What to Know Before Starting Your Home Remodeling Project

Remodeling your home comes with countless benefits. Beyond the obvious boost to property value, a remodel can transform how you enjoy and use your space every day. From expanding living areas to refreshing outdated finishes, the possibilities are nearly endless. But to make the process rewarding, and not overwhelming, you need the right plan and the right partner to guide you through each step.

Why Willet Home Design Studio is Your Ideal Remodeling Partner

Remodeling is a major investment, and it should be handled with care, precision, and expertise. That’s what we bring to every project at Willet Home Design Studio. With more than 30 years of experience, we’ve become a trusted name in high-end design-build remodeling throughout Lincoln. Our reputation rests on:

• Top-quality craftsmanship that holds up for years to come
• Exceptional customer service rooted in communication and trust
• A proven design-build process that turns your vision into reality

Our process is designed to keep things smooth and stress-free. We collaborate with you in the design phase using detailed 3D renderings, so you can visualize every element before construction starts. Once the plan is finalized, we take extra care to protect your home, use only quality materials, and keep the jobsite clean from start to finish.

Define Your Vision and Goals

The first step in any remodel is knowing what you want to achieve. Think about how your home could better support your family’s lifestyle:

• Do you gather most often in the kitchen? Consider an expanded layout, an island, or improved lighting.
• Is your flooring struggling with heavy traffic? Hardwood or luxury vinyl plank offers both style and durability.
• Do you need more functional storage? Custom cabinetry or built-ins can maximize every inch of space.

To refine your vision, start a mood board with photos from Pinterest, Instagram, or home design magazines. Collect images of layouts, finishes, and design details you love. Bringing these to your consultation helps our designers tailor recommendations to your taste and lifestyle.

Establish a Realistic Budget and Financing Plan

Every remodel has the potential for surprise costs. A bathroom update might uncover hidden plumbing issues, or opening up walls could reveal outdated wiring. To prepare, you’ll want to:

• Include all obvious expenses like labor, permits, and materials
• Plan for temporary needs, such as dining out during a kitchen remodel or storage rentals
• Add a 10–15% cushion for unexpected expenses
• Consider a financing plan upfront to keep the project on track

Setting your budget early, and building in flexibility, helps prevent stress and delays later on.

The Importance of Professional Design and Planning

Professional guidance is the key to bringing your vision to life while avoiding costly missteps. Working with seasoned experts ensures:

• Creative solutions that balance function, budget, and aesthetics
• Efficient scheduling that minimizes disruption to your daily routine
• Access to skilled labor and materials through a trusted professional network
• Peace of mind knowing the project is insured and backed by experience

From coordinating trades to sourcing materials on tight timelines, a professional design-build team keeps your remodel running smoothly from start to finish.

Choosing the Right Contractor (and Why It Matters)

The contractor you choose can make or break your remodel. To find the right fit:

• Start with recommendations from friends, family, or neighbors
• Check online reviews and ratings on BBB, Google, or Yelp
• Verify licenses, certifications, and insurance during your consultation
• Ask about their process, timeline, and communication style
• Review their past work and ask for references

When reviewing contracts, pay close attention to the scope of work, payment schedule, and materials list. Many homeowners prefer staged payments, deposit, progress payments tied to milestones, and a final payment upon completion, for extra accountability.

Understanding Permits and Regulations

Before walls come down or plumbing gets rerouted, it’s crucial to confirm requirements with your city. Building codes, zoning laws, and permits vary widely by location. Missing this step can mean fines or forced revisions. If you live in an HOA community, remember they may have their own rules for exterior changes, noise, or material types. Securing approvals early avoids expensive headaches down the line.

Preparing for and Living Through the Remodel

Even the smoothest remodel will disrupt your daily routine, but a little preparation goes a long way:

• Designate a temporary living or work space during construction
• Set up safety barriers or make arrangements for children and pets
• Protect or relocate valuables and fragile items
• Stay in close communication with your contractor about progress and scheduling

Taking these steps helps you maintain normalcy and peace of mind while the work is underway.

Willet Home Design Studio’s Comprehensive Remodeling Consultation

Every project we take on begins with a no-obligation, in-home consultation. Here’s what you can expect:

• A full discussion of your goals, style, and budget
• 3D models to visualize layouts and design ideas
• Help choosing products and finishes with real samples
• A detailed scope-of-work proposal with a fixed-price construction contract

Once approved, we move into construction with every detail mapped out, floor plans, electrical layouts, elevations, and more. You’ll know exactly what to expect, when to expect it, and how much it will cost.

Start Your Lincoln, NE Remodel with Confidence

Home renovations are exciting, but success depends on planning and execution. With Willet Home Design Studio, you get both. Let our design-build team turn your vision into reality with craftsmanship, care, and a process designed around you.

Call Willet Home Design Studio today to start your remodeling project in Lincoln.