Blog Planning your project: How not to be surprised... Aug 11, 2025

Embarking on a construction or remodeling project is an exciting venture, yet it often comes with its fair share of surprises, delays, and unplanned expenses. At Wise Design & Management, we understand how important it is for our clients to have a seamless experience. Planning is key to avoiding unexpected hiccups along the way. In this article, we will outline essential steps for project planning to ensure your remodeling journey is as smooth as possible.

The first step in planning your construction project is setting clear objectives. Before contacting contractors or designers, take some time to define what you want to achieve.

  • Have you gotten tired of corporate America? Did you or are you buying a Franchise based business? And now you're trying to identify the next steps towards opening your doors. We are here to help!
  • Are you already a business owner, and looking to expand to a bigger location, a 2nd, 3rd, or 10th location?
  • Are you an investor looking to build Commercial Retail Space? Warehouse / office combo spaces, Storage Units?
  • Are you looking to build something from the ground up and change the face of the built landscape?
  • Are you looking to increase the value of your home, enhance aesthetic appeal, or improve functionality?
  • Having a clear vision will guide every decision and help keep the project on track.

Budgeting is another crucial aspect of project planning. Begin by determining your budget range and prioritize elements that are most important to you. Research is essential; understanding what you want is a must have and what you want is purely a want item; have your DREAM list ready to go broken down into the must have's and the want to have's. At Wise Design & Management, we provide TURN KEY Design Build Services. We plan your project from the front thinking about value engineering. Too many times customers get excited about one thing, and then that one thing ends up not being available...or for Reason XYZ does not work. We help plan your project from the front with a cost saving mindset. We do however request that all clients include a contingency fund in your budget to handle any unexpected expenses that might arise, ensuring that your project remains financially viable...and that those must have items don't have to be sacrificed.

Choosing the right construction and remodeling firm is pivotal to the success of your project. At Wise Design & Management, we pride ourselves on transparency and quality craftsmanship, two qualities you should look for in any contractor. Ask for referrals, read reviews, and have open conversations with potential hires to make sure they understand your vision and can deliver within your budget.

Once you have selected your contractor, detailed planning can begin. Create a project timeline that includes each phase of construction, from initial design to completion. Be realistic about deadlines, and remember that external factors such as weather or supply chain delays can impact your schedule. Regular communication with your contractor will help keep the project on track and expectations clear.

An often-overlooked aspect of planning is ensuring that you have all the necessary permits and approvals in place before beginning construction. Failure to do this can lead to costly delays and potential legal issues. Check with your local municipality about the necessary permits for your project type, as requirements can vary significantly depending on the scope and location of your work.

It's also important to prepare for the changes ahead. Depending on the scale of your remodeling project, certain parts of your space may be inoperable for weeks or months. Make the necessary arrangements to ensure that disruptions are minimized. This might include setting up temporary working or living spaces and having alternative arrangements for cooking and living.

Communication is key throughout the entire process. Schedule regular check-ins with your contractor to discuss progress, address concerns, and make any necessary adjustments. We recommend update meetings at least 2 times per month. At Wise Design & Management, we encourage our clients to stay informed and involved, ensuring that all questions are addressed promptly and effectively.

Steps to make sure are included in your Ground up New Build:

  • Civil Topographical Survey
  • Geotechnical Reports
  • Space use and needs assessment
  • Is the subject property zoned for the type of build I am planning?
  • Architectural Plans
  • Structural Plans
  • Mechanical, Electrical & Plumbing Plans
  • Do I have a corporate Brand Image I have to uphold? (Franchise Businesses)
  • Long term future expansion plans? Does this location have the space I need to expand in 5-10 years? Or would I be needing to move, again...

In closing, thorough planning is the cornerstone of a successful remodeling project. By defining clear objectives, setting a realistic budget, selecting the right contractor, obtaining the required permits, and preparing your project site, you can minimize surprises and maximize satisfaction. Wise Design & Management is here to support you through every step of your construction journey, ensuring a final result that exceeds your expectations.

Ready to get started? Book an appointment today.