In most cases, remodeling before moving in is a smoother process overall. However, remodeling after moving in can make sense if timing requires it, or you need time to get familiar with the space before making changes.

Moving to Greenville?

Many of our clients move to Greenville in search of warmer weather, lower taxes, and a better quality of life. But as they start searching for a home in the upstate, they often realize that homes in their ideal neighborhoods may not be move-in-ready. Whether it’s a specific space that needs updating or the whole home needs a refresh, here are some guidelines to help you decide when it's the right time to remodel.

Should I Renovate Before or After Moving In?

Let’s face it – remodels are disruptive. Even with protective measures in place, there will still be dust and odors that are frustrating to live with. You’ll need to consider the construction noise if you work from home or have small children. Even pets can become stressed by all the noise and by people coming and going. While the majority of our clients live in their homes during a remodel, most of them would tell you they wish they’d had the opportunity to remodel before moving in!

Relocating your family is a major decision that will involve many adjustments – you want to minimize any stressors during this transition! While it may seem too good to be true, our process makes it possible to complete a remodel even from out of state. When you choose to remodel before moving in, your family can settle in right away and smoothly transition into life in Greenville.

Know exactly what the finished space will look like with 3D color renderings

Can I remodel a home while living out of state?

• Planning - At Ferguson Builders, our unique process makes it easy to remodel remotely. We fully design every project upfront - whether you’re local or not! During the initial planning phase, we provide you with floor plans, 3D color renderings, and a Fixed-Price quote so that you know exactly what you’re getting, even from afar.

• Selections - During selections, we meet with remote clients through video conference calls to talk through materials and finishes. From start to finish, everything is documented in our Buildertrend app: signed contracts, selection approvals, payment schedules, etc.

• Construction - Once construction begins, our team keeps you updated with daily logs and progress photos. Project schedules are always accessible and regularly updated to reflect any changes. Even some of our local clients have taken the opportunity to travel for extended periods during their remodel and stay informed from afar.

These homeowners decided to live in Colorado for the winter during this remodel!

Should I Live in the House Before Remodeling?

Some people want to live in the home before a major remodel, so they know exactly what needs to change. If you’re not sure what you want yet, consider doing a “soft” or Remove & Replace Remodel until you’ve lived in the home for a while. This will take the pressure off until you’re ready to make those bigger decisions.

Can I Remodel After Moving In?

If you just need to move in as soon as possible, don’t worry! Most of our clients live in-home during their remodel, and we do everything we can to make construction as painless as possible for them. Our carpenters communicate when they’ll be on site, work around pets, and take security measures seriously. And while we can’t promise to eliminate it entirely, we minimize dust as much as possible with zip walls and air scrubbers. Watch this testimonial from clients who worked from home during their extensive kitchen remodel.

What Spaces Should I Remodel Before Moving In?

• While it’s usually most cost-effective to do your remodeling all at once, if you want to split up projects for timing or financial reasons, start with floors. Hardwood refinishing, carpet replacement, and tile work become much more difficult once there is furniture in the home.

• The kitchen should be your next priority. As the heart of the home, an updated kitchen will make the biggest impact. If you move in without remodeling, the thought of packing up all your dishes and gadgets again may feel overwhelming! Many folks end up living with a kitchen they hate for far too long, just to avoid the hassle.

• Finally, if you plan to do any bathroom remodeling, consider completing at least one before moving in, so that when you remodel the others, you will have a functional bathroom to use during the project.

Popular Updates for Greenville, SC Homes

• Closed floor plans are common in many of Greenville’s older, established neighborhoods. Removing walls and opening up doorways is a common request for us!

• Not every kitchen is designed for hosting–something very important to many of our clients. We help imagine possibilities for your dream kitchen remodel. Often, this includes expanding the footprint, creating a large island, and adding luxury features like built-in appliances, layered lighting, and butler’s pantries.

• Sometimes, a home has everything you want but is missing one key feature. Maybe it’s a dedicated office space or an outdoor living space like a sunroom or screened porch. Additions can help make that nearly perfect home exactly what you envision.

We’re happy to walk homes with you or your realtor!

When Should I Hire a Contractor If I’m Moving to Greenville?

If you’re moving to Greenville and considering remodeling, involving a contractor early in the process can help you avoid costly surprises and make smarter buying decisions. We’re happy to be your resource, even when you’re still looking at houses! For a small fee, one of our Project Planners can walk homes with your realtor and provide feedback on the home’s condition and ballpark budgets for projects you’re considering. Another option is to contact us during the due diligence period, once you’ve submitted an offer on a house.

If you plan to visit Greenville soon, we’d love to meet you! Give us a call to schedule a meeting at our office and meet the team! Or, just call to talk through our process, and see if you’d be a good fit. Plus, we’re always happy to point you to the best coffee spots in the area. We wish you the best in your search for a Greenville home and look forward to working with you!