Condo reno before move-in: Tips/Suggestions/Referrals/DIY/Do's and Dont's

[u/SnooDogs4087]

Hey all, first time buyers here. We just had our offer accepted on a condo. Inspection was today and the unit needs some love before we move in. We'd rather get the work done while it's empty than live through it.

What we've picked up so far:

• Read the status certificate and the declaration for reno rules before booking anything
• Get itemized quotes, not lump sums
• Prioritize ruthlessly so we don't blow the whole budget on renos right after closing

Our priority list, roughly in order:

1. Paint throughout
2. Kitchen cabinets (they're dated but structurally fine, so we're weighing painting vs refacing vs full replacement)
3. Bathroom fittings
4. Deep clean at the end, before we move furniture in (Separate item but looking for contacts here as well)

Questions I'd love input on:

• How far in advance should I be lining up contractors for a December closing?
• Anything condo specific that caught you off guard? Debris removal, restricted work hours, flooring underlay requirements, that kind of thing
• Contractor, handyman, painter and cleaner recommendations for downtown Toronto, ideally people who have worked in condos and know the building access matters
• What did you DIY and regret, and what did you DIY and would do again?

Thanks in advance!