Q: I’ve been in my house for a couple of decades, and I think it’s time I did a large-scale remodel. But with such a big project, I have no idea who to call first to do the work. Who do you hire to remodel a house?
A: Many homeowners have been confused about who to hire to remodel a home. While it is intuitive to call a plumber to replace a toilet or an electrician to add an outlet, you may still wonder, “Can you hire someone to renovate a house?” In truth, the answer can depend on the size and scope of the remodel. Most of the time, homeowners hire a remodeling contractor to remodel a house and coordinate hiring additional subcontractors as needed. However, if the project will include major changes to the home’s layout, an architect and an interior designer can be valuable assets as well. Read on for more details on who you might need to hire for a remodel and why.
Embarking on a home remodel can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re unsure where to start. From my own experience chatting with friends who’ve tackled renovations, the key is understanding the project’s scope before picking up the phone. A clear vision of what you want—whether it’s a new kitchen layout or just fresh paint—helps you figure out who to call first. For most projects, a general contractor is your go-to, but larger jobs might need a whole team. Let’s break down the roles and why they matter.
General contractors can handle most remodeling jobs.
For just about any major remodeling project, homeowners will need a general contractor to oversee and carry out the work. A general contractor handles the logistical aspects of the project such as hiring subcontractors, obtaining the proper permits, and sourcing any necessary materials. Homeowners can look for remodeling contractors who specialize in renovating rather than new construction. If any friends or neighbors have remodeled recently, homeowners can start by asking who they hired and whether they were happy with the work. It may also be helpful to search online for “home improvement contractors near me.” It’s a good idea to have a general idea of what will need to be done to the space before contacting the contractor. The more information a homeowner can give them, the more likely they will be to provide an accurate quote and timeline for the remodel.
I’ve seen firsthand how a good general contractor can make or break a project. My neighbor’s kitchen remodel went smoothly because their contractor coordinated everything—plumbers, electricians, even the tile guy. To find a reliable one, don’t just rely on online searches; ask around your community for recommendations. A 2023 survey by the National Association of Home Builders showed that 85% of homeowners found contractors through word-of-mouth referrals, which often leads to better outcomes. Also, before you meet, jot down a rough plan of your remodel—specific details like cabinet styles or flooring types can help contractors give you a realistic estimate. If you’re vague, you might end up with a quote that’s way off, or worse, unexpected costs down the line.
You can hire a handyperson for jobs like laying flooring or hanging doors.
For a light renovation in which only a few updates are being implemented, a handyperson may be able to handle the bulk of the work. A handyperson can carry out tasks that do not require specific permits or licenses, such as painting, building shelves and cabinets, installing fixtures, or laying flooring. Hiring a handyperson can be a useful way to accomplish smaller-scope projects where homeowners aren’t planning to reroute any plumbing lines or change a room’s layout. Homeowners will want to be sure to inform the handyperson ahead of time of what jobs need to be done and confirm that they have the appropriate experience and qualifications.
A handyperson can be a lifesaver for smaller jobs, and I’ve used one myself for things like installing a new backsplash. They’re often more affordable than specialized contractors, with hourly rates typically ranging from $50 to $100, depending on your area. But here’s the catch: not all handypeople are created equal. Make sure they’ve got experience with the specific tasks you need—like laying hardwood floors versus just painting a room. A quick tip is to ask for photos of their past work; it’s a simple way to gauge their skill. Also, double-check they’re insured, even for small jobs, because accidents like a dropped ladder can still cause damage you don’t want to cover.
An architect may be required for any structural or layout changes to the home.
For remodels in which walls are knocked down, plumbing is rerouted, or changes are made to the home’s electrical system, there are structural concerns that must be addressed. For example, a homeowner may need to know whether a beam is a load-bearing one or if an exterior wall can support a new window before getting started with construction. This is where an architect comes in. Architects are trained in building technology and can verify that any changes will be structurally sound and up to code. They can also help formulate blueprints, weigh in on design choices, and advise on how to make the most strategic use of the space. In some cases, they will even oversee the entire project from start to finish.
