Starting a remodel can feel confusing, especially if it’s your first time planning a big home renovation. Many homeowners know the look they want but aren’t sure how to begin, what to handle first, or how much the renovation work will cost. At Toscana Remodeling, we help families across the DFW area plan their renovation journey with confidence, clear steps, and peace of mind. If you’re wondering when remodeling home where to start, this guide will bring you through each stage in a simple, practical way.
Start Planning Early: Why a Clear Plan Matters in Every Home Remodel
Every successful remodel begins with a solid plan. Before touching your kitchen, bathroom, floor, or any part of your living space, you need to understand the scope of work. A clear plan helps you stay within your budget, avoid rework, and save time during the process.
Here’s what to think about during the planning phase:
- Decide which rooms or areas need the most attention.
- Think about the layout of your kitchen or bathroom.
- See if your project needs new flooring, new windows, or a new floor plan.
- Look at your roof, fixtures, walls, and ceiling for issues.
- Look at your long-term goals and how the entire home should feel when done.
This is the stage where many homeowners say, “I want to renovate my house, but I don’t know where to begin.” The answer starts here: by taking time to create a plan you feel good about.
Set Your Budget and Timeline Before Any Renovation Work Begins
Your budget will guide the entire project. A smart budget will cover materials, labor, design, permits, and unexpected repairs. Most remodeling projects will need:
- Construction fees
- Material costs
- Design fees for an interior designer or a design-build remodeling team
- A cushion for surprise issues like plumbing or electrical repairs
The complexity of the project influences the timeline. A full home renovation can take anywhere from six months to a year to complete, while more minor upgrades move faster. Once you know your budget and timeline, you’ll know when to start your home remodeling project.
Hire the Right Professionals for a Smooth Home Renovation Process
A successful renovation project is built on hiring trustworthy experts. The first step is finding a team that understands your needs, your plans, and your budget.
Most homeowners will need:
- A contractor
- Optional: an interior designer
- Optional: an architect if you plan to change the layout, reconfigure rooms, or add new rooms
Working with a licensed team helps you follow local building codes, get the right permit, and avoid problems during construction. When you hire a professional, you also get expert guidance on planning, materials, and design that match your goals.
At this point, you’re still answering the central question: when remodeling home where to start? The answer is simple — always start by hiring the right people.
Follow a Clear Construction Order: In What Order Should You Renovate a House?
Many homeowners ask about the order of a home remodel. A smooth project follows a clear roadmap from start to finish. Below is the general order most remodelers use.
Step 1 – Demolition and Prep Work
This is where old walls, cabinets, flooring, and fixtures get removed. Proper demolition clears the way for new materials and helps avoid rework later.
Step 2 – Plumbing and Electrical Work
Before installing new finishes, crews will plumb, rewire, add new lighting, or update your HVAC system. This is the hidden work that keeps your home safe, comfortable, and up to date.
Step 3 – Walls, Insulation, and Drywall
Once the mechanical work is done, it’s time for insulation and new drywall. This step prepares your rooms for painting and the final touches.
Step 4 – New Flooring and Fixtures
Now you add new flooring, cabinets, lighting, sinks, tubs, and other pieces that bring your design to life.
Step 5 – Final Touches and Cleanup
This includes paint, trim, seals, hardware, and other details that make your home feel complete.
With this simple step-by-step guide, you’ll understand the process and know what to expect from day one.
Understand What a Whole Home Remodel Involves
A whole home remodel or full home renovation involves work in almost every room of the house. This may include:
- Changing the layout
- Creating an open-concept space
- Moving walls
- Upgrading the roof, floor, windows, and fixtures
- Updating the bathroom and kitchen
- Reworking plumbing and electrical systems
- Updating outdated rooms that no longer match your home design
A whole-house project often uses a design-build model, in which designers and builders work together. This helps reduce mistakes, keeps your project within budget, and gives you more control from start to finish.
How to Decide the Right Time to Begin Your Renovation Journey
The right time to start depends on:
- Your budget
- Material availability
- Your schedule
- Your need for temporary living changes
- The size of the renovation
If the project is large, start when the weather is mild or during a season when your home won’t be too hot or cold without a working HVAC system.
Once you determine the best timing, you can move forward with confidence and start planning your renovation around your daily life.
A Simple Home Renovation Checklist to Help You Stay Organized
Here is an easy checklist to guide you as you begin:
- Create a plan for every room
- Set a budget
- Decide on design ideas
- Hire your architect or remodeling team
- Apply for the permit
- Prepare for demolition
- Plan where you will stay during major work
- Choose flooring, fixtures, and materials
- Review the entire house layout
- Confirm final touches and details
This list keeps your home renovation process simple, organized, and easy to follow.
FAQs About Renovating a House
1. In what order should you renovate a house?
The order is: planning, demolition, plumbing and electrical, drywall, flooring, fixtures, and finishing touches.
2. What is the first thing to do when remodeling a house?
The first thing is to make a plan and set a budget. This will guide your choices and keep your renovation project organized.
3. How long does a full home remodel take?
A complete remodel can take 6 months to a year, depending on the complexity of the project and how much of the entire house you’re updating.
4. Should I hire an architect for my remodel?
You may need an architect if you plan to change the layout or add new rooms. This helps meet building codes and avoid mistakes.
5. What rooms add the most value during a home renovation?
The kitchen and bathroom often add the most value because they improve comfort and can increase your home’s resale price.
6. Do I need a permit for a home remodel?
You may need one for structural changes, plumbing, electrical work, or major updates. Your contractor will guide you.
Conclusion
Starting a remodel doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. When you know where to start, you can plan better, avoid stress, and enjoy the process of making your home feel new. Toscana Remodeling is here to guide you through every step, from design to final touches, so you can get the home you’ve always wanted with confidence.
Ready to begin your renovation journey? Toscana Remodeling offers Kitchen Remodel, Bathroom Remodel, Home Remodeling, Home Improvement, Kitchen Cabinets, and Commercial Remodeling across Lucas, Allen, Frisco, Dallas, Plano, McKinney, and Fairview.
Whether you’re planning a simple update or a full home remodel, our team is here to help you build your dream home. Drop by at 14902 Preston Rd #406, Dallas, TX 75254, or call us at (972) 406-8881 to book an appointment today. Contact us, and let’s bring your vision to reality.
Also Read:
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Affordable Home Remodeling Dallas: How Do You Transform Your Space on a Budget?