Planning a Home Renovation This Winter? Read This First.

Because the best projects start with strategy, not on demo day.

Thinking about remodeling your kitchen, bathroom, or basement this winter? You’re not alone—many Minnesota homeowners in Lakeville, Apple Valley, and the Twin Cities suburbs use the closing of beach season to plan indoor projects. But what too many people discover on demo day is that without a clear plan, budgets blow up, timelines stretch out, and stress takes over.

Before you call a contractor, let’s talk about how to set your renovation up for success from Day 1. With over a decade in corporate sales and account management, I know the power of advanced planning, clear communication, and expert guidance when it comes to big projects. And yes—that applies to your home renovation just as much as it did to multimillion-dollar books of business.

1. Strategy Comes Before Inspiration

Don’t dive in with just a Pinterest board. Instead:

• Define your “why”: Are you renovating for resale value, lifestyle upgrades, or aging in place?

• Outline your must-haves vs. nice-to-haves: A streamlined list prevents scope creep, and keeps your budget from growing and growing.

• Set a realistic budget range: and then actor in a 10–20% contingency for the unexpected.

Corporate parallel: In sales, we always had a project kickoff to align on goals, deliverables, and budgets—your renovation deserves the same.

2. Common Pitfalls & How to Avoid Them

• Mistake: Waiting until demo day to bring in a designer.
  Fix: Engage a designer early to finalize layouts, specs, and permitting paperwork.

• Mistake: Underestimating material lead times.
  Fix: Order tile, cabinetry, and fixtures months in advance—especially in winter when deliveries can lag.

• Mistake: Ignoring local building codes and HOA requirements.
  Fix: Confirm permits, setback rules, and covenants before finalizing your plan.2

3. Why a Designer ≠ Contractor

Contractors build; designers plan. Here’s what I bring to the table:

• Holistic space planning: I optimize layouts for flow, function, and future furniture placement.

• Finish & fixture selection: I source materials that suit your style, lifestyle, and budget—no endless showroom runs.

• Timeline management: I coordinate with your contractor, suppliers, and vendors to keep the project on schedule.

• Communication protocols: Regular check-ins, progress photos, and decision-making guides so you’re never left in the dark.

4. The Renovation Roadmap

Phase 1: Discovery & Design
– Kickoff meeting to confirm scope, timeline, and budget
– Preliminary floorplans and moodboards for your review

Phase 2: Specs & Procurement
– Detailed drawings, finish sheets, and schedule
– Ordering and tracking of all materials before demo

Phase 3: Construction & Styling
– Site visits to align trades with design intent
– Final styling touches: paint accents, hardware installs, décor placement

Phase 4: Wrap-Up & Follow-Through
– Punch-list walk-through
– Care instructions, vendor contacts, and project documentation

5. Next Steps for a Smooth Winter Renovation

📥 Freebie Download: “10 Questions to Ask Before You Renovate”
Use this worksheet to kickstart your planning and uncover potential roadblocks before they happen.

📅 Ready to plan your renovation like a pro?
Complete our online inquiry form, and let’s make your winter project your best one yet.