Planning a Whole-Home Remodel: Where to Start

The Big Picture

Whole-home remodels are complex projects. Success depends on proper sequencing, realistic budgeting, and choosing the right team.

Should You Remodel or Move?

Before committing, consider:
- Cost of remodel vs. comparable home purchase
- Time you'll be displaced
- Hidden issues older homes may have
- Neighborhood value ceiling
- Personal attachment to current home

Planning Phase

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Step 1: Prioritize Rooms
Rank by importance and ROI:
1. Kitchen (highest ROI)
2. Master bathroom
3. Other bathrooms
4. Living areas
5. Bedrooms
6. Basement

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Step 2: Define Scope Per Room
For each area, decide:
- Full gut vs. refresh
- Layout changes (most expensive)
- Fixture upgrades
- Finish selections

Step 3: Create a Realistic Budget

For Central Kentucky whole-home remodels:
- Refresh: $30-60 per sq ft
- Mid-range: $60-100 per sq ft
- High-end: $100-200+ per sq ft

Add 15-20% contingency for older homes.

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Step 4: Plan the Sequence

Typical order:
1. Demolition and structural
2. Rough plumbing and electrical
3. HVAC modifications
4. Insulation and drywall
5. Flooring (except finished wood)
6. Cabinets and millwork
7. Trim and doors
8. Paint
9. Finish flooring
10. Fixtures and hardware

Living Arrangements

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Option 1: Live Through It
- Most affordable
- Most disruptive
- Works for phased projects

Option 2: Partial Displacement
- Stay in unaffected areas
- Move between zones as work progresses
- Moderate disruption

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Option 3: Move Out
- Fastest completion
- Additional rental cost
- Least stressful

Timeline Expectations

For a 2,000 sq ft home:
- Refresh: 2-4 months
- Mid-range remodel: 4-6 months
- Gut renovation: 6-12 months

Factors that extend timelines:
- Permit delays
- Material lead times
- Weather (for exterior work)
- Scope changes

Selecting Your Team

Options:
- General contractor: Manages everything
- Design-build firm: Design + construction
- Architect + GC: For complex projects

Questions to ask:
- Can I see similar completed projects?
- How do you handle change orders?
- What's your communication process?
- Who will be on site daily?

Start planning your project - we'll help you define scope, sequence, and budget.