Common Home Renovation Mistakes
Whether you are doing a home décor upgrade or a complete bathroom renovation, sticking to your budget is key to success. Mistakes can cost you dearly, so take the time to plan carefully and avoid the following common mistakes.
Create a realistic budget
Before budgeting for a remodeling project, research the items and services you'll need. Then, add 20% to your estimated costs. You will need this cash cushion to absorb any unforeseen costs that are bound to crop up.
Get bids from multiple contractors
It may seem like a hassle, but be sure to get itemized bids from at least three professional Vancouver-area contractors. It's critical to compare costs before awarding the job. Otherwise, you might end up going over budget.
Don’t price yourself out of the market
One important consideration when you're planning to remodel your home is the average value of other homes in your neighborhood. It is possible to recoup some of your remodeling costs when you sell your home, but not if it makes your house the most expensive one on the block.
Be open to reasonable trade-offs
Try to be flexible when it comes to substitutions. For example, that great shower enclosure you saw on sale last month may now be out of your reach at full price. Be prepared to settle for the next reasonable alternative.
Bypass the cute for the classic
Rather than falling for that cute pink clawfoot bathtub and matching tile, think ahead. The time will come when you want to sell your home, and pink is an acquired taste. Instead, choose neutral tones. You can always add accents in your favorite colors.
Prioritize function over form
Say you always wanted a pull-out, compact dishwasher in your kitchen because it looks sleek and contemporary. However, if you have a big family, that dishwasher just isn't big enough for all the dishes you go through every day. Choose appliances and cupboards that will function best for your family.
Don’t skimp on materials costs
Quality materials tend to last longer, look better, and offer more value than cheap imitations. That low-cost paint from the hardware store may turn out to be anything but a bargain when it takes three coats to get a decent result. Instead, splurge on the more expensive one-coat paint to save time and money.
Stay the course
Stick to your original plan if you want to avoid cost overruns. For example, a last-minute decision to add a soaking tub to your new bathroom will cost you. The expense of changing the plumbing, flooring, and configuration of other fixtures to accommodate a separate tub will add up quickly.
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