Thinking About a Whole Home Renovation? Here’s What You Need to Know

A whole home renovation is a major undertaking—but it’s also an exciting opportunity to completely transform your living space. Whether you’re updating an older home, redesigning your layout, or making your space more energy-efficient, the right renovation plan can turn your dream home into a reality.

But where do you start? If you’re feeling overwhelmed, don’t worry—I’ve got you covered. In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about whole home renovations, from setting a budget to hiring a renovation contractor and selecting the best renovation materials.

Let’s dive in!

1. Why Choose a Whole Home Renovation?

You might be wondering, Why not renovate one room at a time? While smaller projects work for some homeowners, there are big advantages to renovating your entire home at once:

• Cohesive Design: Instead of mismatched styles, a whole home renovation ensures a seamless, unified look.
• Long-Term Savings: Doing everything at once reduces labor costs compared to multiple smaller projects.
• Increased Property Value: A fully updated home is more attractive to buyers if you ever decide to sell.
• Improved Functionality: A full remodel allows you to reconfigure your layout for better flow and efficiency.

Whether you’re restoring an older home, upgrading an outdated space, or making your home more energy-efficient, a whole home renovation adds value and improves your quality of life.

2. Setting a Realistic Budget

One of the most critical aspects of a successful renovation is having a clear and realistic budget. Here’s how to create one:

How Much Does a Whole Home Renovation Cost?

Costs vary based on the size of your home, the extent of the renovation, and the materials you choose. Here’s a rough estimate:

• Cosmetic Updates (Paint, Flooring, Fixtures): $20,000 - $50,000
• Moderate Renovation (Kitchen, Bathrooms, Structural Work): $50,000 - $150,000
• Luxury Remodel (High-End Finishes, Custom Features): $150,000 - $300,000+

Budgeting Tips for a Smooth Renovation

✔ Prioritize Key Areas: Focus on high-impact spaces like kitchens and bathrooms first.
✔ Plan for Hidden Costs: Set aside at least 10-20% of your budget for unexpected expenses.
✔ Compare Quotes: Get estimates from multiple renovation contractors to ensure you’re getting the best deal.
✔ Consider Renovation Financing: Home equity loans, renovation loans, and refinancing can help fund your project.

Pro Tip: Use a renovation budget calculator to estimate costs and track expenses throughout your project.

Designing Your Dream Home

Once your budget is in place, it’s time to focus on renovation design and layout planning.

Key Design Considerations

✔ Functionality First: Think about how you use each space. A beautiful design is meaningless if it doesn’t fit your lifestyle.
✔ Future-Proofing: If you plan to stay in your home long-term, consider aging-in-place renovations, like wider doorways and smart home technology.
✔ Eco-Friendly Upgrades: Energy-efficient windows, LED lighting, and sustainable materials can save money and help the environment.
✔ Cohesive Style: Decide on a renovation style—modern, farmhouse, industrial, or classic—and carry that theme throughout the home.

Smart Home Upgrades to Consider

Want a tech-savvy home? Here are some of the best smart features to include in your renovation:

• Smart Thermostats (like Nest or Ecobee) to save energy.
• Wi-Fi-Enabled Appliances for convenience.
• Automated Lighting and Blinds to enhance ambiance and security.
• Integrated Home Security Systems for added peace of mind.

A smart renovation doesn’t just make life easier—it also boosts your home’s resale value!

4. Choosing the Right Renovation Materials

Your material choices impact your home’s durability, maintenance, and aesthetic. Here’s what to consider:

Flooring

• Hardwood – Timeless, durable, and adds value.
• Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) – Budget-friendly and water-resistant.
• Tile – Ideal for bathrooms and kitchens.

Countertops

• Quartz – Low-maintenance and stylish.
• Granite – Natural and durable.
• Butcher Block – Warm, rustic look.

Paint & Finishes

• Neutral Colors – Timeless and versatile.
• Low-VOC Paint – Better for indoor air quality.
• Matte vs. Glossy – Matte is modern, while glossy is easy to clean.

Pro Tip: When choosing renovation materials, balance cost, durability, and style to make the best investment.

5. Hiring the Right Renovation Contractor

A whole home renovation is not a DIY job. Finding the right renovation expert is crucial to a smooth process.

Questions to Ask Before Hiring

✔ Are you licensed and insured? (Always confirm this!)
✔ Can you provide references from past renovations?
✔ What is your estimated timeline for completion?
✔ How do you handle unexpected changes or delays?
✔ Do you offer warranties on your work?

Hiring a reliable renovation company ensures that your project stays on track, on budget, and meets your expectations.

6. Whole Home Renovation Timeline: What to Expect

Renovating an entire home is a big commitment, so it’s important to have a realistic timeline. Here’s a general breakdown:

1. Planning & Permits – 1-3 months
2. Design & Material Selection – 1-2 months
3. Demolition & Structural Work – 1-2 months
4. Electrical, Plumbing, HVAC Updates – 1 month
5. Interior Finishes (Floors, Cabinets, Paint) – 2-3 months
6. Final Touches & Inspections – 1 month

Total estimated time: 6-12 months, depending on complexity.

Conclusion: Let’s Build Your Dream Home!

A whole home renovation is one of the biggest investments you’ll ever make—but when done right, it completely transforms your space and enhances your lifestyle.

By following the right renovation planning process, setting a realistic budget, choosing quality materials, and working with an experienced renovation contractor, you can achieve stunning results.

If you’re ready to start your renovation journey, MAS Home Improvement is here to help. Our team specializes in full-scale home renovations, from design to execution, serving Bethlehem, PA, and the Lehigh Valley.

📞 Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward your dream home!