1. Define what “whole home” means for you
Write down every room and system you want to change, then mark each as must-have, want or maybe. Whole-home projects tend to grow, and a ranked list makes trade-offs easier later.
2. Look behind the walls first
Finishes are the fun part, but systems come first. Before design is final, assess:
- Electrical panel capacity and wiring age.
- Supply and drain piping material and condition.
- HVAC age and sizing, especially if walls or windows change.
- Roof condition, since new skylights or vents tie into it.
- Windows and insulation. Scottsdale summers make the building envelope a comfort issue.
3. Know your approvals
| Approval | When it applies |
|---|---|
| Building permits | Moving walls, adding plumbing or electrical, structural work. See our permit guide. |
| HOA architectural review | Exterior changes in planned communities. Sub-associations may review first. |
| Historic preservation | Homes in Scottsdale’s historic districts. See the city program. |
| ESL overlay | Exterior and site work in much of northern Scottsdale. See ESL. |
| Other jurisdictions | Paradise Valley, Fountain Hills, Cave Creek, Carefree and county areas use their own permit offices. |
4. Decide whether to live there
If the kitchen and most bathrooms are under construction at the same time, living in the house is hard. Moving out usually shortens the job. Phasing lets you stay, but adds setup and time. Decide early, because it shapes the schedule.
5. Set the budget around priorities
- Fund systems and structure first. They are expensive to revisit later.
- Carry one finish palette through the house so rooms feel connected.
- Choose where to splurge, such as the kitchen or primary bath, and where to keep it simple.
- Keep a contingency for what demolition reveals.
6. Choose a delivery method
You can hire an architect and then bid the work to contractors, or use one design-build team for both. Both work. Design-build gives cost feedback during design. Separate design gives you an independent design voice and competitive bids.
7. Make selections before demolition
Ordering cabinets, windows, tile and fixtures before work starts avoids a stalled site. Late changes are one of the most common causes of delays.
8. Plan for the desert climate
Use the renovation to improve shade, insulation and windows, and choose finishes that handle sun and dust. See choosing materials for an Arizona renovation.
When you are ready to talk scope, see whole home remodeling or start smaller with multi-room remodeling.