These days, more and more homeowners are opting to renovate their homes rather than sell and move. And who can blame them? With home prices increasing and the cost of living rising, it just makes sense to stay put and invest in your home. With the right effort, planning and investment, you can turn your current home into your dream home.

However, home renovation is often a daunting task. It can be messy, expensive, and time-consuming. That’s why we’ve put together this guide to walk you through all aspects of renovating your home so it can be a much smoother process. 

In this article, we will discuss the basics of home renovation, from the cost to creating a plan to completing your project. We will also be covering how to best prepare for a home renovation and some of the most popular home renovation trends. Lastly, we will give tips on choosing the right contractor and dealing with everyday problems during a home renovation. So whether you’re just starting or already in the middle of your renovation project, this article is for you!

The Basics Of Home Renovation

You’ve decided to finally renovate your out-of-date home and start investing in where you put down your roots. So, where do you start?

Before moving any further, it is essential to understand what you want to achieve and what exactly you’re getting yourself into. This section will cover exactly that and go over, in detail, the basics of home renovation.

What Is The Goal Of Your Renovation?

The first step in any home renovation is to decide what you want to achieve. Do you want to update the look of your home, increase its value, create a more comfortable and inviting space, or all of the above? Once you know your goals, you can begin to plan your project.

For example, if you’re hoping to sell your home in the near future, you’ll need to focus on high-return upgrades that will appeal to potential buyers. On the other hand, if you’re not planning on selling anytime soon, you will want to focus on renovations that will improve your quality of life or make a room more accessible and lively for your family. Or, you may be right in the middle where you want your project to be a sound investment while also wanting it to enhance your family life. Whatever situation you’re in will impact how you approach the project.

If you’re on a tighter budget, it may be necessary to prioritize specific projects. This is generally a good idea even if you have more cash on hand, as you want to formulate a plan to progress through. You can focus on high-use areas first, like a kitchen or bathroom, to complete before renovating a guest bedroom or dining room.

Above all else, remember to have patience! Rome wasn’t built in a day, and neither is the perfect home. With a clear plan, you can begin turning your vision into reality and create the home of your dreams.

Knowing The Cost of Renovation

Now that you’ve determined your purpose, it’s essential to understand the costs involved. Several factors can impact the price of a renovation, including the size and scope of the project, the quality of materials used, the cost of labor, and the timeline to complete the project.

It is best to consult with a professional contractor to get an accurate estimate. Any experienced contractor should be able to assess the multiple aspects of your project and provide an accurate estimate and timeline. We here at 33 North Homes have pricing estimates on our site to give you a good idea of what price range you might fall into depending on your renovation needs.

Planning Your Renovation

A lot goes into planning a renovation. Key factors include:

• Creating a realistic budget and timeline.
• Choosing the right contractor.
• Securing the necessary funding to complete the project.

Additionally, it is essential to be prepared for the disruptions a renovation can cause. Noise, debris, having crew members in an out of the home, and room closures will affect your daily routine and limit what you can do inside your home.

You will also want to ensure that your home is prepared for the project’s duration. This may include creating a secondary kitchen for you to get by if your kitchen is being remodeled. Or, if it’s a whole home renovation, you may have to move out entirely for most of the project.

Additionally, even if you’re not planning on tackling the work yourself, it’s still important to understand the basics well. After all, your home is one of your most important assets, and you want to be sure that it’s in good hands. Do some research on best practices and talk extensively with the contractor who will be completing your renovation to make sure you are on the same page with the process and work that will be happening in your home.

Preparing Your Home For Renovating

Any major home improvement project is bound to be messy and disruptive, but there are a few things you can do to minimize the hassle. First, assess your living area and decide which areas of the house can be isolated from the construction zone. If possible, block off these areas with plastic sheeting or temporary partitions. Most contractors will help with this if you’re hiring out the project.

You should also clear out as much furniture and decorations as possible, especially if work is being done on the floors or walls (which will come with most home remodeling projects). Start by decluttering each room and creating a storage plan for construction materials, tools, furniture, and other household items if you plan on doing the renovation yourself. You may need to rent a storage unit or ask friends and family for temporary storage space to ensure your belongings are protected.

If you plan on hiring a contracting company to perform the work, they’ll help in the staging process of everything. It’s best to ask the company you’re working with how involved you need to be with the prep work. Some companies will help move furniture for you while others ask you do so prior.

