Thinking about remodeling your home — or tackling a full flip? Whether you’re refreshing a bathroom or overhauling an entire property, one thing holds true: doing things in the right order makes all the difference.
After years in real estate and hands-on involvement with renovations, I’ve learned that a well-planned remodel saves time, reduces stress, and protects your investment. Below is a clear, step-by-step timeline that works for everything from simple makeovers to full-scale remodels.
🧱 Step 1: Start with a Plan and the Right People
Before demo day, you’ll want to do some groundwork:
✔️ Get quotes from key professionals:
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General Contractor (or trade-specific ones like electricians, plumbers, and HVAC techs)
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Architect or engineer (for layout or structural changes)
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Cabinet installer, flooring expert, tiler, painter — depending on your scope
✔️ Secure any permits your project may need
✔️ Finalize your design selections (materials, layouts, finishes)
✔️ Order long-lead items like cabinets or specialty fixtures
📌 Tip: Not sure where to begin? Reach out — we have a list of trusted local contractors and vendors who deliver great results.
🧨 Step 2: Demolition — Making Room for the New
Once everything’s lined up, it’s time to tear down:
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Remove old cabinetry, flooring, walls (if applicable)
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Disconnect or cap plumbing and electrical lines
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Address any asbestos, lead, or mold issues early
This step lays the foundation for everything that comes next — literally.
🏗️ Step 3: Framing & Structural Work
Now the rebuild begins. This stage includes:
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Moving or adding walls
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Framing new spaces like bathrooms or closets
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Reinforcing beams or floors, especially in older homes
Everything here supports your new layout, so precision is key.
🔌 Step 4: Rough-In Work — Electrical, Plumbing & HVAC
Before the walls close up, your systems go in:
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Electricians run wiring for outlets, lighting, and major appliances
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Plumbers install supply and drain lines for kitchens, bathrooms, etc.
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HVAC crews install or modify ductwork and vents
🛑 Inspections often happen during this phase — everything must pass before moving forward.
🧱 Step 5: Insulation, Drywall & Wall Prep
Once systems are in and inspected, you’re ready for:
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Installing insulation in walls and ceilings
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Hanging and finishing drywall
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Smoothing or texturing walls as needed
Now, it starts looking like a real home again.
🎨 Step 6: Paint, Flooring & Cabinets — Where Style Meets Structure
This is where your vision starts coming to life:
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Paint your walls and ceilings
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Install flooring (tile, vinyl, hardwood, carpet, etc.)
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Hang cabinetry in kitchens, baths, laundry rooms
🎯 Sequence tip: Paint typically goes first, then floors, then cabinets — to protect finishes and keep things clean.
🛁 Step 7: Fixtures, Countertops & Finishing Touches
You’re in the home stretch:
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Set countertops and backsplashes
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Install faucets, sinks, toilets, and light fixtures
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Add hardware, mirrors, and other details
This step brings all the design elements together for the final look.
✅ Step 8: Final Walkthrough & Punch List
Before the tools are packed up:
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Walk the space with your contractor
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Note anything that needs touch-ups or finishing
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Make sure everything functions and looks great
After that? You’re ready to enjoy your space — or put it on the market.
🔁 What About Smaller Projects?
If you’re just updating a bathroom or kitchen, the general order still applies:
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Planning and quotes
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Demolition
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Plumbing/electrical
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Wall repair and paint
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Flooring
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Cabinets or vanities
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Fixtures and finishes
🧩 Need Local Remodeling Help?
Whether you’re updating your home to sell or renovating after you buy, we’re here to help. From contractor referralsto real estate advice, we’re your go-to resource for turning homes into dream homes.
👉 Contact us here to get started or download our free remodeling checklist.
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