How to Decide Whether to Remodel Before or After Moving In



No pre-built home is immediately perfect, so you’ll need to obtain a bathroom or kitchen quote and tackle a few renovations before moving in. However, if you think that the pre-built home already has most of the things you’re looking for, then there’s no need to rush your renovation plans. You may even choose to do a few renovations instead over the next few months! 

So, should you remodel before moving in or a few months after? To help you decide, DreamMaker Bath & Kitchen of Southern Rhode Island explains what to consider.

If You Remodel Before Moving In

If you’re considering remodeling your new-to-you home before moving in, keep in mind that it will take time and labor to ensure it gets done in time. Depending on what your plans are for your home, it can take a few weeks to a few months even with an experienced remodeler. Many contractors recommend that renovations should be completed before moving in if the home is a major fixer-upper.  If you need to replace the roof, siding, windows, doors, and most of the interiors, doing this after you move in may not be advisable.

You also shouldn’t move in immediately if you plan to expand the living space by building an additional room on the property or another floor. If you’re going to make significant changes to existing living space, be prepared for a bit of a difficult transition with construction. You also might want to live in temporary housing until the renovations are complete.

If You Remodel After Moving In

Sometimes, it’s better to live in your new-to-you home before calling your trusted remodeler. Even after you get a kitchen or bathroom estimate for your project, you might want to live in your home for a while before you start renovating. This helps you get to know your new pre-built home better while getting a better handle on the living space. You’ll also know the foot traffic choke points throughout the interior living space and how they can be redesigned. You might even discover what additional renovations you want that will fit your lifestyle! 

Waiting for a few months also gives you an idea of how much you’ll need to spend on upgrades and noting some of the original details you want to retain before renovation. It’s also easier to determine which rooms will need additional cabinets, closets, and other types of storage. Even certain details that you initially decided to get rid of before moving in may not be as problematic and keeping them will save you money on your home renovation!

Get in Touch With Us!

Searching online for a “contractor near me” doesn’t have to be difficult when DreamMaker Bath & Kitchen of Southern Rhode Island knows how to get the job done with your best interests in mind. Whether you decide to remodel before or after you move in, our team is committed to working with you to ensure the success of your project.

Call us today at (401) 399-3917, or fill out our contact form to get started! Our service areas include Wakefield, West Kingston, Kingston, Narragansett, Warwick, Westerly, West Warwick, Wood River Junction, and Wyoming.

Recent Posts
Mistakes to Avoid When Planning Your Home Office

In an era where remote work has become more prevalent than ever, having a home office that not only reflects your style but is also functional and conducive to productivity is crucial. In this blog post, we'll explore common mistakes you should steer clear of when planning your home office[...]

Read More

The 6 Zones of a Hard-Working Kitchen

Unlike the traditional kitchen triangle, which was developed in the 1940s and focused primarily on the stove, sink, and refrigerator, modern kitchens require a more nuanced approach due to the increase in both the complexity and quantity of appliances. This is where the concept of the six-zone kitchen comes into[...]

Read More

Design Your Space With the Help of Our Experts.

"*" indicates required fields

Services