Finally, if you’ll be living in your home during the renovation, you’ll need to create a safe, functional living space that can accommodate your needs and the needs of any workers who will be on-site. You will also want to protect your heating and cooling system by covering vents and using filters to keep out dust and debris while work is done.

Taking these simple precautions can help ensure that your renovation goes smoothly.

Completing Your Project

There’s nothing like the feeling of finally completing a home renovation project. After months, perhaps even years, of planning, designing, and construction, it’s gratifying to see everything come together exactly as you envisioned. The process of planning and executing a full renovation or remodel can be time-consuming and potentially frustrating at times, so keep in mind the outcome and invest the time upfront in researching and planning and being patient with the process. After all, you are creating your dream space!

When it’s all said and done, the outcome of a well-executed home renovation project is always worth the effort. So if you’re considering taking on a renovation project of your own, remember that the satisfaction you’ll feel when it’s all done will make it all worthwhile.

The Cost Of Renovating Your Home

Before delving into a home renovation project, it is crucial to understand the costs involved clearly. This section will cover what to be aware of when it comes to the costs associated with your project.

Materials

The material cost is the most variable aspect of a home remodeling project, so the type of materials you choose will impact the overall cost of your renovation. Lumber, drywall, flooring, tile, paint, and other finishing touches all factor in. Do you want granite countertops and custom maple cabinets? More luxurious materials like this will significantly impact the overall cost.

Additionally, supply chain issues may impact the price of these materials, which has become more pronounced during the pandemic.

Opt for inexpensive materials like laminate countertops or linoleum flooring if you’re looking for ways to save money. However, remember that these materials may not add much resale value to your home. You can even get creative with salvaged and reused items if your goal is to reduce cost. 

If you’re planning on selling the house after renovating, your focus should be on creating a high-value space. Remodeling a kitchen into one that does not follow current trends and styles won’t add as much value as you may want it to. Again, this is the benefit of understanding your overall goal of the project before jumping in.

Labor

The labor cost must be a primary consideration when planning a home renovation. After all, even things that may seem like minor changes can actually require a significant amount of work. For example, painting a room might seem pretty straightforward, but it does require prep work which can be time-consuming and labor-intensive. And if you’re planning something more major, like replacing your kitchen cabinets or gutting your bathroom, the labor cost will be even higher since it’s a longer project.

Of course, you could try tackling the project yourself to save money; many homeowners do. But unless you’re an experienced contractor, you’ll likely spend more on repairs and replacements in the long run. In the end, it’s often better to leave the job to the professionals. Not only will they be able to do it more quickly and efficiently, but they’ll also have the necessary skills and experience to avoid costly mistakes. It’s important to find a highly rated contractor you can trust to bring high-quality work and complete your project efficiently and on time.

Time

Any major home renovation will take time, effort, and money. Whether you’re planning a total gut job or want to refresh a few rooms, it’s essential to have a clear sense of how much time the project will take from start to finish. This is, after all, your home, and you will have to be without certain sections of it for an extended period of time. Time is a valuable resource, so you want to be as efficient as you can be with it, with clear expectations regarding timelines.

Cosmetic Projects

A simple cosmetic renovation is the shortest timeline you can expect. For example, if you’re just painting the walls or replacing the hardware in your kitchen, you can probably complete the project in a weekend or two. 

Midrange Projects

A medium-sized project such as a kitchen renovation can take several weeks to a few months to complete, depending on the intricacies involved. The majority of home projects will most likely fall into this category, and the length will depend on the project scope, such as plumbing or electrical upgrades, reconfiguration of walls, or more.

In fact, half of the projects we do around the Atlanta area revolve around renovating the kitchen. So here at 33 North Homes, we generally operate off of this timeline.

Extensive Projects

Whole home renovations and additions will take the longest, usually several months up to a year or more. This includes adding a section onto a house for added space or whole living space remodels and improvements. Combining several projects at once will also add to the time cost of the renovation, like completing an entire basement renovation while upgrading a primary bathroom. Although it may extend the project’s overall timeline, you are knocking out multiple items on your to-do list at once.

It’s important to be realistic with your expectations regarding timelines and clearly set goals for your project. Discuss the proposed timeline with them if you’re planning on hiring a contracting company to help with your home.

Creating A Plan For Your Home Renovation

This section will cover what you need to know to create a rock-solid plan of action to bring your new home from just an idea to real life.

Creating A Budget

A home renovation can be an expensive undertaking. But with careful planning and a realistic budget, you can have well-formed expectations. The first step is to prioritize your needs and wants. Are you planning to gut the kitchen and start from scratch? Or are you just looking to update the appliances and countertops? Whether you’re aiming for a complete overhaul or just a few cosmetic changes, you must have a clear vision for your project to know what to budget for.

