The time of year, where you shop, and how you design can all affect your remodel costs. iStock By Patricia Mertz Esswein, Contributing Writer From Kiplinger's Personal Finance, June 2017 You can get a better deal from contractors if you schedule the work when they’re not busy, typically between November and January, says Jennifer Bertrand, a designer in Kansas City, Mo. Most homeowners don’t want to remodel during the holidays and have maxed out their budgets right afterward. Other tips to keep bathroom-remodeling costs in check:See Also: 7 Features That Will Help Your Home Sell Faster Guide to Scoring the Best Deals in 2017 Costco vs. Sam's Club Best Tools to Save on Online Shopping Surprising Perks From Your Credit Card Best Time to Buy Big-Ticket Items Get a Cash Bonus for Opening a New IRA Invest for Less With Commission-Free ETFs Trim Your Mortgage Rate With a 'Nonbank' Top Tech Bargains of 2017 Save Big on Exotic Travel Save on Air Travel Design smart. Keep the same layout so you don’t have to move plumbing, a costly job. If you need a new tile floor, wainscoting or shower surround, choose inexpensive tile for most of it and save the pricier, wow-factor tile for a decorative accent or the most visible shower wall, suggests Bertrand. To reduce your water bill, look for toilets and faucets with the WaterSense label. Sponsored Content Hunt for discounts. Visit retailers’ websites or sign up for e-mail updates to find current promotions. Look for outlet stores in large metro areas that sell retailers’ overstock items, returns and closeouts for deep discounts. Check Habitat for Humanity’s ReStore, where you may find new or like-new components donated by builders and homeowners.