8 Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Home Remodeler
8 Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Home Remodeler
Planning a home renovation is exciting—but choosing the right remodeling contractor can make or break the experience. Before hiring a remodeler, it’s important to understand how their process works, how pricing is structured, and what communication will look like throughout your project.
Not all remodeling contractors operate the same way. Differences in planning, timelines, and project management can significantly impact your costs, schedule, and overall results. Taking the time to compare companies and ask the right questions can help you find a team that aligns with your expectations—and ensures your renovation runs as smoothly as possible.
Here are eight important questions to ask before starting your next remodeling project.
1. How Does YOUR Design-Build Remodeling Process Work?
Some companies will give you a “guesstimate” price at your very first appointment, while others may take several days or even a few weeks to more accurately estimate your project.
If you choose to work with a design-build company, design and construction will likely be two distinct phases, but still with the same main point of contact. If you work with a general contractor where much of the work is subcontracted out, the process may feel a bit choppier and scheduling may be at the mercy of multiple vendors. When working with design-build vs. a general contractor, the process is streamlined.
Listen for: How organized or disorganized their process is. Companies that provide a smoother experience usually have clear, structured systems rather than flying by the seat of their pants.
2. How Long Does the Design Phase Usually Take?
Many homeowners are eager to jump into construction as soon as they decide to renovate. However, most people don’t realize how many decisions go into a project until they begin the design process.
While some contractors plan as they go, a seasoned company will complete most—if not all—of the planning before opening any walls. For more specific timelines for different project types, check out our Timeline & Budget Expectations.
Listen for: How much preparation happens before construction begins. If a company has a very short design phase or recommends making decisions along the way, it can significantly increase the risk of scope creep.
3. When are Contracts Signed, and When Will I Know the Total Cost?
Remodelers approach contracts, pricing, and invoicing in many different ways. You’ll want to know exactly when you’ll be expected to commit—and for how much.
Some contractors charge separately for design, while others include it in the overall cost or credit it back toward construction. Contracts may also be split between design and construction phases. As a homeowner, you deserve to know what will be required so you can plan accordingly.
Listen for: Logical, clearly spaced contracts and payment schedules. Reputable contractors should never ask for more than 50% upfront to begin your project.
4. What if I Don’t Know What I Like? What if I Already Know Exactly What I Like?
We work with the entire spectrum of homeowners—from those who know exactly what they want to those who have no idea where to begin. And yes, many couples come in with completely different tastes, so if that’s you, don’t worry—we see it all the time.
No matter where you fall on that spectrum, you’ll want to ensure the team you choose can meet you where you are.
Listen for: Flexibility and guidance without someone taking over your design decisions. Some remodelers may project their personal style onto your project or push you toward selections that aren’t truly your taste. A great remodeler will listen, learn your preferences, and bring ideas aligned with your vision.
5. Do I Need to Visit Multiple Stores on My Own to Pick Out Materials?
When considering the time commitment required for a renovation, it’s helpful to know where and how you’ll be making material selections.
If you work with a design-build company, you’ll likely meet with your designer in one place to review curated options. Some contractors or smaller companies may send you from store to store to “pick out what you like” and report back. That can mean running all over town to make decisions on your own.
If you prefer a more streamlined experience, you may want to focus on remodelers who bring selections directly to you.
Listen for: Who will be responsible for sourcing options, and whether that feels manageable to you. Some people enjoy seeing every possible option, while others prefer a curated selection tailored to their style.
6. How Does Your Company Handle Change Orders or Price Increases?
Change orders can quickly become a financial headache and push your project beyond your planned budget—especially if the original estimate wasn’t accurate.
Unfortunately, we see this happen frequently, which is why we encourage homeowners to be cautious if the quotes they receive vary widely. Renovation projects are notorious for “surprise costs” once walls are opened, but in reality, many surprises can be mitigated with proper planning and investigation. Contractors who frequently work in your area often know the common issues homes tend to have.
Another challenge that has emerged in recent years is the rapid increase in costs for materials, labor, and overhead. While economic conditions have driven up remodeling costs overall, your contractor should still be able to explain any guardrails or timelines that help lock in pricing.
Listen for: Transparency and clear strategies to minimize major price changes. In most cases, well-planned projects should only involve change orders if you decide to add or upgrade something during the process.
7. What Happens After Remodeling Designs Are Finished?
It’s important to understand that even after final drawings are complete, there are still several steps before demolition begins.
If you’re working with a top remodeling company, there’s usually a short gap between the completion of design and the start of construction. This transition is important. Your visual designs are turned into technical specifications for the construction team, architectural reviews may take place, permits must be pulled, and trade partners may need to visit your home to complete their prep work.
Ask what this phase looks like and what your team may need from you as they finalize the plan. It’s also helpful to understand if additional agreements will be signed and what the next steps will be.
Listen for: Coordination and behind-the-scenes preparation. While you may be scheduled for the next available construction slot, there is still important work happening before the walls come down.
8. What Will Communication and Meeting Cadences Look Like?
Before choosing a remodeler, make sure their communication style matches your expectations. Many homeowners feel frustrated during renovations simply because they feel out of the loop.
At Odell Construction, we tend to err on the side of over-communication. Our design phase typically includes weekly or biweekly meetings to keep everything moving forward.
If you like to stay informed—or if your schedule is already busy and you don’t want to chase updates—ask specifically how communication will work.
Listen for: Clear expectations and defined communication channels. Your designer may not be available 24/7, but you should receive timely responses during normal business hours.
Conclusion
No two remodeling companies operate exactly the same way, and each will have its own approach to executing your project. What matters most is asking questions like these to determine whether their process aligns with your expectations.
The more you understand upfront, the smoother—and less stressful—your renovation experience will be. Renovating your home can sometimes feel overwhelming and even like an emotional roller coaster. But when you work with a contractor who not only produces beautiful work but also follows a proven process, the experience can feel much more like a joy ride.
At Odell Construction, we’re a bit Type A—in the best way. Not only do we design and remodel beautiful spaces across Cleveland’s west side suburbs, but we’ve also spent years refining and obsessing over our process.
If you’re on Cleveland’s west side and thinking about renovating your home, our design team would love to chat. Book your discovery call to get started today.