Remodling can be a major source of uncertainty and anxiety for many homeowners, especially if it's their first project. Finding the right contractor to partner with isn't always as easy as picking up the phone. Luckily, much of this anxiety and uncertainty can be mitigated by having a simple plan and knowing what common remodeling mistakes to avoid. This list includes a few of those mistakes you should steer clear of to ensure a successful remodeling experience.
KEEPING YOUR BUDGET A SECRET
Many homeowners hesitate to their remodeling budget until after receiving an estimate. In many cases, they may not want to reveal their budget at all. There is a fear that if your contractor knows how much you are willing to spend, they will give you a proposal at that number, even if they're able to get the job done for less. But homeowners, more often than not, get estimates that exceed expectations by 50-100%! Why!?!
Unfortunately, media exposure, unreliable sources, and lowballing have left homeowners with unrealistic expectations. Sure, sources like Pinterest, HGTV, youtube, and many more can be a great source of inspiration but many times these sources don't provide reliable figures or may be outdated. This leads homeowners to thinking that their remodel will cost much less than actuality.
We recommend being transparent about your budget from the beginning and working with your contractor to get the most remodel out of your budget. A contractor who knows your budget can advise you on the best areas to cut costs, the best areas to splurge, and any necessary trade-offs. Open and transparent communication means you know what to expect and can set realistic expecations for the finished project.
NOT ENOUGH PRE-PLANNING
If you're planning on making subtle changes to your kitchen or bathroom, then maybe spending weeks or even months planning isn't quite the right thing for you. But if you're planning on taking on completely renovating your space, then you shouldn't neglect the necessity of a solid plan. Having a solid plan for a project is just as much your responsibility as it is your contractors. A good contractor will take the time to understand your goals, budget and expectations prior to beginning construction.
Neglecting the planning process and rushing into construction can quickly knock a project right off its rails. Too often, homeowners find themselves in the frustrating and uncomfortable poistion of changing directions multiple times during the construction process. These changes, in turn, can delay the completion of your project and drive up your expenses. To avoid this, talk to your contractor! Work with them to come up with a detailed plan that you feel confident in and ask plenty of questions along the way.
NOT PLANNING AHEAD
This may seem like it ties into the previous common mistake, but we are referring to a different part of the process, time. Many homeowners start calling contractors before they've even started putting together a plan. Yup, we mean an architectural plan. We frequently have homeowners reach out to us asking to start a project as soon as possible without having plans or permits ready. More often than not, these homeowners underestimate the time it will take to develop plans and acquire permits from their local jurisdiction.
In most cases, it takes a few weeks to get plans that are ready to submit to the city for approval. Other times, this process can be lengthened by the need for structural plans and engineering. Many homeowners can get easily discouraged by the permitting process which can sometimes span into months. Beyond the planning and permitting process, a good contractor is normally booked out a couple months in advance which means further delay!
Ultimately, we recommend taking a couple of months for the preconstruction process. You'll be able to move slowly and methodically though the process, ensuring that you're confident before construction even begins. By allowing yourself some planning time, you'll also be giving yourself the chance to work with a contractor you're excited about and not just one who's available.
CHOOSING CONTRACTORS BASED ON PRICE
The traditional remodeling process, design-bid-build, encourages homeowners to choose contrators based on price. During this process, plans or ideas are sent to multiple contractors for bidding and homeowners typically choose the contractor who gives them the lowest estimate/bid. Although cost is a very important factor in remodeling, it should not be the main reason why you choose a contractor.
Instead of choosing a contractor solely on cost, look for things such as quality of craftsmanship, attention to detail, communication skills, and client experience to guide your decision. Remodeling your home is one of the biggest investments you'll ever make and you'll be, very literally, living with the result everyday. Choose the contractor you can trust, even if they cost a bit more.
THINKING ABOUT ONLY THE FINANCIAL ROI
"How much value will this remodel bring to my home?" Is probably one of the first questions you asked yourself, and probably a question you plan on asking your contractor. While it's smart to consider the financial ROI, return on investment, you shouldn't forget about the emotional day-to-day benefits of a newly remodeled space.
Nearly a third of homeowners reported having a healthier lifestyle after renovating their kitchens, according to a study conducted by HOUZZ. The same study found that about half of respondents stated that socializing and entertaining were the top activities happening in their kitchen after their remodels. Modernizing your home can bring friends and family together, encourage a healthier lifestyle and much more.
However, there is an exception to this: if you plan on selling your home in the foreseeable future, then remodeling to maximize financial ROI makes the most sense. This particular piece of advice is geared more towards homeowners who are remodeling and planning on staying in their home for many years to come.
Avoiding these common remodeling mistakes can greatly improve your experience and project satisfaction. Hopefully this post helps give you more confidence in tackling your own remodeling journey; just be sure to plan ahead!
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