✅ 1. Get Clear on Your Vision (and Budget)

Before you hire anyone, you need two things:

A clear idea of what you want to change

A realistic budget range

Are you upgrading for resale? Building your dream kitchen? Fixing functional issues?
The clearer your priorities, the easier it will be to plan and avoid costly detours.

Pro Tip:
Budget 10–15% extra for unexpected costs (they happen).

✅ 2. Choose the Right Contractor

Not all remodeling companies are created equal. Look for:

Verified licenses and insurance

Strong portfolio of past work

Clear contracts and pricing

Google reviews and testimonials

Warning sign: If they can “start tomorrow” — be cautious. Good contractors are usually booked out for a reason.

✅ 3. Understand the Timeline

Remodels take time. Even small ones.
Ask your contractor:

How long will demo take?

Are there any permit delays?

How long for materials to arrive?

Kitchen remodels can take 4–8 weeks.
Bathroom remodels usually take 3–6 weeks.
Full home remodels may take several months depending on scope.

✅ 4. Create a Temporary Living Plan

Can you stay in the home during the remodel?

Sometimes yes.
But for kitchen or full-home remodels, it’s worth planning:

A temporary kitchen setup

A place to store furniture

Short-term housing (for intense projects)

✅ 5. Protect Your Valuables and Pets

Dust gets everywhere — no matter how careful your crew is.
Before demo day:

Remove artwork, electronics, and fragile items

Cover furniture in adjacent rooms

Make a safe plan for pets (noise and strangers can stress them out)

✅ 6. Handle Permits Early

Depending on your town and the scope of work, you may need:

Building permits

Electrical permits

Plumbing permits

HOA approval

At Evergreen Remodeling, we handle all permits for you — but always confirm who’s responsible with your contractor.

✅ 7. Order Materials in Advance

Delays often happen when materials like tile, flooring, or cabinets haven’t arrived on time.

Rule of thumb: Never begin demo until all core materials are ordered and in-hand — or at least confirmed delivery.

✅ 8. Set Boundaries with Your Contractor

Avoid miscommunication by asking:

What time will workers arrive and leave daily?

Where can they park?

How will we handle changes?

Bonus Tip: Set a dedicated time each week to review progress.

✅ 9. Expect the Unexpected

Even with the best planning, things happen:

Dry rot behind walls

Delayed shipments

Change of mind mid-project

The more flexible and prepared you are, the easier these moments will be to handle.

✅ 10. Stay Involved (But Not Overbearing)

You don’t need to micromanage — but you do need to stay informed.

Ask questions. Review the timeline.
And trust the process.