5 Home Remodel Tips for a Successful Renovation

Whether you're updating a single room or taking on a full-scale renovation, remodeling your home is a big undertaking. Setting a budget, hiring contractors, and deciding which upgrades will make a difference requires planning and patience. The good news? With a clear strategy and the right guidance, a remodel can transform your home in ways that are both functional and rewarding. If you’re looking for smart, practical remodeling tips that help you stay on track and avoid common setbacks, this guide is a solid place to start.

Every successful remodel begins long before the first hammer swing. It starts with understanding what you want to achieve and mapping out the specifics. Are you trying to increase storage, improve flow, or modernize outdated finishes? Be honest about your goals, and write them down so you can refer back as the project moves forward.

A common mistake is jumping in based solely on inspiration photos or trends. While those are great for reference, they won’t guide layout decisions, permit requirements, or structural limitations. Talk to a contractor, designer, or architect early in the process to help align your ideas with what’s possible.

And if you're working within a budget (as most people are), list your “must-haves” and “nice-to-haves” to help prioritize spending when compromises are needed. A realistic plan keeps you from overcommitting and ensures your end result fits your lifestyle, not just your Pinterest board.

No matter how well you prepare, remodeling projects can introduce surprises—behind walls, beneath floors, or in materials that become delayed or discontinued. That’s why one of the most important remodeling tips is to set aside a contingency fund, typically about 10–20% of your total budget, for unplanned expenses.

Also, remember to account for costs beyond construction. Design fees, permits, temporary accommodations (if you need to leave your home during major phases), and material delivery charges can all add up. Getting a detailed quote from your contractor, including line items for labor and materials, will give you a more accurate idea of what to expect.

If you're choosing between a few large updates, consider how each improvement affects usability and resale value. Kitchen and bathroom remodels often bring the best return, especially if layouts remain the same but finishes and appliances are upgraded. Meanwhile, cosmetic updates like paint, flooring, and lighting can go a long way for relatively low cost.

Your contractor, designer, and any specialists you hire will shape both the experience and the final result of your renovation. Look for professionals with experience in the type of work you’re doing, and get references from people who’ve completed similar projects.

Local contractors are often your best bet because they understand permitting requirements, regional materials, and climate-related construction details. Don’t rely solely on online reviews; ask for portfolios, request site visits if possible, and clarify communication expectations early on. Will you be updated weekly? The smoother your working relationship, the fewer hiccups you'll face during the build.

A good contractor will point out potential issues, offer alternate solutions, and keep the timeline moving. They’re your partner in making your plans a reality.

Every remodel has a timeline, but very few stick to it exactly. Between unexpected delays, backordered materials, or last-minute design changes, things often take longer than expected. Knowing this ahead of time helps you plan better and stress less.

Work with your contractor to create a project schedule that includes start and finish dates for each phase. If you’re renovating more than one space, ask whether work will be done simultaneously or in sequence. This impacts how long your home is disrupted and how you'll need to adjust your daily routines.

Also, think about seasonal timing. For example, planning an exterior renovation in winter might introduce weather-related delays, while remodeling a kitchen right before the holidays may leave you without a place to cook during key moments. Building in buffer time ensures you're not scrambling or disappointed if a few things take longer than expected.

While it’s tempting to follow the latest design trends, your remodel should ultimately reflect how you live. That means choosing materials, finishes, and layouts that support your day-to-day routines, whether it’s a built-in bench near the entryway for school bags or a laundry room that doubles as a mudroom.

This principle applies to finishes, too. Durable materials like quartz countertops, ceramic tile flooring, and high-quality cabinetry often cost more upfront but hold up better over time. That can save you money and hassle down the road, especially in high-traffic areas like kitchens, bathrooms, and entryways.

If resale is in your future, stay mindful of what future buyers may want—but don’t let that override your current needs. Neutral tones, timeless tile choices, and smart lighting upgrades tend to appeal to everyone and can help your home feel fresh and cohesive.

Even if you’re not overhauling your entire house, don’t underestimate the power of small changes. Swapping outdated hardware, adding new light fixtures, or installing soft-close drawers can make your home feel more functional and up-to-date. These finishing touches add polish and can often be completed with minimal disruption.

Navigating a renovation requires insight, planning, and a clear understanding of how design decisions align with real estate value. That’s where having the right professional makes all the difference.

Casselyn Tertell brings a practical, hands-on approach to helping clients make strategic updates that work for today and hold their value for tomorrow. Whether you’re remodeling to stay or preparing to sell, Casselyn can help you understand how local trends and smart design choices intersect. Reach out today to learn how your renovation project can be shaped with intention, guided by expert advice, and backed by a deep understanding of Burr Ridge real estate.