Martin’s Top Tips for Planning Your Renovation
As the owner of Gold Level Contracting, I’ve had the privilege of working with countless homeowners across London, Ontario, helping them transform their homes into spaces that better reflect their lifestyle and needs. Over the years, I’ve learned that the most successful renovation projects don’t just start with a hammer — they start with a plan.
Whether you’re updating your kitchen, finishing your basement, or tackling a full-home remodel, proper planning is key. In this blog, I’m sharing my top tips to help you set the stage for a successful renovation — with less stress and better results.
1. Define the Purpose of Your Renovation
Before you pick up a paintbrush or shop for new tile, take a step back and ask: Why am I renovating?
Are you looking to enhance the look and feel of your home?
Do you need more functional spaces for your family?
Are you preparing to put your home on the market?
Defining your “why” will guide every other decision, from budget to materials to layout. If you’re unsure where to start, we can help you prioritize your goals during a consultation.
2. Set a Realistic Budget (and Add a Contingency)
Budgeting is one of the most important — and often overlooked — aspects of renovation planning. Make sure to factor in:
Labour and materials
Permit fees
Demolition and cleanup
Design and planning fees
Then, add a contingency of 10–20% to cover unexpected costs, like hidden water damage or structural surprises.
At Gold Level, we pride ourselves on transparent pricing and helping our clients stay within budget without sacrificing quality.
3. Prioritize Spaces That Add Value
When planning renovations, focus on the areas of your home that will have the biggest impact:
Kitchens – the heart of the home and often the most used space
Bathrooms – comfort and functionality go a long way
Basements – create usable square footage for family, work, or play
Energy-efficient upgrades like new windows, insulation, or exterior doors not only improve comfort but lower your utility bills.
Check out our full list of renovation services to see where we can help.
4. Choose the Right Contractor
Hiring the right contractor can make or break your project. Before you commit, be sure to:
Ask for references and read reviews
View past work or portfolios
Confirm licensing and insurance
Ensure clear communication and responsiveness
We covered this in greater detail in our blog “High Quality Renovations” — it’s a must-read before you sign a contract.
At Gold Level Contracting, we’re committed to earning your trust by delivering quality workmanship, clear communication, and reliable service.
5. Plan for the Seasons
In Ontario, our weather plays a major role in renovation planning. Spring and summer are ideal for exterior work, such as:
Roof repairs or replacements
New siding or windows
Deck building or repairs
Winter can be a great time for indoor projects such as bathroom upgrades, kitchen remodels, or basement finishing. For more on seasonal planning, check out our recent post “Spring Home Check-Up - Prep for Summer Renovations”.
6. Don’t Underestimate the Prep Work
Some of the most important steps happen before the first day of the demo. Be sure to:
Apply for permits early to avoid delays
Order materials in advance, especially if they’re custom
Discuss living arrangements — will you stay in the home or relocate during major work?
Good prep = fewer surprises. We help all our clients through the planning phase to ensure everything runs smoothly.
7. Communication Is Key
The most successful renovations happen when there’s a clear and consistent line of communication between homeowner and contractor.
Set regular check-ins or weekly updates
Use shared documents or apps to track decisions and changes
Don’t hesitate to ask questions or share concerns
At Gold Level, we make communication a priority. Our clients know what to expect every step of the way — and that builds trust.
Bonus Tip: Trust the Process
Renovations are exciting — but they can also be messy, noisy, and at times, a little overwhelming. Having a clear plan, a professional team, and open communication helps reduce the stress and keep your project on track.
Planning a renovation doesn’t need to feel daunting. With clear goals, a realistic budget, and the right contractor by your side, your project can be a smooth and even enjoyable experience. At Gold Level Contracting, we bring years of experience, personal attention, and pride in our craft to every job.
If you're ready to start planning, we’d love to chat. Visit our Contact Page or explore our Services to learn more about how we can help make your renovation goals a reality.
Extra Resources
Every great renovation starts with a great conversation. Whether you're just gathering ideas or ready to start building, reach out to Gold Level Contracting today. As a trusted general contractor, we’re here to help you every step of the way — from first design to final inspection.
Let’s bring your vision to life — book a consultation now.