Renovating your home can be one of the most rewarding—and overwhelming—experiences a homeowner can undertake. Whether you're refreshing a dated kitchen, updating a bathroom, or tackling a full-scale home remodel, thoughtful planning and clear execution are key to achieving a successful outcome. From setting realistic expectations to selecting the right contractor, there are many moving parts to consider.
As a seasoned Brentwood real estate expert, Janelle Waggener has helped countless clients navigate the renovation process. Whether preparing a home for sale or helping buyers see the potential in a fixer-upper, Janelle brings valuable insight into what upgrades offer the best return and how to avoid costly missteps.
In this blog post, Janelle shares her top home remodel tips to help you approach your renovation with clarity and confidence.
Start with a Clear Vision and Defined Goals
Before hiring a contractor or choosing tile samples, take the time to define your renovation goals. Ask yourself:
- What do I want to accomplish with this remodel?
- Is this renovation for resale value, personal enjoyment, or both?
- Which areas of my home are top priority?
- What’s my budget and timeline?
Having a clear vision prevents scope creep and ensures all design and financial decisions stay aligned with your main objective. For example, if your primary goal is to boost resale value, it makes sense to prioritize universally appealing updates like updated kitchens, neutral color schemes, and improved curb appeal.
Set a Realistic Budget (and Add a Buffer)
Budgeting is arguably one of the most critical components of a successful renovation. Be honest about what you can afford, then build a detailed budget that includes:
- Labor and materials
- Design and architectural services
- Permit fees
- Temporary housing or storage (if needed)
- A contingency fund for unexpected expenses (typically 10–20%)
Even with careful planning, surprises are common—hidden plumbing issues, electrical upgrades, or changes in material costs can all affect your bottom line. Including a buffer in your budget can help you avoid stress and tough compromises later on.
Prioritize Projects That Add Value
Not all renovations offer the same return on investment. If you’re remodeling with future resale in mind, Janelle recommends focusing on the following high-impact upgrades:
- Kitchen remodels (especially with modern layouts and updated appliances)
- Bathroom renovations (including new fixtures, lighting, and tilework)
- Adding or updating energy-efficient windows and doors
- Refinishing or replacing flooring
- Improving outdoor spaces (patios, decks, and landscaping)
Conversely, overly customized designs, luxury upgrades that don’t match your neighborhood, or non-essential add-ons may not yield the best return.
Hire the Right Professionals
Unless you’re an experienced contractor yourself, most home renovations will require the help of professionals. Take time to vet contractors, architects, and designers.
Look for:
- Proper licensing and insurance
- A portfolio of completed projects
- Strong references from past clients
- Transparent contracts and estimates
- A collaborative communication style
Janelle often connects clients with trusted local professionals in Brentwood who have a track record of delivering high-quality work. Having the right team in place can make the difference between a smooth project and one filled with delays and disappointments.
Plan for Daily Disruption
Living through a remodel can be challenging. Dust, noise, and limited access to certain areas of your home can disrupt your routine. If your renovation is extensive, consider temporary housing or adjusting your daily schedule to minimize frustration.
Be proactive about:
- Designating a dust-free zone for daily living
- Creating a communication plan with your contractor
- Storing valuables and fragile items
- Setting boundaries for working hours to maintain your peace and privacy
Managing expectations and being mentally prepared for a bit of chaos will help reduce stress throughout the process.
Stay Flexible Without Losing Sight of the Plan
Even the best-planned remodels often hit bumps in the road—delays in shipping, backordered materials, or an unexpected code issue. The key is to remain flexible while keeping your goals and budget in focus.
Work closely with your contractor to evaluate options when challenges arise. Maybe you can swap a delayed countertop for a similar in-stock choice or shift the timeline slightly without impacting overall costs. Flexibility is important, but don’t lose sight of your long-term goals.
Think Long-Term: Style and Functionality
A successful renovation isn’t just about what looks good today—it’s about what will still function well and look appealing years from now. Avoid trendy designs that may quickly become outdated, and focus instead on:
- Timeless materials like hardwood, stone, and neutral tile
- Quality craftsmanship that lasts
- Smart storage solutions
- Energy efficiency and sustainability
Ask yourself: Will this space meet my needs five or ten years down the line? Will it appeal to a wide range of buyers if I decide to sell? Thinking long-term helps you create spaces that grow with you and retain their value.
Document Everything
Keep thorough records of every aspect of your renovation, from initial estimates and contracts to receipts and design plans. This helps with budgeting and communication and becomes invaluable when selling your home.
Buyers often appreciate knowing what work has been done, when it was completed, and who did it. Documentation can also support your property value and help you in case of warranty or insurance claims.
Lean on a Local Real Estate Expert
Whether you’re renovating to enjoy your home or preparing to list it for sale, a local real estate professional like Janelle Waggener offers valuable insight.
She can help you:
- Understand which renovations offer the best return in the Brentwood market
- Connect you with trusted local contractors and designers
- Evaluate how your remodel could impact resale value
- Advise on the best timing for listing after renovations are complete
Janelle's market knowledge, design experience, and network of resources ensure that your renovation aligns with your goals and adds real value to your home.
Ready to Renovate with Confidence? Let’s Talk Strategy
A well-planned remodel can transform your home and boost your property’s value—but it all starts with expert guidance. If you're thinking about upgrading your Brentwood home or preparing it for the market, work with someone who understands both construction and the local real estate landscape.
Contact Janelle Waggener, your trusted Brentwood Real Estate Agent, to discuss your renovation plans and learn how to make smart, strategic updates that pay off. Visit nashvillebrentwood.com to get started today. Your dream home—or your next great sale—is just a renovation away.