Top 10 Things You Wish You Knew Before Starting a Home Renovation

Renovating your home? Exciting—but it can be full of unexpected twists. These top tips from seasoned renovators will help you avoid common pitfalls and make your project run smoothly. Let’s dive into what you really need to know!

1. Double Your Budget, Triple Your Timeline

• Renovations always co st more and take longer than expected. Plan ahead by doubling your budget and tripling your timeline to prevent stress later.

2. Get Everything on Site Before Starting

• Avoid delays by making sure every material, from appliances to fixtures, is delivered and on-site before you begin the demo. Supply chain delays can easily throw off your schedule.

3. Plan for Dust—It Gets Everywhere

• Drywall and renovation dust spread like wildfire. Seal off rooms with plastic sheeting and use negative pressure fans to control the mess.

4. Expect the Unexpected

• Surprises are guaranteed during renovations. From hidden water damage to outdated wiring, always budget 20-25% extra for unanticipated problems.

5. Multiple Trips to Home Depot are Inevitable

• No matter how well you plan, you’ll likely make 1-3 trips a day to the hardware store. Save time by making lists and checking them twice!

6. DIY Can Turn Into DI-Why

• If you’re doing the work yourself, be realistic about your skills and time. Tackling big projects solo can turn a "two-week" job into a two-year saga. Know when to call in the pros.
  

7. Clear, Detailed Contracts Save Headaches

• Get every detail in writing—from grout colors to cabinet placement. Changes mid-project can be costly and frustrating if they weren’t agreed upon upfront.

8. Weekly Contractor Meetings Are Key

• Regular meetings with your contractors keep everyone on the same page and help prevent miscommunications or delays. Bring coffee—it can go a long way in ensuring smoother progress!

9. Prepare for Living in Chaos

• If you’re staying in the house during renovations, create a functional space to live in. Set up a temporary kitchen and bathroom, or consider renting a space to escape the mess.

10. Don’t Skimp on the Important Stuff

• Spend more on things that can’t be easily replaced, like plumbing, insulation, and structural work. These upgrades provide long-term benefits, unlike cosmetic finishes you can swap later.

Ready to renovate? Keep these tips in mind, and you’ll survive your home project with fewer headaches and maybe even a bit of sanity intact!