Taking on a remodel is challenging any time you do it. However, it can be even more taxing if you also are in the middle of relocating to the home you are renovating. Fortunately, there are measures you can take that will allow you to put your personal stamp on your new living space without breaking your back or the bank. We asked Antonette Copeland, design director for Construction Resources, to share her general tips for managing a remodeling effort, as well as her ideas for making the biggest aesthetic impact on each space in your home in the quickest and easiest way possible. Her insights will help you feel at home as soon as possible after a move.

Where should I start when approaching a remodel?

The easiest way to update or remodel the home you are moving into is to start with the areas in which you spend the most time—for example, your kitchen.

How long should I plan for a remodel to take?

Timelines vary for remodels depending on client needs, the availability of materials and the schedule of the tradespeople on your project. Remodels that don’t require major construction can take four to six weeks. Major construction that requires a contractor or permits might take six to 12 weeks depending on availability and what is needed.

How should I handle the budget of my remodel?

My top advice for handling the budget of a remodel is to have realistic goals and leave a little room for padding in case something unexpected comes up.

How do I streamline the process of selecting my materials?

I would recommend calling ahead to any supplier you want to use to see if an appointment can be made so that you can have undivided attention from the staff. Also, before you go to your appointment, know what you like or even what you don’t like so that the person helping you knows how to guide you. It’s also important to have a realistic budget in mind and have an idea of what kinds of materials you desire to have in your home based on your lifestyle.

How do I know which materials to choose?

Think about your lifestyle. For instance, if you entertain often or have an “active” kitchen, consider maintenance-free materials like quartz countertops that won’t stain. Or, if you have a pool in your backyard, consider waterproof flooring in your terrace or basement level where you might come back in the house with wet feet. If you have large pets, consider flooring that won’t scratch.

I’m moving from out of town during my remodel. How can I ensure it goes smoothly?

If you are moving from out of town, try to have all certified tradespeople, and maybe even a project manager, who can be your eyes when you cannot be there to oversee.

Make It Work

When you have several spaces in your home that you want to remodel, the process can feel overwhelming. Fortunately, you can make some impressive changes with rather simple or quick switches and swaps. Here, Antonette Copeland reveals her top recommendations for boosting the aesthetic appeal of your new home in the most expeditious ways.

The Kitchen:

Big changes can be made by changing out your countertops and backsplash. These are easy to change out and can have a huge impact on the way the space looks, giving it a fresh and updated appearance.

The Bathroom:

Changing out the light fixtures and updating the light bulbs can make a huge difference in the bathroom. You also can change out the plumbing fixtures for a quick update.

The Master Bedroom:

If you have hardwood floors in this space, add a rug to give the room some warmth, as hard floors can be cold on our feet in the mornings.

The Living Room or Family Room:

If this space has carpet, as many family rooms do, you might want to consider replacing the carpet. If you want to move away from carpet, you can give the space a real update with luxury vinyl waterproof flooring, which works well if you have pets and will not scratch or dent from the placement of heavy furniture.

The Basement:

New lights are always a great idea in a basement space. You can also add a bar with fun countertops, as well as appliances, so you can entertain. Adding porcelain tile works really well in a basement thanks to its easy clean up.

The Garage:

The best place to start is by replacing or updating your garage doors, which will give the exterior of your home an entirely new look.

The Outdoor Living Area:

There are many things you can do with this popular area. Adding porcelain countertops is a great place to begin. You can also bring in an undercounter beverage center. Of course, changing out the sink and faucet can have a big impact. And a grill and fire pit can bring outdoor entertaining to an elevated experience.

Photo Credits: (from top to bottom)
• Featured image: Designer: Vivico Interiors, Angelique Baez; Photographer: Marc Mauldin Photography
• Photo 1: Designer: Vivico Interiors, Angelique Baez; Photographer: Marc Mauldin Photography
• Photos 2 & 3: Photographer: LaRuche Photo; Architect: Keith Prossick; Builder: North Atlanta Properties, Inc (not on Insta); Interior Design Firm: Josephine Design House, Michael Berzensyi , Kerry Escobedo; Iron Windows and Doors: Womack Iron
• Photo 4: Photography: The Designery; Designer: Jane Holomon, Studio Entourage; Cabinet Design: Courtney Shearer, The Designery

Construction Resources features a family of businesses that are designed to be a one-stop resource providing builders, designers, remodelers, general contractors and homeowners with access to specialty building and design products, installation and aftermarket services. From glass, stone and marble to flooring, appliances and more, Construction Resources’ businesses have everything needed for a home remodel. For more information, visit their website.