Remodeling your entire house is a big undertaking—and an exciting one. Whether you’re revamping an older home or transforming a property to suit your lifestyle, a whole-house remodel can breathe new life into your space. But before the demolition begins, there’s one major question to answer: Where do you start?
A full home remodel involves many moving parts—planning, budgeting, designing, hiring contractors, securing permits, and managing timelines. Knowing the right starting point can make the process less overwhelming and far more efficient.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through where and how to begin your whole-house remodeling project, so you can make smart decisions every step of the way.
Before you touch a single wall or fixture, get crystal clear about why you're remodeling.
Your answers will shape every decision moving forward—from your budget to design choices to the scope of work. Start by creating a list of must-haves, nice-to-haves, and long-term goals.
For example, if your family is expanding, an open-concept layout and more bedrooms may be essential. If resale is on your radar, focus on upgrades that increase market value, like kitchen and bathroom renovations.
Next, walk through your home and take stock of what’s working—and what’s not. Pay attention to:
Hiring a home inspector or structural engineer is a smart move, especially for older homes. They can identify potential issues early on, helping you avoid costly surprises mid-project.
If your home is located in an area like Millbrae, where older houses are common, an assessment is even more important. It ensures that your plans are grounded in what’s feasible—and safe—for the structure.
A whole-house remodel is a major investment, and budgeting wisely will keep you in control. Your budget should cover:
Keep in mind that prices can vary depending on location, square footage, and the complexity of your plans. For home remodeling in Millbrae, you may also need to factor in local permitting requirements and contractor availability, which can affect both cost and timeline.
Getting quotes from multiple professionals early in the process will give you a better sense of your financial expectations.
If your budget or timeline requires phasing the remodel, it’s smart to start with rooms that have the biggest impact. Typically, these include:
For example, starting with kitchen remodeling in Millbrae can significantly boost your home’s value and improve day-to-day convenience. A modern, functional kitchen is often a top priority for both homeowners and potential buyers.
Once you’ve defined your goals, assessed the home, and set your budget, it’s time to map out a master plan. This includes:
Working with an architect or design-build firm can help streamline this process. They’ll provide expert insight into what’s possible—and what’s practical—based on your budget and the home’s structure.
Your project timeline might include demolition, rough-ins (electrical/plumbing), framing, drywall, painting, flooring, cabinetry, and final touches. Always build in extra time for delays, inspections, or unexpected repairs.
Most major renovations require building permits—especially if you’re making structural changes, adding square footage, or upgrading plumbing and electrical systems.
Each city has its own requirements, so be sure to check with your local building department. In cities like Millbrae, where permitting and zoning regulations are tightly enforced, this step is essential.
Not getting the proper permits can result in fines, delays, or even the need to undo completed work. Your contractor or architect should guide you through this part of the process.
A whole-house remodel is not a DIY job. You’ll need a team of experienced professionals, including:
When choosing your team, look for licensed, insured professionals with experience in whole-home renovations. Local expertise matters—especially for projects like bathroom remodeling in Millbrae, where understanding local codes and plumbing infrastructure can save time and money.
Ask for references, review portfolios, and don’t be afraid to ask questions about timelines, communication, and change order policies.
Remodeling an entire house can take several months—and living in a construction zone isn’t easy. Consider your lifestyle, work schedule, and tolerance for dust and noise.
Options include:
Your contractor can help plan the remodel in phases to minimize disruption, but if you're remodeling key areas like bathrooms and kitchens simultaneously, temporary relocation may be the most practical choice.
Even the best-planned projects come with surprises—especially in older homes. Be prepared for issues like:
This is where your contingency budget comes in. Building in flexibility, both financially and emotionally, will help you navigate unexpected bumps in the road with less stress.
After months of planning, hammering, and hard decisions, your remodeled home will finally take shape—and the payoff is huge. You’ll have a space that reflects your lifestyle, meets your needs, and adds long-term value to your property.
Whether it’s a fresh new layout, a dream kitchen, or a spa-like bathroom, the satisfaction of living in a home designed around you is worth every bit of the effort.
Starting a whole-house remodel can feel overwhelming, but breaking it down into clear, manageable steps can make the process smoother and more enjoyable. Begin with your goals, budget wisely, and build a trusted team to help you bring your vision to life.
From kitchen remodeling in Millbrae to full-scale home remodeling in Millbrae, having a roadmap from the start ensures your remodel stays on track—both in terms of cost and quality. And when it’s time for bathroom remodeling in Millbrae, working with professionals who understand local nuances makes all the difference.
Remodeling your entire home is a big step—but when done right, it can completely transform the way you live, work, and relax every day.