Planning a home remodel is exciting, but let’s be real—you want to know how long it’s actually going to take.
The truth? Every project is unique, but we’re here to break down realistic timelines for a kitchen remodel, a bathroom renovation timeline, how long a whole home remodel takes, and other common projects.
Below, we'll breakdown timelines, give you tips on keeping your budget under control, and answer a few frequently asked questions to give you confidence as you take the first steps in planning!
How Long Does a Home Renovation Take From Start to Finish?
No two home remodeling projects are the same. Even average timelines per room or a full house renovation will vary based on the extent of work and design complexity.
But don't worry! Because we value your trust and confidence in the process, we're revealing the average timelines for every type of home remodel, from consultation and design to demolition and construction.
Here are the design-build home remodel timelines per project type:
- Whole Home Remodel: 7 - 10 months
- Kitchen Remodel: 5 - 7 months
- Bathroom Remodel: 4 - 6 months
- Home Additions: 5 - 8 months
- Outdoor Additions: 5 - 8 months
Why Do Home Renovations Take So Long?
We get it. By the time your remodel reaches the construction phase, you could be experiencing the dreaded "remodel fatigue."
Why's that? Internet search results could be to blame. Plenty of times, a simple online search will show you results that quote only the construction phase and leave out all the stages that lead up to demo day.
That's why we include the full start-to-finish timelines, so you'll know exactly what to expect and avoid remodel fatigue. We also give every homeowner access to our construction management program, Materio. This keeps you 100% in the loop so you'll always know where we are in the process.
Remodeling a home the right way will take longer than budget remodelers and those remodeling companies that quote unrealistic timelines just to get you in the door.
Basically, if a remodeler promises a timeline that sounds too good to be true, it's because they're leaving out a huge part of the entire remodeling process: the estimate, design, and pre-construction phases.
Home Renovation Design & Planning Timelines: 3 to 4 Months
No matter what type of remodel you're taking on, the pre-construction timeline is fairly consistent. This phase ensures that every design detail, your budget, and the construction schedule are locked in before construction begins.
These are the stages that lead up to construction and how long you could expect each to take:
- Consultation: 3-5 days
- Initial Project Estimate: Day of Consultation
- Design: 2-3 weeks
- Final Project Proposal: 1-2 weeks after design
- Selections: 30 days
- Pre-Construction/Scheduling: 30 days
Once all the planning is complete, you're ready to dive into construction!
How Do You Control a Remodel Construction Budget?
Keeping a remodel on budget isn’t about cutting corners—it’s about smart planning and making informed decisions before construction even starts.
A clear vision, strong communication, and a reliable design-build team will make all the difference in keeping your remodel on track financially.
Here’s how to stay in control of your remodeling budget from start to finish.
Take Your Time During the Design Phase
The design phase is where your remodel truly takes shape. Rushing through it can lead to costly surprises, like change orders during construction or materials that don’t quite fit your vision.
A detailed, well-thought-out design plan ensures that every decision—from layout to finishes—is carefully considered before construction starts. Taking your time now will save money and stress later.
Come to Your Design Meeting Prepared
Having a solid idea of what you want will help speed up the process and prevent issues later. Before your design meeting:
- Gather photos, colors, and layouts that inspire you.
- Make a list of what isn’t working in your current home.
- Prioritize must-haves and nice-to-haves so your design team can work within your budget.
- Be realistic—your team can help determine what fits within your budget and what may need to be adjusted.
Keep reading to get a much more detailed step-by-step guide on what this step looks like in action!
Don't Forget About the Not-So-Obvious Costs
Beyond construction costs, there are other expenses to keep in mind. Plan for:
- Furniture and decor: A remodeled space deserves the right finishing touches.
- Landscaping: Exterior updates can enhance curb appeal and function.
- Temporary living arrangements: If your remodel makes part or all of your home unusable, budget for alternative accommodations like a rental or short-term storage.
Set Aside 10-15% of Your Budget for Contingency
Even the best remodelers in San Antonio can run into unexpected issues, like hidden damage, price fluctuations, or delays.
Setting aside 10-15% of your budget for contingencies gives you a financial cushion, allowing your project to stay on track without overspending. A great remodeler will help plan for the unexpected so you don’t get blindsided later.
Frequently Asked Questions From Homeowners Like You
A successful remodel starts with clear answers to all your questions. A trustworthy remodeler won’t just tell you what you want to hear—they’ll set realistic expectations and guide you through every step of the process.
Is It Worth Renovating Your Whole Home at Once?
Absolutely—if you’re ready for the investment. Remodeling your whole home in one go allows you to create a cohesive design, minimize disruptions, and ultimately save money in the long run.
