Planning a major home upgrade—whether a Kitchen Remodel, Bathroom Remodel, Home Addition, or Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU)—is exciting, but jumping in too soon can result in delays, budget surprises, and miscommunication. At Block Remodeling, homeowners often ask what they should prepare before reaching out to us.

This guide walks you through the 10 most important steps to complete before contacting a General Contractor, ensuring your remodel starts smoothly and stays on track.

1. Identify the Purpose of Your Project

Before calling a contractor, define why you’re remodeling. Ask yourself:

• Do you need more space? (Home Additions, Garage Additions or Conversions, Open and Closed Floor Plans)

• Are you upgrading outdated areas? (Kitchen Remodels, Bathroom Remodels)

• Are you preparing a rental unit? (Accessory Dwelling Units (ADU))

• Are you improving outdoor living? (Decks & Porches, Fencing & Gates)

Clear goals help contractors propose accurate solutions and timelines.

2. Gather Inspiration & Create a Vision Board

Contractors love visuals. Put together a folder or digital album that includes:

• Design styles you love

• Color palettes and textures

• Layout ideas (especially for Kitchen Remodels, ADUs, Bathroom Remodels)

• Photos of Flooring & Tilework you like

• Examples of Lighting, Appliance Installation styles, Windows & Doors, and Interior Design aesthetics

This step makes communication faster and ensures your contractor understands your taste.

3. Outline a Realistic Budget Range

A successful project starts with financial clarity. Before contacting a contractor:

• Decide on your ideal budget

• Determine your maximum “do not exceed” number

• Research average costs for projects like Decks & Porches, Garage Conversions, or Fire-Resistant Design-Build upgrades

Having a number in mind lets your contractor guide you toward the best materials, layout changes, and finishes for your price point.

4. Identify Must-Haves vs. Nice-to-Haves

When you outline priorities ahead of time, it prevents major changes later in the process.Create a two-column list:

Must-Haves

Examples:

• Updated Electrical & Lighting

• New Plumbing lines

• Improved Flooring, Tilework, or Painting

• Safer layouts or Demolition of hazardous features

• High-efficiency Windows & Doors

Nice-to-Haves

Examples:

• Built-in shelving

• Premium countertops

• Designer fixtures

• Smart home systems

Knowing what items can be flexible helps the contractor price your project more effectively.

5. Check Local Zoning, Permits & Property Restrictions

Not all projects can be executed the same way depending on:

• Setback requirements

• Lot size

• Height restrictions

• Utility access

• Rules for Accessory Dwelling Units (ADU)

• Historic property limitations

Doing preliminary research (or asking your city) prepares you for what’s feasible. Contractors will confirm everything later, but this early step prevents unrealistic expectations. Be careful not to tell local city officials you are "moving forward" with these changes. Let them know you are consulting with a licensed contractor first.

6. Evaluate the Existing Condition of Your Home

Walk through your space and note:

• Old wiring or plumbing

• Drywall cracks or moisture issues

• Uneven subfloors

• Roof condition

• Structural changes needed for Open Floor Plans

• Areas needing Fire-Resistant Design-Build improvements

Sharing this info early helps contractors assess potential hidden costs.

7. Measure Your Space & Sketch a Rough Layout

Even a simple hand-drawn layout is extremely helpful. Include:

• Wall lengths

• Door and window locations

• Ceiling height

• Appliance locations (for Kitchen Remodels and ADU kitchens)

You don’t need architectural drawings—that’s later and for your GC to prepare. But basic measurements help contractors understand scale and feasibility. Your GC will take their own measurements eventually but this step could help speed up the process.

8. Gather Product Ideas for Materials & Finishes

Before contacting a general contractor, browse options for:

• Flooring (hardwood, luxury vinyl, engineered wood, tile)

• Tilework (bathroom showers, kitchen backsplashes, laundry rooms)

• Plumbing fixtures

• Lighting styles (pendants, recessed, LED upgrades)

• Painting colors

• Windows & Doors (energy-efficient, modern black frames, sliders, bi-folds)

You don’t need final selections—but some direction helps contractors estimate costs more accurately.

9. Determine Your Desired Timeline

Ask yourself:

• When do you want the project to start?

• Do you have specific deadlines (holidays, new baby, rental needs)?

• Are you flexible if materials are backordered?

Projects like Home Additions, ADUs, or Garage Conversions may require more prep time due to permits and structural engineering.

10. Prepare Your Questions for the Contractor

Once you’ve done your homework, prepare a list of smart questions, such as:

• “How long will this project take?”

• “Will you handle permits?”

• “Do you offer design-build services?”

• "Are you licensed and insured?"

• “What does your demolition, electrical, plumbing, and installation process look like?”

• “Can you provide a detailed scope and timeline?”

• “How do you manage subcontractors for flooring, tile, painting, and appliance installation?”

Coming prepared ensures your contractor meeting is efficient and productive.

Ready to Start Your Remodel? Block Remodeling Can Help.

Once you've completed these steps, you’ll be fully prepared for a productive conversation with a contractor—and your project will move forward smoothly and confidently.

At Block Remodeling, we specialize in:

• Kitchen Remodels

• Bathroom Remodels

• Home Additions

• Accessory Dwelling Units (ADU)

• Garage Additions & Conversions

• Open and Closed Floor Plans

• Fire-Resistant Design-Build

• Flooring & Tilework

• Electrical & Lighting

• Plumbing

• Interior Design

• Painting

• Decks & Porches

• Windows & Doors

• And much more

  
  

Whether you're preparing for a minor renovation or a major transformation, our team is here to bring your vision to life—on time, on budget, and with craftsmanship you can trust.