Moving Pains: Managing Expectations and Our Own Remodeling Timeline

Practical advice on how to survive a renovation—that’s a topic we have revisited over the years, because managing expectations and living through a remodel can be tough and we want you to know what to expect every step of the way.

Now we find ourselves on the other end of that equation; the Cabinets & Designs team is about to plan and execute both a move to a new showroom and a remodel of that new showroom. We are very excited, but just like you we experience setbacks and frustrations. Now seems like the perfect time for us all to take a refresher course in remodeling timelines, plus a few best practices for managing expectations—and surviving until the end!

Allow Time for Permits and Inspection Issues

If you have a short moving window like we do, a permit or inspection hold-up can be extremely stressful, especially if time is of the essence. Whether you are talking about your general contractor, an inspector, or a vendor, communication is key to a successful renovation. Be clear about your expectations and needs up front, and don’t be afraid to be persistent if you are running against a deadline.

“I spent a week cajoling inspectors with the city, and we finally got our construction permit last week,” said Cabinets & Designs president Maria Frank. “They are working furiously, and we hope to be able to open by April 18^th—even if we have to set up in the parking lot!”

Discuss and Understand the Timeline

A homeowner can expect a kitchen renovation to take around 20 weeks—that’s five months! You won’t have a crew in and out of your house during that entire five month period, but it is a long process that requires juggling details, balancing budgets, and making dozens and dozens of decisions, big and small.

Our shorter-than-normal timeline for the move and renovation means that when our new showroom at The Shoppes at Memorial Villages open on April 18^th, though we may not have smoothed every rough edge; we are going to roll with the punches, because our third tip for surviving a renovation is …

Be Flexible and Understanding

Delays are common during renovations, so expect them—within reason. Discuss your remodeling timeline up front with your contractor (and architect, if you are using one), and ask him or her to identify some potential pitfalls as well as potential solutions.

Just like you, we have had to stop and take a deep breath when an inspection or permit didn’t come through on time. Be firm and persistent, but also polite, to help navigate your way through unexpected renovation delays.

We are on the move at Cabinets & Designs! Follow our transition to the new showroom at The Shoppes at Memorial Villages, and don’t forget to stay connected with Cabinets & Designs on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Houzz!