Renovating a house is not something you can take lightly. Whether it is your current abode or a separate project you’re working on, there are many aspects to keep in mind. Your dreams can quickly transform into nightmares with only a few wrong moves.
This is particularly the case if this is the first renovation project you’ve decided to take on. Most rookies will encounter various problems that can eat into their time, resources, and budget.
To limit issues like this cropping up, it’s important to know what to watch out for with a home renovation. Here are some common mistakes to avoid.
Not putting in the research
Research, particularly if you are purchasing a property to renovate, is a necessity. Even those with decades of experience in the renovation game will do their due diligence and research on every potential property.
Simply put, ‘buying blind’ is one of the last things you want to do. This could lead to you splashing out on the wrong property. Instead of it being a profitable venture, it might turn into a money pit you wish you hadn’t taken on.
A
property survey is essential before any purchase. This can help bring up potential defects, structural problems, and hidden dangers, the types you don’t want to deal with during a renovation project.
Failing to store away your possessions
If you’re going to be knocking down walls, installing new kitchen cabinets, laying new floor, etc. the last thing you want is for your possessions to remain in your home. Yes, you could move these to a different area of your home, but you may need to do this multiple times – and it can also eat into the limited habitable space you have during the renovation.
Not sticking to a budget
A house renovation requires a set budget. Without a budget in place, this can lead to a lot of unnecessary spending. It might only be a few dollars here and there, but it can soon add up. Suddenly, you are spending thousands more than you should be for the renovation.
Okay, plans can change, and unexpected expenses will often lead to projects going overbudget. Nevertheless, a budget helps to maintain a lid on costs.
Going with the cheapest option
So you’re on a budget. This doesn’t mean you should start cutting corners and opting for the cheapest available options. As well as being applicable for materials and tools, this is particularly pertinent
when hiring builders.
Yes, it can be tempting to go with a builder that provides the cheapest quote. The problem is this will likely bite you later on. The work could end up being substandard or it may lead to extensive project delays.