If you're planning on a home addition or remodel your probably doing some research. Planning ahead, budgeting, and really knowing what you want is the key to a successful home remodel or home improvement project. From general contractors, to home addition experts, those that focus on decks or exterior, kitchens and bathrooms, there are a wide variety of experts in the field. Here are 10 of the top tips for homeowners that are planning a home addition, renovation, or remodel.

#1. Make a realistic budget.

"Regardless of what your budget is, chances are what you want will naturally be more so try to budget on the lower end. For instance, if you have $50,000 for a kitchen remodel or major home addition, try to plan for around $40,000 and leave that extra $10,000 for incidentals and unexpected costs. Many home construction experts don't realize what they're going to get into and tell they start ripping out walls or flooring." – Nordic Home Solutions

#2. Will you be doing any of the demolition?

"Some homeowners will cut the budget by doing the demo themselves. However, just as professionals might come across unexpected items, homeowners need to be aware of these as well. If while demolishing a floor or wall you find dry rot, mold, mildew, or termite damage, this could add it to the cost so it's important to tell your contractor anything you find. Yes, this may add to the cost, but it's better to take care of it now then have to deal with the damage later on." – John McCormick, Albuquerque home specialist.

#3. What are you going to splurge on?

"You may not want to cut corners everywhere but there are a few things you want to splurge on such as that high-end countertop, fantastic baseboards, wainscoting, or an additional outbuilding. Whatever it is, make note of it now. Where you spend your money is important and while you can cut costs elsewhere, there are some things that are just mandatory." Aurora Quality Buildings

#4. Create a clear vision.

"The last thing home improvement specialists and contractors want to hear is ', I don't know what I want but I'll know it when I see it'. This leaves plenty of room for error and contractors have a very difficult time figuring out exactly what you want. They can't read your mind so it's important to use images, Pinterest, HDTV, images from magazines etc. to really give your contractor an idea of where you want to go. We need to start somewhere and the last thing you want is to start over. Try to have a clear vision and direction in your mind of where you want the remodel to go so that your contractor also has a clear idea and vision of your dream." Houses in Omaha

#5. Interview who you're hiring.

"Make sure you're asking the right questions. Whether you're hiring a general contractor or individual subcontractor, the right team is necessary for completing the right home renovation. Word-of-mouth works great but you still want to interview them for yourself. Ask if they are licensed, insured, and bonded. Ask about their projection on the project costs and how often they tend to go past their budget. Ask about projects they've done in the past and if there similar to the ones you want? Ask about how to get a hold of them and how many people they hire. What's the turnover of subcontractors and do they give any warranties." David Fleming, Keller Texas real estate expert.

#6. Don't listen to the television.

"Shows like HDTV and DIY programs are great for inspiration but remember, it is a show. Things don't often work out the way they do online and that you're usually seeing the extrema for ratings. Many people do a lot of things on their own and they end up backfiring. Be realistic as to what you can accomplish and what you need to hire a professional for. You might save a lot of money by doing the work yourself but if it's something unfamiliar, you'll never regret hiring a professional." Danny Gould, Silicon Valley real estate expert

#7. Have a plan for your family during the remodel.

"Living in a home during a remodel can be extremely stressful so you can either prepare for the discomfort or plan for an alternative. If it's a major remodel, especially of the kitchen, you may want to move out for a few days or a couple of weeks depending on how long and how extensive the project is. You don't want to get in people's way and major remodels can cause safety hazards, especially for little children. Make a plan as to how you're going to live in the home or an alternative during a home addition or remodel." – Kevin Leonard, Buford GA home expert

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#8. Upgrades can be costly.

"You may have all the grandiose ideas in the world but when you actually start looking at the upgrades, you may realize they are out of your budget. Whether you're building a brand-new home or creating a home addition, upgrades can add on fast. Ask your contractor about any upgrades, where you can cut corners, and what's really worth splurging on." Wynne Real Estate Group - Cypress Texas Real Estate

#9. Breathe.

"A home remodel can be just as stressful as moving, changing jobs, or major life change. Give yourself a break and don't forget to breathe, stay positive, and try not to let your emotions get in the way. If your marriage can make it through a remodel, you can make it through anything… Or so they say" – Kris Larson, St. George Utah Homes

#10. Don't forget about kids and pets.

"You might be thinking about the end result, but don't forget the process. If you have small children or pets, school and work schedules, etc., a home remodel or home addition can be a huge upset to your daily routine. Pets can feel stressed as well with a lot of noise and activity in the house that's out of the norm. If the major remodel is going to take up a lot of space, you might consider rehoming your pet while the project is underway." Thomas Ray, Pacific Palisades real estate expert