of the project, the more likely it will be that the project will complete on time and on budget. During the planning phase, there are a number of things that need to be determined. First, it is important to have a clear understanding of the client’s desires for the space, both aesthetically and functionally. Second, the level of finishes and fixtures that the client desires for the home and the cost associated with these must be determined. If the cost of the desired level of finishes and fixtures is more than the client is comfortable spending, then they need to decide if they are willing to move forward with less expensive options. Finally, if the remodel involves moving walls and reconfiguring spaces, then it must be determined if there are structural constraints that need to be addressed, which can sometimes be cost prohibitive.
Once all of these questions have been addressed, it is possible to define a clear scope for the project and for the contractor to provide a realistic bid for what the project will cost. If any of these steps is passed over, then the door is left open that the scope can get out of hand and the budget out of control. Hiring an interior designer early in the project can help streamline the planning process, reduce the chance of scope creep and costly change orders, and ensure the homeowner understands what they are getting and how much it will cost them from the beginning so that there are fewer surprises along the way.