5 renovation mistakes you’re probably making (and how to avoid them) September 9, 2024 • Jason Charles
Renovating can be exciting, but it’s easy to make mistakes that cost you time, money, and a whole lot of headaches. Here are five common renovation mistakes—and how you can avoid them.
1. Skipping the planning phase
Rushing into a renovation without a clear plan is a recipe for disaster. Without a detailed roadmap, you’ll face costly surprises and delays. Solution: Spend time upfront planning your project, outlining a clear vision, and making sure it aligns with your budget.
2. Not setting a realistic budget
Many people underestimate the true cost of renovations. This leads to budget blowouts that can derail the entire project. Solution: Include a buffer in your budget for unexpected expenses—usually around 10-15% of the total cost.
3. Choosing the cheapest contractor
It’s tempting to go with the lowest quote, but cheap doesn’t always mean good. You could end up paying for shoddy work down the line. Solution: Choose a contractor based on quality, reputation, and experience, not just price.
4. Ignoring permits and approvals
It’s tempting to go with the lowest quote, but cheap doesn’t always mean good. You could end up paying for shoddy work down the line. Solution: Choose a contractor based on quality, reputation, and experience, not just price.
5. Changing plans mid-project
Constant changes during the renovation process lead to delays and extra costs. Solution: Finalize your decisions before the project starts and stick to the plan to avoid unnecessary disruptions.
By avoiding these common renovation mistakes, you can ensure your project stays on track, within budget, and stress-free!