Ten mistakes to avoid when planning a remodel or new build.
So you’ve decided to take the leap and commence your journey in making your dream home a reality. You’ve got your Pinterest boards, magazine clippings, and paint swatches ready to get started. However, with any new project, big and small, there are always hiccups that come along. Mistakes can often push back your timeline adding unnecessary stress to a process that should be fun! Below you will find the top 10 mistakes homeowners make when embarking the remodeling their homes or starting a new build.
Itemizing a bid helps you, the client, know exactly what work will be done, what material will be used, and how much is quoted for labor. Itemization also can help catch mistakes and compare quotes side by side by various vendors. If you see something you don’t understand, it lends itself to questions and conversation so that you are more in the loop of what is going on.
We know the excitement of getting a remodel moving and shaking but sometimes things come up that weren’t expected and need specialized attention. Although some things may not pose a problem immediately, it will save you time and money, in the long run, to do it right the first time.
To elaborate on mistake #2, “doing the easy fix instead of the RIGHT fix,” you never know what could get uncovered. Perhaps faulty pipes can potentially create a mold problem. Outdated electrical wires can pose a fire hazard. Remediation may be necessary. Budgeting 20% more will give you the flexibility to make sure the project moves forward seamlessly.
It may shock you, but contractors, project managers, and designers aren’t mind readers. But one thing they are is eager to help you make YOUR dream home a reality. Inspo boards, pictures, paint swabs, and more are great ways to share your vision with your project team. Communication is key. Painting your ideal home picture makes for success!
What questions do you have? This is your dream home we are talking about. Ask, ask away! The more you know, the more confident you will feel about the process and decisions made about your home. One great question is, “What is your estimated timeline for a project like this one?” More on how to communicate with your contractor in our next blog.
Time is money and efficient scheduling ensures that your project is completed as smoothly and quickly without compromising quality. The last thing you want is the electrician turning off lights when the plumber needs them to work. Some contractors are great with managing a project and scheduling while others focus more on the work being done. A great way to ensure your project is scheduled just right is to hire a project management company.
“You get what you pay for.” We have all experienced this before. The same goes for materials you choose to remodel your home. Although you may save money going with the cheaper stuff, it will be more expensive in the long run than the higher quality material with the higher price tag. Cheap materials break down faster, require more maintenance, and often aren’t as pretty. Don’t go the easy route; get the right way.
Yes, we all want a beautiful home that we can marvel at daily. However, there are times when you MUST pick functionality over the perfect aesthetic. This doesn’t mean you need to pick ugly in no way, shape, or form, but to have the home that you love to look at AND are comfortable living in, one must be flexible on the aesthetics and design.
Yikes! Must we elaborate? We know some may think doing their own demolition is an easy way to save a few bucks on a remodel, but we highly discourage this. You never know what is behind a wall. Not to mention which wall is weight-bearing. Results can be catastrophic to the project and your health and safety. ALWAYS hire a professional.
As referenced before, skimping in some areas may feel like it saves you time and money, but once again, it doesn't. See the theme here? Getting caught making renovations without a permit may require you to remove or demolish your brand-new build costing you more time and money. Not to mention the safety aspect. You want to live in a home where you feel safe. Permitting your home requires a city inspector to verify that your contractor's work is legit. It will allow you to sleep well at night assured your home is safe.
Did we leave any mistakes to avoid that should be included? Please feel free to comment and share your experience.
