Posted on January 8, 2025

How should I plan for 2025 projects?

W ith the new year comes dreams and plans for an ambitious 2025. But the bigger the project, the more complex the budget, so start the year right by planning for this year’s home projects now.

Here are my top tips for getting ready.

Prioritize

Make a list of all the projects you want to complete this year, starting with the most high-priority projects and making your way down. If you aren’t sure which projects should be most important, put safety and structural projects, like roo_ng and foundation repairs, at the top of your list.

Think like a buyer

Walk around your home, put aside your memories, and try to think like a buyer. That’s when you’re in your most critical mindset. Write down everything you see, especially things that stand out to you, and be honest with yourself about what’s most important.

Organize your priorities

Consider which are the top priorities you want to handle. Split them into three groups: structural, mechanical and “nice to have.” Structural things such as your roof and foundation take the top priority.

Next is mechanical, such as plumbing or HVAC. “Nice to have” is self-explanatory.

Get ballpark figures

Next, I recommend getting general estimates for how much each project will cost. You can use cost guides on Angi’s website to _nd averages for each type of project. Costs vary by scope and region, but that gives you a good starting point to work with for determining what to prioritize and what to save for.

Make decisions

After you prioritize your projects and get cost estimates, it’s time to choose which projects you will focus on. I recommend starting with the highest-priority projects that _t within your budget and going down the list from there.

Stay with the budget

Once you’ve decided on your projects and created your budget, stick to it. I recommend telling your contractor your budget as soon as possible so they can help you stick to it. Your contractor can help you determine what’s realistically possible within your budget, and they can help you make informed decisions about how to allocate your time and money.

Expect the unexpected

Always assume things might go wrong. When budgeting for a major project, include a cushion for unexpected expenses that might emerge. If you don’t have speci_c projects in mind this year, you should still set aside a budget for emergencies and repairs. It’s a good idea to budget 10 percent more than the number you give the contractor, so you can absorb any unexpected increases. A good rule of thumb is to set aside 1 percent of the value of your home for maintenance and repairs each year.

Veteran contractors recommend saving up between three and six months’ worth of your home expenses. If possible, set aside a few hundred dollars each month. Budgeting that money won’t pay for a new bathroom, but it will be vital when your HVAC system gives out on a 95 degree summer day.

Make a list of all the projects you want to complete this year, starting with the most high-priority projects and making your way down.