Home renovation projects can be exciting, so exciting that it may even be tempting to want to jump-start them at a moment’s notice. However, starting one without sufficient planning might cost you. Here’s how you can prepare for the worst and avoid making the most common home renovation mistakes.
Not exploring your funding options. Rather than settling for less just because of budget constraints, you should explore the full spectrum of funding options available to you. A mortgage company can set you up with a home improvement loan, a construction loan, or a home equity loan. There’s also crowdfunding and cash-out refinancing.
Not having a cohesive plan.
Starting a home renovation project without a plan is a surefire way to end up going over budget. Draft up your ideal remodeling plan and work with your contractor to make sure it’s feasible, then you can start canvassing for materials and working on creating a budget that works for you.
Coming up with an unrealistic budget.
Your renovation budget isn’t just a number you can pull out of thin air. You have to ensure that you come up with a realistic one that’s based on your remodeling plans and an accurate estimate of your materials and labor. Don’t forget to give yourself some allowance too, in case you mess up.
Failing to take appliances into consideration.
Don’t forget about your appliances when planning out your layout. Make sure to measure each one properly so that you properly accommodate them into your plans.
Settling on the very first contractor you meet.
It’s recommended that have a range of options when it comes to your contractors so you can compare their services and prices. This ensures that you’ll end up with the best possible one for your project.
Fixating on trends.
Trends come and go — what looks great now will end up being impractical and old-fashioned in a few years time. It’s best to go for things that are classic and timeless so you won’t end up wasting your hard-earned money.
Purchasing cheap and inferior materials.
If there’s one thing you shouldn’t cut costs on, it’s the materials you’ll use for your renovation. Never settle on shoddy workmanship. You’ll end up spending more on replacements and repairs in the long run.
Doing everything by yourself.
Just because it’s a DIY project, doesn’t mean you actually have to do everything by yourself. You’ll get the best results for your renovation project if you work with professionals who actually know what they’re doing. Look into hiring a designer, contractor, and architect — these people will make sure you get the best bang for your buck.
Buying things on impulse.
It may be tempting to purchase whatever catches your eye when shopping for remodeling materials, but you shouldn’t give in to temptation. Only buy what you absolutely need. Bring a “grocery” list of these things, if you need to. This is why it’s important to create a budget and canvas for materials before you go shopping.
Most first-time home renovators will make a handful of these mistakes at some point. Now that you know what not to do, you’ll surely have a successful home renovation project in your hands.
