Common Renovation Mistakes

Whether you’re a seasoned home renovator or it’s your first time, there are many mistakes that you should actively avoid when starting out on a new project.

Here are some key home renovation blunders that you should avoid to ensure that your time and money are used effectively.

Underestimating material and labour costs for the reno

Failing to research material and labour costs is one of the biggest mistakes you can make when it comes to property renovation. Remember to factor in any indirect renovation costs including local council fees, professional fees, finance repayments, rental payments (if you have to move out during the renovation), and so on.

Your builder will be able to give you some idea of the standard costs in your area.

Not setting yourself a remodel project timeline

While a lot of people emphasise the importance of budgeting (which is important, of course), many forget to create a project timeline. Estimate how long each task will take and come up with a project completion date. If you don’t set yourself a deadline, you may never finish.

Going overboard with DIY tasks

There are some tasks you can do yourself but there are also certain things that you shouldn’t attempt. When it comes to more complex work such as plumbing, carpentry, or electrical you should always enlist the services of an experienced, fully licensed professional.

Renovating the wrong areas/rooms

When planning out your renovation project, focus your energy (and money) on the areas that are most frequently used. Generally, you should focus the majority of your budget on areas like the master bedroom, the living room and the kitchen.

Relocating electrical and plumbing

Moving around your electricals and plumbing can add significant costs. So if it’s possible to work around the existing pipes and electrical systems, you should try to leave them in the same location to avoid unnecessary expenses.

Planning and completing a home renovation project can be time-consuming, costly, and emotionally draining, especially if it’s your first time. So it’s worth doing a lot of research before you get started to avoid many of the common mistakes many make on the road to their dream home.

Helpful Renovation Tip - enlist the services of an experienced building or home renovation specialist they have ironed out all the speed bumps and has years of industry knowledge. Often they will be able to source materials at a better price than you too.