Once you’ve settled on your goals, it’s time to start crunching numbers. Begin by evaluating the scope of the work and estimating the cost of materials and labor if you plan on managing the project yourself. 

If you’re working with a contractor, get an estimate covering all aspects of the job. Many of the clients we work with here in Atlanta love the overall project’s design phase. This is when we work together to create a design of your new space, which also gives us a more accurate project budget. You’ll be able to see what your new space will look like before committing to the entire project.

Not all Atlanta remodeling contractors have the same payment schedule, so be sure to inquire about that.

Finally, consider how much you want to spend realistically. Even though we’ve been helping Atlanta residents remodel their homes for 15+ years, we sometimes see unexpected issues arise. This is especially true when homeowners attempt to perform the renovation project themselves. These homeowners go in with a budget that works if everything goes as planned. But if this is their first project, that budget can quickly get blown out of the water.

With careful planning and a realistic approach, you can make your home renovation dreams a reality.

Choosing the Right Time for Renovation

One of the most common questions we’re asked is, “when is the best time to renovate my home?” The short answer is: it depends. There are a few factors to consider when deciding whether or not to renovate, and timing is just one of them. Here are a few things to remember as you weigh your options.

Spring and Summer Renovations

Spring or summer is the best time to tackle a larger project for many people, especially here in Atlanta. Some of our clients leave on vacation while we’re updating their house, so choosing this time of year makes sense for them. 

If it’s a minor project and you plan on doing it yourself, this is generally still the best time to tackle the project. 

Many clients we work with want to use the winter holidays to show off their new space, so getting the project started during spring and summer is best for them.

Fall and Winter Renovations

Although spring and summer are the most popular times for renovation projects, there are also benefits to renovating in the fall or winter. Since the demand for renovation projects is not as high, most contractors have shorter lead times before starting the project. A contracting company may be unable to start your project for months if you call during the busy season. However, they may be able to begin the project in a couple of weeks if you call during the fall and especially winter. 

If you plan on renovating yourself, some construction projects (like exterior painting) can be easier in cooler weather. Unlike landscaping companies, we remodeling companies work year-round since Atlanta doesn’t really have to deal with inclement weather. Ultimately, the best time for a home renovation is whichever time works best for you and your family.

You also want to think about your schedule. If you have school-age children, they might be home more over the summer. This can play a factor. Do you need your space completed by a specific time, maybe before the holidays? Understanding how the remodel plays into your schedule is essential.

There’s no hard and fast rule for the best time to renovate. Ultimately, it comes down to your circumstances. Considering your budget, schedule, and needs, you should be able to decide when to renovate your home.

Deciding On A Theme Or Style For Your Renovation

People usually remodel their homes because a space feels outdated or doesn’t function as they want it to.

You’ll want to keep some questions in mind when deciding on the overarching theme for your home. What overall aesthetic are you going for? Will the rooms flow together, or will each space have its own unique style? Fortunately, there are a few key ways to narrow your options and find the perfect theme or style for your home. 

To begin, take a look at your existing furnishing and décor. Do you have any pieces that you absolutely love and want to keep? If so, what do they have in common? Is it a particular color scheme, period style, or level of formality? Once you’ve identified some recurrent themes, you can start to get an idea of the direction you want to go in. Think about how you want the space to feel.

Covering and Protecting Furnishings and Flooring

If you plan on tackling your project on your own, taking some basic precautions before starting any project is important. 

First, move any furniture and decorations out of the way. If that’s not possible or unnecessary, cover them with drop cloths or plastic sheeting. For hardwood floors, put down rosin paper or cardboard mats to prevent scratches.

Finally, be sure to wear appropriate clothing: closed-toe shoes (with shoe covers) and old clothes that you don’t mind getting paint splatter on. These simple steps can minimize the risk of damage and keep your home looking its best.

Moving Out During the Renovation

Home renovations can be a messy and disruptive process. So for more extensive remodels and renovations, we often advise homeowners to move out while work is being done. This way, you can avoid the daily inconveniences of living in a construction zone. Plus, it’s an excellent opportunity to take a break from your usual routine and maybe even treat yourself to a mini vacation! Just be sure to plan and give yourself plenty of time to find temporary housing.

The Most Popular Home Renovation Trends

Now that we’ve covered the basics and created a plan, it’s time to get into the fun stuff, the styles and trends common in today’s home remodeling that will bring your home to life!

