Top Questions to Ask Before Starting a Major Renovation
Renovating your home is a significant investment - financially, emotionally, and logistically.
At MCD, we’re often asked the same smart, strategic questions from clients who want to do it right the first time.
Below, we’ve gathered some of the most important ones - along with our candid answers to help you start your project with clarity and confidence.
How much should I really budget for a full renovation?
The real question isn’t just how much, but what do I need to budget for. And the answer goes far beyond construction.
Think: design fees, permit drawings, city fees, appliances, furnishings, temporary accommodations, and a healthy contingency.
We help our clients build a realistic picture of total costs so there are fewer surprises later.
Builder quotes don’t typically include many of these essentials - so part of our role is helping you understand the full scope.
What hidden costs should I be aware of?
Demo is where the fun begins - and where unexpected issues often show up.
Structural surprises, out-of-date wiring, and plumbing issues are all possibilities. Beyond that, smaller costs tend to stack up: duties, shipping, furniture assembly, appliance hookups, storage, post-reno cleaning…even parking tickets.
We anticipate these wherever possible and build in buffers so they don’t derail your budget mid-project.
How long will this take, realistically?
It depends on the size and scope of the work, as well as municipal timelines. Permits alone can take anywhere from a few weeks to over a year.
At MCD, we create a full project schedule - design through to installation - so you know what to expect and when. Our planning ensures that once construction begins, we’re not playing catch-up with materials or decisions. That’s how we keep your renovation running as efficiently as possible.
When should I bring a designer into the process?
The earlier, the better. Ideally before hiring a contractor.
Your designer should help shape the vision, finalize the plans, align the budget, and begin sourcing materials well before anyone swings a hammer.
A clear design plan from the outset prevents costly mid-construction changes and eliminates last-minute decisions. It also allows your contractor to provide a far more accurate quote, removing the guesswork (and extra buffer costs) they’d otherwise need to build in.
Can I live in my house during the renovation?
Sometimes yes - but more often, no.
Living through a renovation is noisy, dusty, and often involves long periods without a working kitchen or bathroom.
We’ll walk you through what’s realistic for your scope and timeline, and help coordinate temporary accommodations or phasing if needed.
And for clients moving back in after a full renovation, our optional home organization services ensure your new space is not only beautiful, but thoughtfully set up for everyday living - from kitchen drawers to linen closets.
Do I need an architect and a designer?
It depends on your project. Structural changes or additions usually require an architect or structural engineer. But for interior renovations - kitchens, bathrooms, full-floor overhauls - our team often leads the process, from space planning to permit drawings to final styling. When needed, we collaborate closely with architects and engineers to ensure a seamless process.
What exactly does an interior designer handle?
A lot more than selecting fabrics and paint colours.
At MCD, we manage the entire process: concept design, technical drawings, construction oversight, millwork detailing, product sourcing, procurement, scheduling, and installation.
Think of us as your project quarterback - balancing beauty with function while managing the complexity on your behalf.
How involved do I need to be?
That’s entirely up to you.
Some clients want to be involved in every decision, while others prefer a curated, high-level presentation and minimal day-to-day input.
Our job is to adapt to your preferences, communicate clearly, and protect your time - while delivering a result that reflects your lifestyle and taste.
Ready to Renovate - Without the Guesswork?
At MCD, we specialize in managing every detail of large-scale renovations, so you don’t have to.
From initial planning to final styling, we bring clarity, structure, and creativity to the process - backed by years of experience and a trusted network of trades.
If you're considering a major renovation and want a partner who can guide you every step of the way, let’s talk.