Remodeling your home is not as straightforward as you might think. While you may be able to envision the end result, getting there involves many detailed steps. As experts in home remodeling in the Indianapolis area, Home Artisans of Indiana members offer the following advice on how to prepare for a project:

UNDERSTAND YOUR GOALS: What are you trying to achieve with your project? More space? Better functionality? Cosmetic updates? Knowing your goals for your project will help you create a process to help you achieve them. HAOI Member David Decker, The Affordable Companies

COMMUNICATE YOUR PLANS: If you are going to use professionals to help you with your remodel, you will need a way to clearly express your goals. When it comes to interior design, pictures are worth a 1000 words. Your definition of blue may not be your contractor’s definition of blue. Collecting images that reflect your vision on websites like Houzz or Pinterest will help you effectively communicate with your professional partners. HAOI Member David Decker, The Affordable Companies

KNOW YOUR BUDGET: Setting and communicating your budget is the only effective way to not overspend. It may be worrisome for you to share your budget with your contractor, however it is the best way for a reputable company to help you achieve your remodeling goals. It is their job to maximize the benefits you receive within your budget.  Communicating what you are willing to spend up front will eliminate all the unnecessary back and forth that occurs when your contractor does not know the available resources. HAOI Member David Decker, The Affordable Companies

CREATE A LIGHTING PLAN: Remodeling provides an opportunity to rethink how you illuminate your space. Consider how the redesign will affect how you use the room, and where you will need different types of lighting. Within a home, layered lighting offers the best illumination. Ambient lighting can be provided through well-placed ceiling cans and chandeliers. Task lighting can be provided by undercabinet lights or well-placed pendants. Finally, decorative lighting can add ambiance and beauty. And, don’t forget about dimmers and timers! HAOI Member Tracey Leeper King, Indiana Lighting Center

ACCOUNT FOR YOUR STORAGE NEEDS: Include in the design of your newly remodeled space a plan for how you will store necessary items. If you don’t have enough room in the first place, now is a good time to make sure you have the right solutions for your stuff. Consider the other pieces and finishes in the space, like flooring, cabinetry and paint, to ensure your storage options will compliment them. Finally, think long-term with your storage decisions, so your remodel can grow with you. HAOI Member Erin Moore, California Closets

CONSIDER YOUR UTILITIES: Particularly within kitchen and bathroom remodels, where you place your plumbing and/or appliances can greatly affect the complexity of your project. Adding new appliances or lighting may require a different electrical load or configuration. Expanding the size and amenities of a shower may make moving the existing plumbing necessary. Having your remodeling plans reviewed by a professional electrician and plumber will help you understand the implications of your design. HAOI Members David Burnter, Burtner Electric and Cathy Stegemoller, Steg Plumbing

PREPARE FOR AGING-IN-PLACE: Whether you need it now or in the future, building accessibility into your remodeling plan can be easy and affordable. If you are creating a new entryway, consider making it 32” or 36” wide to accommodate a wheelchair. Installing a new custom shower? Include blocking behind the walls so a grab bar can be easily installed at later date. There are many decorative options for aging-in-place tools, making them easy to include in a stylish remodel. HAOI Member Kent McCool, Home Safe Homes

CLEAN BEFORE AND AFTER: Have the house professionally cleaned top to bottom before the project starts to make room for remodeling equipment and any displaced items you need to move. Clean your entire house again after the project is over. You may want to put your regular housecleaning on hold while you remodel, but it’s not a bad idea to maintain your main areas. HAOI Member Christina Garten, Christina’s Complete Clean

Image courtesy of HAOI Member The Affordable Companies.