Let’s be honest – when it comes to beautiful spaces, there are often many “not so pretty” stories that go along with how they came to be. Even though there are many things that are out of your control in a remodeling project, there are still steps you can take to improve your sanity during the process. Let’s take a closer look at the factors that contribute to the stress of remodeling and explore tips that can help you minimize its negative impacts on your life. Many of these factors occur simultaneously which only compounds the stress level, so be sure to consider all categories.

Stress #1: Remodeling is a significant financial investment. Research has shown that even without remodeling finances are already a topic that can cause frequent stress in a household. Most major home renovations cost well into the five-figure range and these projects can take existing financial stress to a whole new level. There are a few reasons for this. First, unlike buying a car, you won’t fully know how your “major purchase” (a.k.a. your newly remodeled space) is going to turn out for weeks or even months. Next, handing over a large check to a contractor can feel scary. We have all heard stories from friends and families who had bad experiences, and we worry it can happen to us.

What you can do about it: Find a design/build firm or contractor plus designer that you feel good about, who has dedicated project managers, and who can show you what kind of project documents they can produce and management and visualization tools they will use in your project. When you work with professionals who can produce renderings and other computer-based visual projections of your project outcome, it can significantly reduce the stress of wondering how your big investment will turn out. Working with only a contractor (without a designer) will put most of the decision-making on the homeowner and won’t provide you with these helpful visuals, which means navigating hundreds of decision points on your own and without the latest visualization tools. I always recommend interviewing at least three general contractors for a project as well as asking for and checking out their references by speaking with previous clients.

Stress #2: Remodeling is full of unexpected costs. Unlike building a new home, remodeling an existing home is full of twists and turns that often translates into extra costs due to circumstances that are only discovered once walls are opened up. Even in situations where all parties are true professionals and did all possible due diligence in the planning phase, I have still seen the unexpected crop up.

What you can do about it: First, have a mindset to expect the unexpected. When unforeseen situations arise, remind yourself that it is typical in a home remodel. Next, when determining your budget for a remodeling project, set aside at least an additional 20-25% of the project budget in cash reserves to cover the unexpected. This may seem like a large amount but establishing this level of a financial buffer will ease stress. Additionally, many unexpected costs that come up during a remodel are due to change orders resulting from the homeowner deciding too far into the process that they would prefer a different color, finish or material. This can be minimized by working with a designer or a design/build firm in the pre-construction phase and using 3D design to create projections of your remodeled space. Then, once you’ve signed off on a design plan, try to stop shopping or checking out other looks in magazines or online. Trust that you’ve made great selections and try to not overthink it.

Stress #3: Remodeling creates noise, mess and routine disruption. It’s difficult living in a home while it’s being remodeled. Even if the work is confined to one room, the constant pounding and flow of workers in and out of your space can feel like a lot. Add to that dust, debris and disruption to your daily routine (which is especially challenging with kids at home), and you can easily become overwhelmed.

What you can do about it: Many of the solutions to this problem involve being away from your home. Ideally, move out during major remodels such as a kitchen or multiple bathrooms. If you are having hardwood floors refinished, it will be a requirement. My number one recommendation is to explore renting a short-term rental nearby. Our area has many such options available, and not just Airbnb. There are many corporate housing firms that offer monthly rentals which can be extended as needed if your project requires additional time. Some families stay with grandparents or other relatives, which may suffice for a short-term project. If moving out isn’t an option, consider breaking your project into smaller, more manageable chunks. You can also align a family vacation with your project’s noisiest/messiest phase, but I generally recommend you appoint someone local to check in at the end of each day to make sure the work is staying on track.

Stress #4: Remodeling generally takes much longer than anticipated. Much like unexpected costs, unexpected timelines are the norm when it comes to remodeling. This has become even more of an issue since the start of the pandemic as many categories such as appliances, furniture and even lighting are experiencing significant delays. In our area, getting on the schedule of a quality contractor is another area that requires patience and advanced planning.

What you can do about it: Set realistic expectations and give yourself ample time for planning, research, and ordering of materials. While it’s a nice idea to want your new kitchen to be finished before Christmas, it’s best to have an open mind when it comes to a timeline. And remember, working with a true professional is worth waiting for.

In the end, despite the difficulties, challenges and cost, remodeling can be well worth it. Consider the steps you can take to reduce your stress in the process to make it an even better experience.