Time is Money: How to Manage Renovation Projects for Speed and Success
By Carissa Kristoff
Realtor, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Select Properties
Renovating a home for resale can be one of the most rewarding ventures in real estate—both financially and personally. But when you’re working on a tight timeline, the pressure can really start to build. I’ve been through my fair share of renovations, and after 19 years in the industry, I can confidently say that efficient time management is just as important as quality craftsmanship. Here’s how to tackle a flip project quickly while maintaining the high standards buyers expect.
1. Plan Like a Pro
The key to any successful renovation project is planning. You can’t afford to wing it when you have a timeline to meet. A solid, well-thought-out plan will save you from costly delays and mistakes. Start by creating a clear project scope that outlines what needs to be done in every room. Whether you’re painting walls, replacing floors, or updating fixtures, know exactly what you’re getting into.
For larger projects, consider hiring a designer or project manager. I can tell you from experience that someone with an eye for detail and an understanding of materials and costs can speed up the decision-making process, so you’re not second-guessing yourself on every decision. Additionally, make sure to establish a budget early on and account for a cushion to cover unexpected expenses, as these always come up in renovation projects.
2. Set a Realistic Timeline
There’s a fine line between pushing for speed and overpromising on time. When setting your renovation timeline, be realistic about how long each task will take. It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of a project, but making your timeline too aggressive will lead to burnout and mistakes.
I always suggest breaking down the renovation into stages—like demolition, construction, painting, and finishing touches—and setting deadlines for each stage. If you’re working with contractors, make sure they have clear expectations of when their part of the job needs to be completed. Overlapping stages, like painting while other work is being completed, can also help save time.
3. Use a Trusted Team of Professionals
Speaking of contractors, assembling a team of professionals you trust is crucial for speed. I’ve learned over the years that working with people who are reliable and highly skilled is the key to keeping things moving efficiently. You don’t want delays because of miscommunication or poor workmanship. A good contractor should also understand that time is money—ask for their availability and commitment upfront to avoid issues later on.
Also, keep your team small but highly effective. Too many cooks in the kitchen can cause confusion, and it’s easy to waste time in the process. Whether it’s a reliable plumber, electrician, or painter, make sure each professional has a specific role and timeline. You’ll be surprised how much quicker things go when each specialist is on the same page.
4. Prioritize High-Impact Updates
When you’re flipping a house, every square inch counts. However, not every part of the house needs to be gutted or overhauled. You can save time by focusing on updates that will make the biggest impact without requiring massive changes. For example, fresh paint and updated light fixtures can transform a room instantly and are much quicker (and less expensive) than, say, a complete kitchen renovation.
Also, consider areas like curb appeal—sometimes a new front door or updated landscaping can give the house a fresh, inviting look that adds tremendous value. I’ve worked on projects where the most impactful changes were small updates that didn’t take weeks of work, but they made a world of difference when it came to resale value.
5. Maintain a Clean and Organized Worksite
This may seem like an afterthought, but trust me—keeping a clean and organized worksite can save you a lot of time in the long run. It’s easy for debris, tools, and materials to pile up, leading to inefficiencies, missed supplies, or safety hazards. Before starting any project, designate areas for materials and tools, and ensure your team knows where everything is supposed to go.
In my experience, when the work area is tidy, everyone can move more quickly without wasting time searching for the right equipment or tripping over materials. Plus, this kind of organizational approach prevents accidents that could delay your project.
6. Streamline Materials and Supply Orders
One of the biggest time-sinks in a renovation project is waiting for materials. In my career, I’ve learned the importance of making sure all your supplies are ordered well in advance. Don’t wait until the last minute to get everything you need, or you’ll find yourself scrambling. By getting materials delivered early, you can avoid delays when the work requires them.
For larger projects, consider working with a supplier that can handle bulk orders and schedule timely deliveries. For example, if you’re installing flooring or cabinetry, make sure everything arrives before your contractor is ready to begin. You don’t want to stall the entire project because a shipment is delayed.
7. Stay on Top of Inspections and Permits
Nothing can delay a renovation project faster than a missed inspection or missing permits. While the timing for permits can vary depending on the type of work, it’s always important to stay ahead of the game. If your project requires permits, make sure you’ve submitted the necessary paperwork before you start. Delays in this area could hold up your entire timeline, so plan for inspections and permits early in the process.
8. Adapt as You Go
No renovation project is ever without its surprises. Sometimes, issues like structural damage or unforeseen problems with plumbing or electrical systems arise unexpectedly. When this happens, it’s important to stay flexible. These kinds of challenges can’t always be predicted, but addressing them quickly and making decisions promptly will minimize delays.
I always advise my clients to be proactive about budgeting for the unexpected—having a financial cushion will give you the flexibility to make quick adjustments as needed, without compromising the timeline or quality of work.
Conclusion
Flipping a home on a timeline is no small feat, but with the right approach, it can be incredibly rewarding. From careful planning to maintaining a clean and efficient work environment, focusing on time management during your renovation will allow you to complete your project on schedule without sacrificing quality. Whether you’re a seasoned investor or a first-time flipper, always remember that a smooth renovation process is built on organization, communication, and a commitment to excellence.
Happy flipping! And, if you ever find yourself in need of guidance along the way, I’m always here to help—whether it’s with buying, selling, or investing in real estate.
About Carissa Kristoff
With 19 years in residential real estate, Carissa Kristoff has built a reputation for providing clarity and confidence throughout every stage of buying, selling, or leasing a home. As part of the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Select Properties team, she collaborates with seasoned brokers, agents, and administrators to secure optimal outcomes for her clients. Carissa’s work ethic is matched by her commitment to enjoying life: she’s an avid sailor, snow skier, and certified yoga instructor. She also brings a hands-on approach to homeownership, thanks to her background running a residential cleaning and management company, where she honed her DIY skills in gardening, painting, and decorating. Whether guiding a first-time homebuyer or a seasoned investor, Carissa leverages her well-rounded experience to simplify the process and deliver top results.
