The Rewards of Remodeling

Amy and Chris Davis, clients of Stewart’s, had remodeled their home in stages, and the kitchen was part of the final phase. Amy arranged a mock-kitchen in the bar area of her family room, complete with a mini-fridge, electric skillet and toaster. For eight months, the couple and their three children found new ways to establish a sense of normalcy. “We would go up to the game room, put down a picnic blanket,” Amy says. “We still had our family time.”

Communication is necessary, both with your loved ones and with your team. While you have people working in your house, treat them with respect and create an atmosphere of trust. “Be honest about your weaknesses and strengths to analyze your role in this [emotional] process. Try to manage your frustrations, and give people more slack during this time,” Serra says. “Be positive. Renovating can be fun and really creative, or it can be miserable. Much of it is how the consumer approaches the experience.”

Remodeling is not for the faint of heart. But with careful planning, good communication and reasonable expectations, it can be a rewarding experience for you and your family.