There's no better time than May's National Home Improvement Month to start planning your next home-remodeling project. Upgrading an outdated kitchen or building an addition are a few examples that are manageable with a little advanced preparation and vision. To make the process less daunting, try these steps:

Know why you’re remodeling. Are you selling? Addressing changing family needs or just upgrading? Your reasons for remodeling can impact your decisions—for example, if you’re selling, your choices may be more about buyer appeal than personal taste. On the other hand, if you’re building your dream kitchen, you may not want to compromise on certain features. Evaluate your project in light of your property value and return on investment and look for options that meet your overall needs.

Make a wish list/scrapbook. Use the Internet to peruse articles, look at decorating magazines, and visit showrooms. Get brochures, color samples, and fabric swatches, and cut out or print pictures that show features or details of work that you like. Take pictures of other homes, and keep a scrapbook of ideas. These ideas can help your home-improvement specialist achieve the look you want.

Know your budget. A realistic budget can help you prioritize options. In your bathroom upgrade, will you really use that expensive spa tub, or are luxury shower heads, bath fixtures, and a towel warmer more important? If you want a contemporary, industrial look in your kitchen, can you compromise elsewhere so that you can afford concrete or stainless-steel countertops?

Remember that “form follows function.” Look at your existing space critically. Evaluate how you use it. Assess high-traffic areas, kitchen work triangles, and overall flow. Define what already works and what doesn’t. Get input from all family members, even children. The “look” of your new space should be secondary to layout and function. You can work on achieving that “magazine” look after you have the basics.

Research products. Research your options for features like countertops and flooring. Manufacturers’ Websites are a great place to start, and most companies have an 800 number for product questions. Evaluate the pros and cons for each product type to determine which options suit your budget, lifestyle, and taste the best. For example, cork flooring is quite popular but soft, so it’s not suitable in high traffic areas. Consider something more durable, like tile. If you have children or elderly family members, slippery surfaces like marble or polished tile may not be suitable—laminate wood flooring or vinyl may be safer.

Some up-front planning and research can make your remodeling project go a lot smoother and help ensure that you’re satisfied with the end results. Above all else – remember to have fun!

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