How to Manage Your Own Remodel Project

Taking on the management of your own remodel can feel daunting at first—but with careful planning and organization, it’s not only doable, it can save you up to 20% in total project costs. The key is understanding the full scope of the remodel and preparing accordingly. Below is a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the process.

Step 1: Understand the Full Scope

Before making decisions about new cabinets or layout changes, take time to map out the entire project. Ask yourself: What’s being removed? What’s staying? What needs to be updated—plumbing, electrical, flooring, or paint?

Write everything down, from demolition to finishing touches. Once you have a clear picture, begin collecting quotes—ideally from at least three vendors or contractors per category. This helps you develop a realistic budget and ensures you're getting fair pricing.

Step 2: Check Permits and Regulations

If your project involves electrical, plumbing, or structural changes, you may need permits from your local city or county. Whether or not your home is homesteaded can affect your ability to pull these permits yourself.

  • Homesteaded Homes: Homeowners often have more flexibility to pull their own permits.

  • Non-Homesteaded Homes: You may need licensed subcontractors to pull permits for their respective trades.

Start by contacting your local permitting office to learn exactly what’s required for your area.

Step 3: Budget for More Than Just Cabinets

Cabinets are a major part of a kitchen remodel, but they’re not the only cost. Plan for:

  • Demolition & Disposal: Removing and hauling away old cabinets.

  • Countertops: New counters typically follow after cabinet installation.

  • Backsplash: Often installed after countertops.

  • Electrical: Especially if you're adding under-cabinet lighting or new outlets.

  • Plumbing: Adding a sink or island may require plumbing changes.

  • Flooring: If your cabinets sit on top of the flooring, layout changes can expose areas that need patching.

  • Painting: Consider touch-ups or repainting for a refreshed look.

Step 4: Finding Reliable Subcontractors

The most reliable way to find quality subcontractors is through word of mouth. Ask people you trust—friends, neighbors, realtors, church members, or small business owners—for recommendations. While online reviews can be helpful, they can also be overwhelming or misleading without context.

For each trade (plumbing, electrical, flooring, etc.), aim to get three quotes. This allows you to:

  • Spot any quotes that are far above or below the average.

  • Evaluate each contractor’s communication style and professionalism.

  • Compare scopes of work to understand exactly what is (and isn’t) included in the price.

Clear, detailed communication is a good sign. A contractor who’s vague or overly casual may not be a great fit.

Step 5: Prepare for Temporary Inconveniences

Be ready to live without a kitchen for a week or two—or longer—depending on how smoothly everything lines up. It’s helpful to create a temporary kitchen space:

  • Set up a small cooking station in the garage or laundry room.

  • Use outdoor equipment like a grill or Blackstone.

  • Plan for meals that require minimal prep and cleanup.

Flexibility is key. The smoother your schedule and contractor coordination, the shorter your kitchen downtime will be.

Final Thoughts

Managing your own remodel isn’t for everyone, but if you're organized, willing to do the legwork, and comfortable overseeing multiple contractors, it can be a rewarding experience—and significantly reduce your overall costs. With the right planning, you can take control of your remodel and see it through from start to finish with confidence.