HOME RENOVATION MISTAKES YOU’LL MAKE (AND HOW TO AVOID THEM):

Home renovations are known for their surprises. Whether it’s a delay in schedule, unforeseen expense or another situation, mistakes are bound to happen. Even the most well thought-out renovations include some areas that are overlooked. If you’re planning a kitchen remodel, bathroom upgrade or another project, take notice. A little extra planning can help to avoid the most common home renovation mistakes.

In this blog, our home renovation experts share their secrets for avoiding mistakes in your next remodelling project.

1. You set an unrealistic budget

If a contractor promises you $40,000 worth of kitchen upgrades for only $10,000, be warned. If a price sounds too good to be true, it likely is. Avoid contractors who preach unrealistic prices. If you can’t afford to take on a home renovation at its true cost, hold off until you can. In order to get the biggest return on your remodel, it’s important to undertake the project properly and fully. Don’t skimp on the budget just to get the project done. You never know what will happen when you start tearing up walls and floors. You need to ensure your budget accounts for unexpected surprises on top of the initial plan.

2. You try to tackle it yourself

While some home renovations can be completed yourself, some are best left to professionals. Smaller projects like painting, hardware upgrades and appliance purchases are easy for home-owners. But anything that involves plumbing, electricity and roofing should be completed by a skilled home renovation expert. The challenge of going it alone? Your own safety along with dangerous risks to your home, budget and family.

3. Hiring an unprofessional contractor

If you’re selecting contractors based on price alone, you may run into hurdles. When a large investment is at stake, you want to ensure your home renovation is completed on time and on budget. That’s why it’s essential to hire a reputable contractor. Be sure to ask him/her for references before you sign. You should also ensure they’re licensed and equipped with insurance. For your own peace of mind, ensure you agree on their payment schedule, too.

4. Neglecting permits

Permits are not exciting. Unfortunately, they’re essential in many home renovations. Ensure you clear with your contractor who is responsible for permits. Without them, the city might delay work, demand fines or reverse what’s been completed. Plus, if future buyers find out that work was complete without a permit, they could negotiate a lower price on your overall sale.

5. Ignoring insurance

Before you even lift a hammer, contact your home insurance provider. It’s essential that you understand how your home renovation plans will impact your premium. Not all home renovations will negate higher insurance, though. Some upgrades could even lower your premium. That’s why it’s essential to discuss your plans with your insurance provider before you begin to ensure you’re making a smart choice.

If you’re looking to take on your own large-scale home renovations, you might be overlooking key steps. The team at Maison Makeover will provide an expert professional opinion on the remodeling strategy that will yield you the highest reward. We work with you to do a free inspection and provide a full report of our recommendations. This includes a quote and the new estimated market value of your home. Contact us to request a complementary home makeover audit.