Remodeling a home can transform your space into your dream home. But, if you don’t plan and execute it properly, it can turn into a nightmare. Home remodeling mistakes are easy to make, especially for first-time homeowners who are unfamiliar with the renovation process. With so many design and construction options available, it’s easy to overspend or select materials that don’t suit the home’s style. Not having a clear plan can lead to costly blunders and delays, so it’s necessary to do your research and plan ahead.
Common Remodeling Mistakes To Avoid
When renovating a home, not all options are created equal. Some designs are overly trendy and become out of date, lowering the home’s value. Similarly, deviating far from the original design can result in a disjointed appearance. It’s also critical to consider the neighborhood the home is located and avoid over-renovation, resulting in a poor return on investment. Another common mistake is underestimating costs, leading to unexpected expenses. Finally, renovating for yourself rather than for potential buyers can result in designs that are too personal, limiting the home’s marketability.
Avoid Trendy Designs
Wendy Gonzalez, an interior and lighting designer at Modern Ornament in Livingston, NJ, advises homeowners to take trends into consideration rather than blindly following them. She advises homeowners to pick elements of a trend and then put your own spin on them.
Don’t Deviate From Your Style
Styles can be mixed and matched, but they should be similar. A modern farmhouse theme would complement a modern home, whereas a traditional style would not. Consider the home’s structure and work with a designer to create a cohesive design.
Don’t Over-Renovate
Over-renovating your home beyond what’s typical in your neighborhood may not result in a good return on investment. If you intend to sell the property later, the high-priced renovations may cause you to lose potential buyers with a smaller budget. Instead, match your remodeling plans to what homes in your area have to offer.
Avoid Budget Overruns
Raf Howery, CEO and founder of Kukun, a company that helps consumers calculate remodeling costs, advises homeowners to research and estimate costs for all materials and labor to avoid budget overruns during a remodel. The majority of budget overruns are the result of underestimating material costs and time delays, which result in higher labor costs. Homeowners should also budget 10% to 20% for unforeseen expenses.
Renovating For Your Best Future Self
If you think that a newly remodeled home will help you stay organized. When your current home is cluttered, you may be disappointed suggests Kukun. Since old habits are hard to break, you’d be better off making a smart, remodeled space for the life you have now. Not the life you hope to have in your new space.
