Let’s face it—home renovation can feel like a second job.
Between choosing tiles, hiring the right contractor and figuring out what the heck a “load-bearing wall” is, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed before you even swing a hammer.
But what if planning your renovation could feel… exciting?
Whether you’re updating a single room or reimagining your entire home, this guide will walk you through how to plan a home renovation—step by step. And yes, there’s a smarter, more visual way to do it: meet the MAIhome app, your new renovation sidekick.
Step 1: Start With Your Vision (Even If It’s Vague)
Before you touch your wallet, start with a simple question:
“What do I want to feel when I walk into this space?”
Do you want your kitchen to feel bright and social? Your bedroom to be a calm escape? Your bathroom to feel like a five-star spa?
Take 10 minutes to write down your dream experience—even if it’s a vibe, not a floor plan. This helps guide every decision you make moving forward.
MAIhome Tip:
With the MAIhome app, you can snap a photo of your current space and get AI-generated design ideas instantly. You can even talk to MAI concierge, who is with you every step of the way to customize further and be your renovation assistant. See modern, curated concepts layered directly over your existing room—because sometimes, you need to see it to know it.
Step 2: Build a Budget You Won’t Blow
Ah yes, the B-word. Renovation is a B and your renovation budget is the blueprint for everything that comes next.
- Start broad: How much are you willing to invest?
- Get detailed: Break it down—materials, labor, design, permits, contingency (always add 10–20%).
- Track as you go: Budgets shift. Stay flexible, but stay aware.
MAIhome Tip:
MAIhome doesn’t just show you what your space could look like—it also helps you estimate project costs, match with contractors and price out materials in real time. MAI is with you every step of the way from AI to Z!
Step 3: Map Out the Major Phases
Most home renovations follow a basic structure:
- Planning & design
- Permits & approvals
- Demolition
- Structural / rough-in work
- Finishes (cabinets, tile, lighting, etc.)
- Final touches + walkthroughs
Having a clear renovation timeline helps reduce surprises—and unnecessary stress.
MAIhome Tip:
The app acts as your personal renovation planner. It builds your scope, generates a timeline and even helps you communicate that plan with your contractor. No spreadsheets required.
Step 4: Use Tools That Make You Smarter (Not Busier)
In 2025, there’s no excuse to plan your renovation with a Pinterest board, a Google Doc and a half-broken calculator.
Enter your one stop shop: the MAIhome platform—a visual-first, AI-powered renovation assistant that puts everything in one place:
- Take a photo of any room
- Instantly see it fully renovated with AI
- Get personalized layout, style and finish suggestions
- Receive structured project scopes
- Match with verified contractors
- Track costs and manage materials
- Share everything seamlessly with your team
It’s not just a home renovation app—it’s the OS for remodeling your space with confidence.
Step 5: Expect Some Chaos—and Embrace It
Things will go off-plan. A cabinet might arrive in the wrong color. A contractor might ghost you (ugh). It’s part of the ride.
But when you have a clear vision, smart tools, and a realistic timeline—you’ll handle curveballs like a pro.
MAIhome Tip:
MAI helps turn chaos to clarity to save your mental and emotional well being while also looking out for your wallet and the well being of all those presidents from past lives too!
Final Thoughts: You Deserve a Home That Feels Like You
A great renovation isn’t just about resale value or trending finishes. It’s about crafting a space that makes your everyday life feel better.
If you’re feeling inspired but unsure where to begin—start small.
Open the MAIhome app. Snap a photo of your kitchen or bathroom. Let the AI do its magic. You might be surprised how easy it is to fall in love with your future home.
Ready to Start?
Visualize. Plan. Renovate. All from your phone.
Your dream home is closer than you think. Dream it, define it, do it with MAI home.