Your Home Renovation Checklist – Planning a Remodel That Stays on Budget
Dreaming of a remodel but afraid of the cost? Start here.
Planning a home renovation can be exciting — but without the right approach, it can also become overwhelming and expensive. Whether you're remodeling your kitchen, updating a bathroom, or giving your entire home a fresh new look, having a clear renovation checklist is essential for staying organized and on budget.
At Rodney Horton Drywall Specialties Inc., we’ve helped hundreds of homeowners in Austin, AR and surrounding areas successfully renovate their homes — without breaking the bank. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the exact steps to take before, during, and after your remodel to ensure a smooth process and lasting results.
Step 1: Define Your Goals
Before you pick up a hammer or call a contractor, ask yourself:
- What are the main reasons for this renovation?
- Are you improving function, fixing damage, or updating style?
- Are you planning to sell soon or stay long-term?
- Which rooms or areas are your top priority?
Defining your “why” will help guide every decision you make — from materials to timelines.
Step 2: Set a Realistic Budget
One of the biggest renovation mistakes is underestimating costs. Start by creating a budget range based on your goals and the size of the project.
Be sure to include:
- Labor and contractor fees
- Materials and product costs
- Permits or inspection fees (if applicable)
- Design consultations
- A 10–20% contingency fund for unexpected issues
Pro Tip: Don’t blow your whole budget on cosmetic upgrades — make sure structural issues and repairs are addressed first.
Step 3: Get Inspired and Make a Plan
Gather ideas using:
- Pinterest boards
- Home design magazines
- Model homes
- Product showrooms
Once you’ve narrowed down your look and feel, start planning layout changes, paint colors, flooring options, lighting upgrades, and more.
Write down:
- Must-haves
- Nice-to-haves
- Deal-breakers
This helps you prioritize if you need to scale the project back later.
Step 4: Hire the Right Contractor
Your choice of contractor can make or break your remodel — literally.
Here’s what to look for:
- Licensed and insured professionals
- Local experience and references
- Transparent pricing and estimates
- A clear timeline and scope of work
- Communication and responsiveness
At Rodney Horton Drywall Specialties Inc., we’re known for clear communication, honest pricing, and hands-on management. You’ll always deal with real people — and we never leave a job half-finished.
Step 5: Schedule a Walkthrough & Get Estimates
We recommend getting at least one detailed, written estimate from a trusted professional.
What a good estimate should include:
- Labor and material costs
- Work scope and exclusions
- Estimated start and finish dates
- Payment schedule
- Warranty or guarantee info
Avoid vague or one-line bids. You want transparency upfront to avoid surprises later.
Step 6: Prepare Your Home
Remodeling is noisy, dusty, and disruptive — even for smaller projects. Planning ahead helps reduce stress.
Be sure to:
- Remove furniture and valuables from work areas
- Set up dust barriers (we can help with this)
- Create a temporary kitchen or bathroom if needed
- Protect pets and kids from the job site
- Inform neighbors of major exterior work (if applicable)
Our team always respects your home — we clean up after ourselves, minimize dust, and protect flooring and furniture throughout the project.
Step 7: Watch Your Timeline
Even the most well-planned remodels can hit delays. Material shortages, weather, and surprise repairs are all possible.
To stay on track:
- Approve material selections early
- Don’t change your mind mid-project if possible
- Communicate regularly with your contractor
- Be flexible with finish dates, but firm on expectations
We keep our clients updated every step of the way, so you're never in the dark.
Step 8: Expect (and Budget For) Surprises
Especially in older homes, once walls come down, hidden issues can arise:
- Old wiring
- Hidden mold or moisture
- Structural problems
- Pest damage
This is where that 10–20% contingency fund becomes critical. We always alert you to any issues immediately and work together to find the best solution.
Step 9: Final Walkthrough and Punch List
Once the work is done, your contractor should walk you through the project and address any outstanding items.
This includes:
- Inspecting finishes and paint touch-ups
- Testing outlets, switches, and fixtures
- Verifying that work areas are cleaned and safe
- Reviewing warranty or care instructions
At Rodney Horton Drywall, we don’t call it “done” until you’re 100% satisfied.
Step 10: Enjoy Your New Space — and Maintain It
Congrats — you’ve just transformed your home! The final step is taking care of your investment.
Keep your remodel looking great by:
- Wiping down new surfaces regularly
- Using proper cleaning products
- Monitoring for signs of moisture or damage
- Keeping up with seasonal maintenance
If any issues come up, we’re just a phone call away.
FAQs – Remodeling with Rodney Horton Drywall Specialties Inc.
Q: Do you offer full-service remodeling?
Yes — we handle drywall, flooring, painting, popcorn ceiling removal, general handyman work, and more. We also coordinate with plumbers, electricians, and HVAC pros when needed.
Q: Can you help me choose materials?
Absolutely. We provide guidance on paint colors, flooring, trim, and layout choices based on your home, budget, and style.
Q: What’s your service area?
We serve Austin, Cabot, Ward, Beebe, Jacksonville, and other nearby Arkansas communities.
Q: Are estimates really free?
Yes — our estimates are 100% free, with no obligation or pressure.
Plan Smarter. Build Better. Call Us First.
If you’re planning a renovation or remodel in the Austin, AR area, start with Rodney Horton Drywall Specialties Inc. We’ll help you build a clear plan, stay on budget, and love your results.
Call Now: (501) 941-8442
Email: imud4u@yahoo.com
Request a Free Estimate: austindrywallservices.com