Remember that breakdown of the planning phase above? When you remodel your whole home at once, there will be only one round of that phase rather than having to do it over and over and over again. You'll benefit in a huge way, in terms of both budget and timeline.
By tackling everything at once, you streamline the process, finish sooner, and enjoy your fully remodeled home without living in a construction zone every couple of years. Plus, your remodeler can help prioritize and phase the work so you maximize your investment without feeling overwhelmed.
Should I Move Out During a Kitchen Remodel?
You can stay in your home during a kitchen remodel, but be prepared—it won’t be business as usual. Without access to your stove, sink, and full kitchen storage (or an ADU with a full kitchen), you’ll need to set up a temporary kitchen to keep maintain your sanity.
Here’s how to prep your temporary kitchen:
- Choose a spot that makes the most since, like your garage.
- Set up a space with small appliances like a microwave, toaster oven, and coffee maker.
- Use a utility sink for basic dishwashing.
- Stock up on disposable plates and utensils to minimize cleanup (we know—it's not environmentally friendly, but it's necessary and temporary).
- Use a mini fridge or cooler for essentials.
- Plan easy, no-cook meals and take advantage of dining out when needed.
If you love to cook, or if your remodel is extensive, moving out for a short time may be the better option. Your remodeler can help you decide what works best based on your kitchen remodel timeline.
What Is the First Thing You Should Do When Remodeling a House?
Before knocking down walls or picking out paint colors, planning is key to a smooth remodel.
This roadmap ensures every detail is accounted for, keeping your project on track and within budget. Creating a remodeling checklist helps you stay focused, prioritize what matters most, and make decisions with confidence.
Set Your Remodeling Goals
Before diving into a whole home remodel, take time to define your goals. Which spaces need updates? What changes will improve function, comfort, and style for your family? Thinking through these details now will make all the difference later.
Create a Must-Have List
Your must-haves are the non-negotiables—things that improve function, safety, efficiency, and just how your home makes you feel. These should be addressed first before moving on to the fun extras. To get this part of the process moving, ask yourself these questions:
- What about my home isn’t working for my daily routine?
- Which spaces feel too small, awkward, or outdated?
- Am I constantly struggling with a lack of storage, or is it just not designed efficiently?
- Is my kitchen set up to make cooking and entertaining easy, or does it feel cramped and frustrating?
- Would opening up certain areas improve the flow of my home, or do I prefer defined spaces?
- Do I need better lighting in key areas, or is my current setup working well?
- Are my bathrooms functional and comfortable, or do they feel outdated and impractical?
- Am I using every room in my house effectively, or could certain spaces serve a better purpose or be opened up?
- How can I plan ahead for future needs, like a growing family, aging in place, or making my home more efficient?
Focusing on must-haves first ensures your home works well before adding the finishing touches.
Dream Big With a Wishlist
Once your essentials are covered, it’s time to dream big! A wishlist includes the luxury features that would make your home truly special. Consider these popular luxury features homeowners love:
- A statement fireplace in the living room
- Heated flooring in bathrooms and entryways for added comfort
- A gourmet kitchen with a professional-grade range, built-in espresso machine, and custom storage solutions
- Walk-in pantry or back kitchen
- Smart home technology, including lighting, security, and climate control automation
- A custom wine cellar or built-in wine fridge
- Outdoor kitchen with a pizza oven, built-in grill, and bar seating
- Home theater with a projector, surround sound, and plush seating
- Home gym with custom flooring, mirrors, and built-in equipment storage
- Designer lighting fixtures, including statement chandeliers and layered lighting plans
- Primary suite with a private balcony, fireplace, and custom closet system
- High-end flooring materials such as wide-plank hardwood, marble, or natural stone
- Mudroom with custom built-ins for organized storage and a dog-washing station
- dedicated home office with custom built-ins and soundproofing for privacy
Keeping a separate wishlist helps balance budget priorities while still incorporating dream-home elements wherever possible.
The More Detailed, the Better
The more inspiration and detail you gather, the smoother your remodel will go. Start creating:
- Online vision boards with colors, finishes, and layouts you love.
- Saved magazine clippings showcasing dream-home inspiration.
- Photos of design details from friends’ homes or places you admire.
This helps your design-build team understand your style and uncover ideas you might not have considered. Plus, detailed planning minimizes costly change orders, helping you stay on budget while bringing your vision to life!
Let’s Talk About Your Home Goals!
At Hill Haven Homes, we’re not just builders—we’re your partners in delivering the home that feels like, well, home.
We know this process is deeply personal, and we’re here to make it smooth, exciting, and completely tailored to you.
From the first conversation to the final walk-through, our focus is on clear communication, thoughtful design, and an experience that feels just as rewarding as your finished home.
If you’re ready to get started or just want to talk through your options, we’re here to help. Let’s build something amazing together—a home that fits your life perfectly!