Contemporary

One of the most popular styles right now is contemporary design, a timeless look that always seems to be in style. This clean, sleek style is perfect for anyone who wants a modern look for their home. Clean lines and minimalistic décor characterize the contemporary style. This look can be achieved by painting walls in neutral colors and incorporating materials like glass, metal, and concrete into the design.

Farmhouse

Farmhouse style creates a warm and cozy feeling in your home. It takes cues from country living, focusing on natural materials and rustic accents. This style hones in on creating a welcoming atmosphere using wood, stone, and warmer natural colors like red, yellow, and green. This look can be achieved in several ways, from adding a few rustic touches to your decor to undertaking a full-blown renovation that features exposed beams and barn-style doors.

Industrial

This trend is all about creating a space with a raw, factory-inspired look. Many homeowners opt for exposed brick walls, duct work, concrete floors, and metal fixtures and beams to achieve this look. These elements give a room an edgy and urban feel while maintaining a warm and welcoming vibe. The key to achieving this look is to balance rough and polished surfaces. For example, a distressed wood floor can be paired with a sleek metal chandelier, or an exposed brick wall can be softened with a plush area rug. There is a lot of creative potential with this style.

Minimalist

These days, more and more homeowners are opting for a minimalist style for their home renovation projects. The idea is to create a space that is both stylish and functional. This clean and uncluttered look has its roots in Scandinavian design, and it’s characterized by simple lines, neutral colors, and a focus on function over form. One of the benefits of this style is that it can make small spaces appear bigger and more open. Additionally, it can be easier to keep a minimalist home clean and organized.

Green

“Green” designs have become increasingly popular in recent years. This approach combines traditional aesthetics with environmentally friendly features. Homebuyers are increasingly interested in properties that are eco-friendly and energy-efficient. Consider incorporating green features such as solar panels, LED lighting, energy-efficient appliances, and low-flow fixtures if you’re planning a renovation. You can create a stylish and sustainable living space by incorporating green principles into your home renovation project.

Choosing The Right Contractor For Your Home Renovation

Any major home renovation is a big undertaking, requiring both time and money. We love it when people use their homes to express their own personalities! If you’re planning a home renovation, finding a reputable contractor who can help you bring your vision to life is essential. With so many contractors around the Atlanta Metro area, how do you choose the right one for your project? Here are a few things to keep in mind.

What to Expect From Your Contractor

A good contractor will have extensive experience in the type of work you’re looking to have done and will be able to provide you with a portfolio of previous projects that showcase their skills. They should also be able to give you an estimate of the scope and cost of your project and should be open to discussing any concerns or questions you may have. Finally, choosing a contractor you feel comfortable working with is important, since you’ll spend a lot of time together over your renovation.

Choosing the Right Contractor

Take the time to research their business. The contractor you work with should be reputable, professional, and provide an excellent experience for the customer. There should be a well-laid-out process, and they should offer a warranty or guarantee. Take a look here at the process you can expect when working with 33 North Homes.

Also, trust your gut when choosing the right contracting company for you. The idiom, “you get what you pay for” is especially true in the remodeling space. Often, homeowners choose the cheapest company to work with even though the initial communication is poor, hoping the communication gets better when the project begins. In our experience, this is rarely the case with all companies, not just contractors.

What Should I Renovate In My Home?

It can be overwhelming to focus on a simple aspect of your home renovation. There are designs you may want, but there are aspects of functionality that may need to be focused on first. This section will cover the different areas and popular upgrades you can make in your home.

To begin figuring out what projects to tackle, we suggest walking around the house and seeing what is outdated. This is often the kitchen or primary bathroom since these are used often. When determining what trends are in, consider looking on Pinterest or our gallery page.

Second, consider how you use your home from a functional standpoint. It may be time to upgrade if you enjoy baths, but your primary bathroom only has a shower. Also, if you moved into your home before having children, adding a mudroom for when they come in will help to keep your home clean.

Upgrade Your Kitchen

When a renovation comes to mind, what pops into your mind first is most likely a kitchen renovation. The kitchen is progressively becoming the heart of the home, where friends and family come together. Generally, some essential components should be considered when renovating a kitchen, such as new countertops, appliances, lighting, backsplashes, and cabinets.

One of the more popular remodeling trends in the kitchen is opening up the space. Open concept kitchens help entertain guests much easier since everyone can hang out without having to yell down the hall.

