Being decisive will help streamline your remodel

It is not uncommon to think about remodeling your home for years before taking any action.

Once you have decided to actually do something, however, it is human nature to want it NOW. The fact of the matter is there are specific phases in this process. They are sequential and none should be skipped!

These phases are programming (determining what needs to be done), schematic design (big picture issues), design development (filling in the details), construction documents, bidding and construction observation.

With each step of the process there are some things you can do to streamline your project.

For example, our client Jo Smith finished her smaller remodeling project in a relatively short eight-month period. The first thing she did was to consult an architect. For Smith, having an architect made all the difference.

"Our architect started seeing other possibilities for the house that we couldn't even imagine," she says. "She created three possibilities for the house, and we took bits and pieces that we liked from each."

This initial design phase usually takes four to six weeks. This includes meeting with your architect to discuss goals, time for the architect to design several options, meeting again to discuss options and budget, and time for you to decide which plan you want to use.

Once you determine the final design, the construction drawings must be executed, both for municipal officials to issue a building permit and for contractors to provide bids on your project. At the same time, specifications are prepared. This involves specifying the materials and finishes for the project, such as windows, countertops, plumbing fixtures, flooring, etc.

Depending on the size of the project, completing the plans and specifications averages eight to 12 weeks. Obviously, decisive clients like the Smiths move through the design and specification phase quicker than other clients.

The plans must then be submitted to the city to obtain a building permit. The time required for this step depends on the municipality. Generally speaking, allow two to eight weeks for the review process and another one to two weeks for submitting any changes they may require.