Bringing in an architect might seem like overkill, but for big changes, they’re worth their weight in gold. I remember a friend who skipped this step and ended up with a costly mistake when a “non-load-bearing” wall turned out to be critical. According to the American Institute of Architects, about 30% of major remodels require an architect to ensure compliance with local building codes. They’ll also help you avoid design pitfalls, like placing a new window where it messes with your home’s ventilation. If you’re planning something like an open floor plan, their blueprints can also save you from costly revisions later. Just be ready for their fees—typically 8-15% of the project cost—but it’s an investment in getting it right.
Interior designers can also be part of the remodeling process.
Homeowners who would like expert advice on what design choices to make for their remodel may want to begin by speaking with an interior designer. Designers will devise a plan for the layout of a room and the placement of any appliances, cabinets, and other built-in features. A full-service designer will go the extra mile with ideas for materials, paint colors, and fixtures. While the homeowner may already have strong aesthetic preferences and have an idea of how they would like the room to look, a designer can leverage those ideas to design a cohesive and visually appealing space.
An interior designer can turn a good remodel into a great one. When I helped a family member redo their living room, the designer they hired suggested a color palette that tied everything together in a way we hadn’t considered. Data from the National Kitchen and Bath Association shows that homes with professionally designed interiors can see a 20% higher resale value, which is something to think about if you’re planning to sell. A practical tip: share your Pinterest boards or magazine clippings with the designer upfront—it helps them get your vibe quickly. Expect to pay $100-$200 per hour for a seasoned designer, but their expertise can prevent costly mistakes, like choosing a trendy tile that dates your space in a few years.
The cost of remodeling a home significantly depends on the extent of the project.
Remodeling projects can vary widely in price. But it stands to reason that the larger the scope of the remodel, the higher the home renovation costs will be. In addition to more labor and materials, large projects can require more than one professional’s expertise. For example, a homeowner may only need a single handyperson for a small-scale bathroom renovation. But if they’re converting the kitchen and living area to an open floor plan, they’ll probably need to hire a contractor and an architect at the very least. It may also be necessary to bring on an electrician, a plumber, or other subcontractors for various parts of the project. This should not discourage anyone from hiring the proper professionals—homeowners will just want to be sure to budget accordingly.
Budgeting for a remodel can be a real eye-opener. I’ve talked to folks who were shocked when their “simple” kitchen redo ballooned to $50,000 because they didn’t account for plumbing upgrades. According to HomeAdvisor, the average cost of a full home remodel ranges from $15,000 to $200,000, with kitchens and bathrooms often at the higher end. To keep costs in check, prioritize your must-haves versus nice-to-haves early on. For instance, focus on structural changes before splurging on high-end finishes. Also, get at least three quotes from contractors to compare, and don’t forget to factor in a 10-20% buffer for unexpected expenses like hidden water damage. Planning like this can save you a lot of stress.
Ensure any contractors hired are properly licensed and insured.
When hiring for any service, it’s important to ensure that the professional is qualified for the job. While researching “general contractors near me,” homeowners won’t want to hesitate to ask prospective home renovation contractors for their license number and whether they have any additional certifications. Also, homeowners will want to verify that the contractor is insured and carries workers’ compensation—if this is not the case, the homeowner could be held liable in the event that something goes wrong on the job. Additionally, it’s a good idea to ask for references and some examples of past work to make sure that they are a good fit for the project.
I can’t stress enough how crucial it is to check a contractor’s credentials. A buddy of mine hired a guy who seemed legit but wasn’t insured, and when a pipe burst during the job, he was stuck with a $2,000 repair bill. The Better Business Bureau reports that unlicensed contractors are a leading cause of homeowner disputes, so always verify licenses through your state’s licensing board. Ask for a portfolio of past projects, too—it’s not just about skills but also about their style matching your vision. And don’t skip the references; calling a couple of past clients can give you the real scoop on their reliability and work quality.
This Is the Year for a Kitchen Renovation
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Kitchens are the heart of the home, and it’s no surprise they’re a top remodel choice. A recent report from Remodeling Magazine’s 2025 Cost vs. Value study found that a mid-range kitchen remodel recoups about 67% of its cost at resale, making it a smart investment. If you’re planning one, focus on timeless upgrades like durable countertops or energy-efficient appliances to maximize value. I’ve seen friends transform their outdated kitchens with simple tweaks like new cabinet hardware and better lighting, keeping costs down while boosting appeal. Set a realistic budget early, and consider consulting a designer for high-traffic areas to ensure the space works for your lifestyle.