A home renovation can be exciting – and overwhelming. Whether you’re replacing your roof, adding solar, or remodeling a kitchen, good planning is the difference between a dream upgrade and a nightmare. Here’s your comprehensive guide to planning a successful renovation in 2025.

Set your goals

Start with clarity. Do you want to:

• Increase property value?
• Improve energy efficiency?
• Modernize for aesthetics?
• Expand living space?

Clearly defining your goals will shape your priorities and budget.

Create a realistic budget

A good rule of thumb is to set your max budget and subtract 10–20% for unexpected costs. Use this rough guide:

Tip: Financing is often available. Solar and roofing may qualify for tax credits and rebates.

Build your timeline

Timelines vary, but here’s a general guide:

Delays Happen: Material shortages, weather, and permit issues can shift your schedule. Build in buffer time.

Choose the right contractor

A great contractor will:

• Be licensed and insured
• Offer detailed quotes and contracts
• Communicate clearly and consistently
• Have solid references and a strong local reputation

Watch out for: Extremely low bids (could indicate cut corners), lack of permits, vague timelines

Plan for life during renovation

Depending on the project, you may need to:

• Move out temporarily
• Set up temporary kitchens/bathrooms
• Deal with noise and dust

Bundle projects for savings

Planning to go solar and need a new roof? Bundle them together to:

• Streamline permitting
• Coordinate inspections
• Save on labor and overhead costs

Conclusion 

Home renovation doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With proper planning, a trusted contractor, and a flexible mindset, you can upgrade your home with confidence. ALA Renovations is here to guide you every step of the way—from roof to solar to full-scale renovations.