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In order to make things go as smoothly as possible during your home renovation, design your plans with practical issues in mind so that the contractor is able to complete the work on schedule.
Materials
The materials that you plan to use for your renovation influence the cost and timeliness of the project. Where will the contractor get the materials for your home renovation? If s/he can get them at the local home improvement store, then it can save you money and time. However, if the materials are special orders from vendors in distant locations, not only can this increase your costs, but also the likelihood of having delays. Also, special ordering materials can increase the chances that something can get broken during transport, resulting in another delay and possibly added costs. Weigh the importance of a specific item to you before you have the contractor special order it.
Timeline
As you work with your contractor on your design, remember your timeline. Communicate specifically with the contractor about the expectations for job completion. Get it in writing when the renovations will be done, including dates for stages of the project. Also, have in the contract that the contractor gives you a discount if the renovation is not completed within a certain timeframe.
Designing the plans for your home renovation is a chance for you to dream and use your creativity. Just be sure to keep the limits of the contractor in mind during this phase so that you do not shoot up your costs and increase your timeline.
Step 4: Finding a contractor and architect.
Next step: Surviving your renovation.