10 Ways to Stay Sane During a Renovation

May 29, 2020

Commercial renovations can be time-consuming, require a lot of decision-making, and disrupt any business’s sense of normalcy. When the phases of your renovation are postponed and unexpected problems appear, staying sane is essential. Take a look at some of our best tips when preparing for your next renovation.

Big renovation projects are stressful in a myriad of ways. Learn how to stay sane and on task with these recommendations from our property management team. Click To Tweet

How to Stay Balanced & Maintain Control

Renowned writer Catherine Pulsifer once said, “How we perceive a situation and how we react to it is the basis of our stress. If you focus on the negative in any situation, you can expect high-stress levels. However, if you try and see the good in the situation, your stress levels will greatly diminish.”

While every renovation process and construction project has its own set of dynamics, managing your anxiety level should be a top priority. From the initial planning stage to every decision until completion, follow these steps to help you reduce stress.

1. Have a vision
2. Set reasonable deadlines
3. Monitor your expenditures
4. Hire professionals when necessary
5. Keep your team accountable
6. Celebrate each milestone
7. Expect problems to arrive
8. Make a contingency plan
9. Don’t micromanage
10. Remember your vision

1) Have a Vision

Without having a goal or vision of what you want to achieve, your renovation plan will ultimately fail. Before you start any project, make a plan of what you want to accomplish from start to finish. Adjustments will need to be made later, but it’s good to start with a rough draft to help you stay focused throughout your project.

2) Set Reasonable Deadlines

One of the hardest parts of managing a remodeling project is having to make a schedule that will work for everyone. From hiring contractors to keeping your workers on task, the timeline you set will affect your project’s completion. Instead of setting unrealistic deadlines, consider the unique needs of your property. Consult the experts and find out how long certain projects will take such as new floors, building structures, or installing appliances.

Pro Tip: Depending on your community, you may need to obtain a license or permit for carrying out a construction project. Contact your local representatives for assistance so that your project isn’t delayed.

3) Monitor Your Expenditures

The cost of commercial renovations can add up quickly. As a property owner, it’s wise for you or a dedicated team member to monitor your expenditures on a daily basis. Having a budget is great, but if you’re unaware of overspending, your project could be at risk for delay or bankruptcy. Maintain control of your budget to ensure a successful renovation.

4) Hire Professionals When Necessary

In most construction projects, there are dangerous situations or health hazards that require a professional technician or tradesman. Reduce your stress levels by hiring a professional to help you get the job done correctly the first time.

5) Keep Your Team Accountable

If you’re managing a project, your team should be your priority. While the project needs to be completed in a timely manner, knowing the duties of each of your team members is crucial. Assign individual tasks and make sure your team has the right tools to accomplish those tasks rightly.

6) Celebrate Each Milestone

Motivation is key when it comes to staying sane during a renovation. Issues may come, but if your team is accomplishing tasks, it’s your job to celebrate! As you’re monitoring the progress of your project, determine which milestones could be celebrated. Whether it’s taking your team out to lunch or increasing wages, you can help improve morale within your team.

7) Expect Problems to Arrive

Between severe weather conditions, damaged materials, and faulty equipment, your project will invariably experience some type of problem. While it’s important to plan ahead, there will still be unforeseen situations. Expect these problems to arrive, and decide now how you’re going to respond to prevent any undue stress.

8) Make a Contingency Plan

Anticipating future problems is one way to keep your team on track, especially when partnered with a contingency plan. Make a list of any emergency or unexpected situations that could occur during the life of your project. When problems arise, stress and frustration may impede your judgment. By having a contingency plan, you can make the best decisions for your renovation.

9) Don’t Micromanage

Keeping your team accountable doesn’t mean you have to watch their every move. Determine an effective and respectful way to monitor the progress of your renovation project, and then take a step back. According to a study conducted by the University of Pennsylvania, employees tend to work more, harder, and better when given autonomy over their schedules.

10) Remember Your Vision

Adjustments will need to be made and issues will arise, but don’t forget the initial scope of your project. Take a deep breath. With the right set of tools, you’re well on your way to making your project design a reality.

Staying Sane During a Renovation

Whether you’re building a new office space or restoring an old building, completing your project is a huge accomplishment. By making a plan now to confront potential stressful situations, you can complete your project effectively from start to finish.

Do you have a building project in the works? Connect with our team of construction managers to help you make the best decisions for your property.