I was having a conversation the other day with a friend about the pros and cons of staying or leaving during the construction phase a home renovation project.
Obviously it depends on the scope of your remodel, but the truth is if you’re planning on living at home during the entire renovation process, be prepared to make some serious life adjustments – and embrace your new (yet temporary) lifestyle!
Here are a few things to consider:
If You Stay
Pros
- See progress and attend meetings easily.
- Handle challenges quickly.
- Avoid added cost in renting.
- Minimal disruption of family routines.
- Monitor security of property.
Cons
- Putting up with noise, mess, and lack of privacy.
- Need to manage stress of disruption and disorganization.
- Project may take longer due to contractor needing to work around you.
- Health concerns.
- Quality of life temporarily compromised.
- Relationships will be challenged.
- Lack of space for family to live comfortably.
If You Go
Pros
- Easier on contractor and sub trades to get work done.
- Subcontractors can perform more efficiently without being scrutinized.
- Don’t have to put up with construction mess and disruption of house.
- Less stress, easier on relationships.
Cons
- Not on site to oversee progress and problems.
- Need to trust contractor.
- Disorientation in relocating.
- Financial burden if project takes longer than estimated.
Should you decide to stay – there is a lot you can do to survive – and thrive during this adventure—and even keep your sanity and relationships intact.
- Be flexible.
- Be patient.
- Be realistic.
- Be understanding.
Your home renovation may not be a walk in the park, but it’s very important to realize that your mental, emotional, and physical health is most important. It’s okay to keep your head in the clouds, but make sure your feet stay planted firmly on the ground.
Your general contractor and subs are more than likely managing more than one job at a time, so you may not see him or his crew exactly when you expect to. Those trades you expect to see on any given day—for whatever reason may not show up at all.
Stuff happens! Schedules change! Delays are inevitable!
That doesn’t mean you sit idly by and have them take advantage. After all, you hired the most reputable, competent, and reliable contractor out there – right? And contrary to public opinion, your extreme makeover won’t be completed in a week—like on TV!
The unfortunate reality is—if the contractor says your project will take six months, be prepared—and double it!
You may as well sit back, have a glass of wine, and try to enjoy the ride. If you’re prepared mentally, emotionally, and physically then it’s easier to survive the demo and construction phases. These are just some ideas I’ve found over the years in this business that worked for my clients and I think will make your renovation experience more manageable.
I encourage you leave questions or comments below this post, and fill out the form on the right hand side of this page to receive your free copy of my special report:
“15 Money Saving Strategies When Planning Your Home Renovation”
Article by Lori Gilder, Architectural Interior Designer, Los Angeles, Ca. © 2010 Lori Gilder. Interior Makeovers Inc.
