15 Home Renovation Mistakes Homeowners Avoid
Home renovation projects can take a big bite out of your budget and your time if it’s not done correctly. Here are 15 of the most common home renovations mistakes to avoid.
1.Underestimating costs
Renovations invariably cost more than expected. Build-in an extra 20% to your budget to be better prepared for any surprises.
2. Starting renovations too soon
If possible, live in your house for a while before making any plans to overhaul.
3. Not hiring a designer/draftsman
Designers, draftsman, and architects typically either charge by the hour or take a percentage of the overall job (say, 10 percent)—a small sum compared to your total payout. And they can help with an amazing draft for your home.
4. Not asking for references
Reach out to general contractors for an architect’s references, and vice-versa.
5. Pretending to understand a design scheme
Most people can’t read blueprints. Instead of eyeballing it, layout a room or building or garden for real.
6. Making too many changes along the way
Changes that seem simple to you may require a lot of work on the back end, so be sure you check with your designer or builder on even slight adjustments. Even moving a light switch a few feet can cost $1,500.
7. Not setting up a timeline
Work with your contractor to put together a list of items that need to be purchased and deadlines for making decisions.
8. Not thinking outside the box, literally
Gutters, grading, and roofs may sound boring when there are chandeliers to obsess over, but you’ve got to build a solid envelope if you want your house to hold up.
9. Sweeping interiors under the rug
On the other hand, too many times, interiors are an afterthought. Newbies often think they can do finish work themselves or throw their old couch into a new room. But if you want to love your space—and increase its value—make sure you leave room in the budget for working on interior design and décor.
10. Not knowing measurements
Once you know what size couches, tables, and sconces you need, write them down and carry that list with you always. You never know when the perfect item will jump into your path.
11. Buying giant furniture
While you’re at it, jot down your door widths, too. Make sure your new purchases can fit through the front door.
12. Spending too much on tech
Technology can be pricey and become outdated quickly. While wiring every room in your house for video might seem cool, it’s not necessarily a great investment. Your home’s next buyer is unlikely to be impressed with an aging system.
13. Working on too many rooms at once
The place where you spend the most time should really serve as the focus of your energy and investment. When the budget allows, move on to the next space.
14. Not consulting professionals
Consulting architects or designers to fine-tune your plans is invaluable in terms of spotting issues you may have overlooked. These professionals can help make your plans more functional and efficient.
15. Not consulting professionals
Consulting architects or designers to fine-tune your plans is invaluable in terms of spotting issues you may have overlooked. These professionals can help make your plans more functional and efficient.
Here are 15 tips to help you plan your home innovation better. Contact us now for any design and drafting services. This is also an opportunity to think about the application process because we have a huge amount of time to research and process the council approval for your projects, which will take so much time to implement.