Popular home renovation programs on TV make home renovations look extraordinarily easy. Unfortunately, they don’t always show what takes place between the before and after photos. If anything, renovating a home is more than just a couple flirting on camera or arguing over wallpaper.
In reality, home renovation projects can be a nightmare, especially for first-timers. They can also be complex, tedious, and time-consuming. If you are not careful, they can also be very costly. The good thing is you can always learn from other people’s mistakes, so renovating your home won’t be as taxing.
So before tearing your house down, keep the following home renovation mistakes in mind and avoid them at all costs:
Home Renovation Mistake #01: Investing in the Wrong Renovation Project
If you intend to sell your house, it is essential to remember that what can seem like a great idea to you might not be as attractive to future homebuyers. A wine cellar with built-in storage and temperature control? Sounds like one of the best ideas ever! However, to many homebuyers, it is nothing more than an unnecessary expense.
You need to focus on renovations that will provide the most value and bring in the most return on your investment. Adding a patio, re-tiling the bathrooms, adding granite countertops, and landscaping are considered some of the best renovation projects you can do.
Home Renovation Mistake #02: Rushing the Job
If you have watched enough home renovations shows, you most likely know that it is possible to build an entire home in just a week. However, it also pays to remember that TV is not real life. For real-life renovation projects like yours, it is recommended that you set aside ample time to plan so you can cover all the bases and address the unexpected.
Some renovation experts consider planning the whole thing in 3 to 6 months ideal as opposed to overkill. You should give yourself enough room (plus cushion it with a few extra weeks) to plan the renovation project properly, find the best team to do the job, and work through anything unexpected. You will thank yourself later.
Home Renovation Mistake #03: Choosing the Lowest Bid
Just as contractors prioritize smart investments like
When evaluating design-build firms, it can be tempting to opt for the lowest bid to save money. However, if an offer is significantly lower compared to all the others, it is likely that the contractor is:
- Keeping some costs hidden
- Not adept enough when it comes to budgeting or estimating a renovation project
- Planning to cut corners to save money
While cheap doesn’t always translate to inferior work, often, such is the case. Do your research and compare your options so you know you are working with the best people available. Some ways contractors cut corners is to use cheaper inferior materials, using unskilled sub-contractors, etc. For instance, roofing contractors might install second-grade shingles, not use enough nails per shingle, not “pull” the proper permits, not have roofing insurance, not be licensed, not install sufficient ice or water barriers, and not registering warranties.
Choosing who you work with is a massive decision, so it’s something you should never leave to chance. Also, ensure you work with a company with an excellent track record. Set aside time to check reviews, testimonials, and portfolios so you have a little insight into what your prospects are capable of.
Home Renovation Mistake #04: Underestimating Costs
Underestimating costs is hands down one of the biggest renovation mistakes many homeowners make. Even if you do some research, there will always be costs you can’t anticipate. This is especially true if you are renovating your house for the first time.
Never get caught in a financial bind. Figure out the amount you are willing to invest in the renovation project. You can also talk to a professional to assess if what you hope to achieve is possible within the budget you have set. As a general rule of thumb, never start a renovation project until you know how much the approximate cost is and if you can afford it.
Final Thoughts
A home renovation job can run smoothly if you avoid as many mistakes as you possibly can. Doing so can also help ensure you will not only enjoy your newly renovated home but the renovation process as well.
Author Bio: Rachel Porter is the content specialist for Custom Contractors Insurance, LLC, an Arizona roofing and contractors insurance company. When not writing, she enjoys reading and mountain biking with her friends.
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