If you’ve been saving up for and dreaming about your next remodeling project, you’re in for a real treat. Home renovations are exciting! But, with all the time, money, and energy you’ll spend getting them done, you’ll want to follow the right process so you’re completely happy with the result for years to come. Here are six common remodeling mistakes to avoid along the way …
#1 – Inadequate planning
Any kind of renovation project takes planning, whether it’s a large one like a whole house remodel, or a simple bathroom upgrade. In general, the more planning that happens before the project even starts, the more satisfied you will be with the final result.
It’s a known fact that surprises and changes do come up during almost every remodeling venture. But, they don’t have to wreck your budget or your schedule if things are fully planned out in advance. Save yourself time, money, and headaches by thoroughly planning the entire process with your contractor in advance of your project’s start date.
#2 – Failing to research all possible options
When a homeowner is not completely satisfied with the finished product, it often stems from not knowing all the options available to them before they made their own design choices. Maybe they see their neighbor’s new kitchen complete with custom cabinets designed perfectly to fit the space and the homeowner’s needs. “Why didn’t we get that?” is a common regret expressed when you see a material option that you weren’t even aware of during your own renovation project.
The best way to avoid this mistake is to take plenty of time during the design process to research various materials, fixtures, and designs. Once you’ve “seen it all”, then you can bring your favorites to your builder and make sure they’ll fit with the project at hand.
#3 – Underestimating remodeling costs
The last thing you want to do is embark on an exciting renovation project and then find out that you don’t have enough money to finish it. How do you avoid this remodeling mistake? Planning! If it seems like advance planning is the answer to almost everything, you’re right!
Very few remodeling projects go entirely to plan. When a project starts, there are often unforeseen obstacles that arise, simply because they weren’t visible to the person who gave you the remodeling quote. For example, tearing a wall down could reveal faulty plumbing or wiring that needs to be replaced. Or, a national event, like COVID-19 in 2020, could cause shortages for certain materials, forcing you to make a different choice which may be more expensive than what you had planned. The best way to beat this possible problem is by planning your remodeling budget to be about 20% less than the overall amount you can spend. That way, you have money saved for contingencies and when they come up, your project won’t get stalled.
#4 – Not hiring a professional remodeler
Many handy homeowners make the mistake of thinking they can do their own remodeling. While it’s true that they could handle some DIY projects, more extensive renovations usually require the help of a professional. Do your research to find the best remodeling team and then let them do the work. Sure, you’ll pay more upfront for the project. However, you’re likely to save time and money in the long run with fewer mistakes and faster project completion.
#5 – Picking the wrong professional
Unfortunately, not every building professional has your best interests at heart. Before you hire a remodeling company, do your homework. Talk to friends, neighbors, and anyone else you know in your area who have had renovations done recently. They can share their recommendations for the best remodeling company in your area. You can also check online review sites like Google and Yelp, professional sites like Houzz, and even the company’s online portfolio or in-house showroom. By doing all of this research, you’ll be more likely to find the perfect remodeling team to work with.
#6 – Not enlisting the help of a designer
Popular TV shows like Property Brothers and Fixer Upper, combined with online idea sites like Pinterest, have empowered homeowners to act as their own designers. While these places are great sources of information and inspiration, it doesn’t necessarily mean that you should design your own remodeling. Instead, we recommend bringing your ideas to a professional designer who can help you decide what makes sense for your space, your family, and your budget. They may also be able to show you some designs that you never knew were possible. All of this can help you be more satisfied with the finished result.
If you’re ready to embark on your next remodeling venture, give us a call at (949) 861-3400. We’ll help you avoid these common remodeling mistakes and leave you with a finished product that meets or exceeds your expectations.