A whole-home renovation is the most transformative thing you can do to a house short of building a new one. It’s also a significant commitment of time, money, and trust. At Edina Building & Remodeling, we’ve guided dozens of families through this process, and the most important thing we can do is set clear expectations from day one.
Here’s what the process actually looks like.
Phase 1: Discovery & Design (4–8 Weeks)
This is where we listen. We walk through your home together and talk about what’s working, what isn’t, and how you envision living in the space. This isn’t about picking countertops yet — it’s about understanding your daily routines, your family’s needs, and your long-term plans for the house.
From there, our design team develops floor plans, elevations, and material boards. We work through two to three rounds of revisions until the design feels exactly right to you. During this phase we also develop a detailed scope of work and budget so there are no surprises later.
Phase 2: Pre-Construction (2–4 Weeks)
Once the design is locked in, we move into planning mode:
- Permits — We handle all city permits and ensure the project meets current building codes.
- Material orders — Custom cabinetry, windows, and specialty items often have 6 to 10 week lead times. We order these early so they arrive when we need them.
- Scheduling — We map out the full project timeline, subcontractor by subcontractor, and share it with you so you always know what’s happening and when.
If you’re living in the home during the renovation, this is also when we plan the logistics — dust barriers, temporary kitchens, access routes, and daily cleanup protocols.
Phase 3: Demolition & Rough Work (2–4 Weeks)
Demolition is the dramatic part. Walls come down, old systems get pulled out, and the house opens up. It can feel unsettling to see your home stripped to the studs, but it’s also the moment where possibilities become real.
During rough work, we install or update:
- Structural framing — New walls, headers, and floor systems
- Electrical — Updated wiring, new circuits, smart home rough-ins
- Plumbing — Relocated or upgraded supply lines and drains
- HVAC — Ductwork modifications, new zone controls, or system upgrades
Each trade is inspected by the city before we close the walls.
Phase 4: Finishes (4–8 Weeks)
This is the longest phase and the most rewarding to watch. Your home starts coming back together:
- Drywall, taping, and paint
- Tile and stone installation
- Cabinetry and countertop installation
- Hardwood flooring
- Trim, doors, and hardware
- Fixture installation (lighting, plumbing, appliances)
Your project manager provides weekly updates and is available daily for questions. If a selection needs to be made on-site, we coordinate with you immediately rather than guessing.
Phase 5: Punch List & Walkthrough (1–2 Weeks)
At the end of the project, we compile a detailed punch list — every minor adjustment, touchup, and alignment issue — and work through it systematically. Then we do a final walkthrough together.
We want you to be thrilled, not just satisfied. That means we don’t consider a project finished until you do.
Typical Timeline
For a full whole-home renovation in the Minneapolis area, the total timeline from first meeting to final walkthrough is generally 5 to 8 months, depending on the scope. Additions, structural changes, and custom millwork can extend this.
The most common cause of delays? Late decisions on materials. The earlier you finalize your selections, the smoother the project runs.
Is a Whole-Home Renovation Right for You?
If you love your neighborhood but not your house, the answer is usually yes. A well-planned renovation lets you keep your location, your lot, and your neighbors while creating a home that truly fits how you live today.
We’d love to talk through what’s possible. Every great project starts with a conversation.