Top 13 Home Renovation Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

1) Setting an Unrealistic Timeline
- construction projects can take more time than expected, often due to unforeseen obstacles
- give yourself extra time into your project schedule so you won't get stressed if things don't go exactly as planned 
- have a fall-back plan, just in case, to help minimize delays and get your renovation back on track

2) Buying Cheap Products and Materials 
- if you choose inexpensive materials, you're more likely to run into problems
- these problems could be things like wood warping, rough saw cuts, inefficient energy-wise products, etc.
- if possible, you should always go with the highest quality materials within your budget
- it is definitely worth it in the long run!

3) Having a Narrow Budget 
- if your budget means you'll be cutting corners during the renovation, it is a bad idea
- not only will the finished product fall short of what you envisioned, but doing work for cheap can result in damage to your home
- take the time to price everything out; things like materials, appliances, fixtures, flooring, etc.
- add 20 percent for unforeseen circumstances; so you have some wiggle room to make it easier if/when you have to make unexpected decisions 

4) Skipping Prep Work 
- doing the prep work beforehand will save you lots of time and headaches, and will keep you on schedule/budget
- tape off areas before painting, use drop cloths to protect your furniture, bring new flooring into the home to acclimate before you lay it, etc.

5) Taking Inaccurate Measurements 
- bad measurements lead to additional costs
- when it comes to kitchens, it is better to choose your appliances first, then arrange everything else around them
- hiring a professional to measure will cost a little but can help with additional costs down the road

6) Starting Without a Plan 
- you should do some homework to make sure you understand and have considered every part of the work
- find out what building codes you need to follow
- don't start gutting a room unless you have everything ready to put it back together
- you may want to consider hiring a contractor for the job 

7) Failing to Prepare for Mess
- if you plan to stay in the home while the renovation is happening, be prepared for it to be messy
- it will be loud, you will have workers invading your space, and there is a possibility that your home will get very dirty
- cover things with drop cloths, and try not to get anxious about the mess

8) Using Incorrect Tools
- ensure the right tools are available for the job to avoid cost over-runs
- for example, you cannot use a regular dry saw to cut ceramic tile or you will break the tiles
- there are many tool rental companies that can supply the proper tools you need at an hourly rate

9) Selecting Materials That Are Not "Green"
- your home renovation should make sense from an energy efficient and sustainability standpoint
- if possible, choose eco-friendly materials and efficient appliances
- it may cost more initially, but "green" products will stand the test of time and save you money in the long run

10) Disregarding Additional Storage Opportunities 
- it is usually a good idea to add more storage, if possible, during your home reno
- in a kitchen, a large drawer could be subdivided for additional storage, there could be a corner where a lazy susan could be added, etc.
- utility closets can be improved by adding shelving or storage bins to save space
- these added storage options could potentially boost your home's resale value

11) Neglecting Safety Measures 
- safety should be one of the first things you consider during your renovation
- all it takes is one slip to derail your plan!
- be sure to wear safety glasses when needed, where a harness when at heights, and hire an electrician to deal with any electrical wiring

12) Failing to Research Contractors or Subs 
- never hire a contractor on a whim, or choose the lowest quote without proper consideration of what the others will provide 
- check with contractors' previous clients to make sure they were satisfied
- check any online reviews they may have recieved
- make sure a detailed contract is in place before the work begins 

13) Overbuilding 
- try not to go overboard on the design and materials 
- if you "over improve" your home compared with the rest of your neighbourhood, you're unlikely to be able to recoup your reno costs when you sell your home in the future
- it is a good idea to weigh all your options, including scaling back a little if need be

If you have any questions, or concerns, during your home renovation, feel free to contact me today!

Mike Mossuto | Sales Representative | KELLER WILLIAMS COMPLETE REALTY
905-308-8333
[email protected]