Whether your home renovation project has been something you’ve dreamed of doing for years or a more “spur of the moment” decision, your renovation will go a lot more smoothly if you take the time to plan it properly.

In fact, a good plan can make or break your renovation experience. Seriously.

Here are some tips for planning your renovation project:

Figure out why you want to renovate. Major renovation projects are major work so you need to make sure you’re doing it for the right reasons. Is it because you see the potential in your home and plan to stay in it for many years to come? Or are you looking to sell it and see renovation as a way to make it more attractive to potential buyers? Most experts agree that you should renovate for yourself, not for resale. At the very least, don’t pour piles of money into a high-end remodel when minor cosmetic surgery would suffice.

Have your home inspected. This will give you the information you need to make the right decisions about where to spend your money. It will also help prevent any nasty surprises during the renovation process that could throw a wrench into the works.

Talk with other members of the family to figure out when the work should occur. Major renovations are potentially very disruptive to family life. If everyone has had a say chances are they will be more understanding of the compromises that the renovation may mean.

Figure out your budget and arrange financing, if necessary. Financing options such as renovation loans may give you more money to invest into your home. Depending on the type of project you are undertaking doing a large amount of work all at once may make a lot more sense than going at it piecemeal.

Decide what materials and fixtures you want in advance. This not only ensures you stay within budget, it also means you will have what you need when the work is being done rather than making a last-minute decision and having to wait for the order to arrive.

Spend money for quality. You may save a few dollars for a cheaper option but if it won’t stand the test of time you’ll end up paying more in the long run. Keep the big picture in mind.

Make sure the renovation is in keeping with the rest of your home.

Think green. Choose energy efficient options wherever possible and you will reap savings for years to come.

Think about your long term needs to help determine your choices. A kids playroom may be a great idea but don’t make the décor too cutesy or you will be right back at the remodeling thing again in just a couple of years. Choose options that will last the years.

Hire a general contractor and thoroughly discuss what you want to have. This person will act as your main liaison and coordinate all the various trades. A good contractor knows the business and will ensure that everything runs according to plan.

If you are renovating critical living space, such as the kitchen, bathroom or living room, consider moving out if at all possible. At the very least set up an alternative area for cooking and personal hygiene.

Don’t wait until the trucks show up with workers and power tools to tell your neighbors about your plans. They will be a lot more supportive of the noise and general disruption if they are informed well in advance.