Countertops take a lot of abuse, so choosing a durable and stylish material is important. Popular choices around Atlanta for kitchen countertops include granite, quartz, and marble. Other options include wood and metal, but these can get scratched easily, so it’s not as common. They do look really good, though!

The backsplash in the kitchen helps to make everything pop. Backsplashes can be used to make your kitchen feel unique since the options are endless.

Another popular upgrade is new appliances. Many homeowners choose to replace their old refrigerator, stove, and dishwasher with new models that are more energy-efficient and stylish. Matching the aesthetic of the appliances to the room itself seems like a must in the day and age!

New lighting can make a big difference in the look and feel of a kitchen. Swapping out old fluorescent light fixtures for new pendant lights or recessed lighting can give your kitchen an updated look.

Finally, cabinets are a super popular upgrade to the kitchen. Since we’re living in a world where countertop appliances are becoming more popular, countertop space is becoming more crowded. We work with clients to understand how they use their kitchen because we install specific cabinets that will maximize storage space.

Renovate Your Bathroom

A bathroom renovation is a great way to add value to your home and make your day-to-day life more enjoyable. But where do you start? Here are a few things to keep in mind as you begin planning your renovation:

Take some time to consider your goals for the space. Are you looking to create a more functional layout? Or are you aiming for a complete style makeover?

When renovating a bathroom, we find that clients typically have something functionally wrong with the bathroom first. It may be that their shower leaks or the bathroom is way too small for their needs. Instead of fixing that singular problem, they decide it’s the perfect time to upgrade the bathroom’s aesthetic. So for bathrooms, form generally follows function.

Once you have a clear vision for your project, you can think about some popular upgrade features. For example, if you’re hoping to create a spa-like retreat, you might want to add a rainfall showerhead and a luxurious soaking tub. On the other hand, if you’re simply trying to achieve better organization, you might focus on adding storage solutions like a vanity or cabinets. No matter your goals, there are plenty of ways to give your bathroom a fresh look.

Bedroom Renovations

A bedroom is a sanctum, a refuge from the outside world; therefore, its appearance should reflect the serenity and peace you desire. If your bedroom needs a makeover, start with these tips for a total bedroom renovation that will give you the tranquil oasis you crave.

Assess your bedroom’s problem areas. Is the paint chipped or dull? Are any of the moldings cracked or water-stained? Are the floors worn or unattractive? Maybe your bedroom is just way too small, and you need to actually add an addition to your bedroom. Pinpoint which areas need attention. 

Next, decide on a color scheme. You may want to consider hiring a professional to help you with this step, as they can provide guidance on choosing colors that work well together and create the desired ambiance.

Finally, you want to focus on flooring and hardware. Hardwood floors are always a beautiful option, although they come at a higher cost. A more affordable option is luxury vinyl plank flooring, which looks similar to hardwood but is much easier (and less expensive) to install. LVP also requires less maintenance than hardwood floors. You can also have your existing floors refinished, giving them a fresh look at a fraction of the price of replacement floors. 

Lighting upgrades in the bedroom are another great option to update the overall feel. Consider swapping out that fan for recessed lighting throughout the bedroom. Skylights are another cool option that adds a ton of natural light to the bedroom.

Living Room Renovations

Similar to a bedroom, you’ll want to focus on a few key aspects when renovating a living room, as this will be the centerpiece of your home, next to your kitchen.

One popular upgrade is to install new flooring. Many homeowners opt for hardwood floors since they are easy to maintain and add a touch of elegance to the room. Hardwood floors are also easier to clean; with a living room being a high-traffic area where you will have more people coming in and out, this is important to consider. However, many other options are available, such as laminate, vinyl, and carpet. Painting the walls is another great way to give the room a fresh look without having to do a major renovation.

Lastly, if your living room has a fireplace, consider upgrading it! A new fireplace can really make your living feel super modern.

It is important to keep the room’s overall style in mind so that everything blends well together.

Basement Renovations and Finishing

If your home has a basement, you have endless possibilities with what you can do to make the space more practical or fun, depending on what state its in now.

If your basement is unfinished, consider finishing it. It’s a trendy renovation project because it adds more space to spread out in and helps increase the home value.

If the basement is finished already, or you want to do a bit more extensive of a basement finishing project, one popular option is to create a home theater. This will require soundproofing and insulation, which will enhance the cinematic effect!

If you’re planning to use the basement as additional living space, whether one of your kids wants to move downstairs or you want an in-law suite, there are a couple of things to consider. First, you’ll need an egress window since it’s required by law. Any remodeling contractor licensed to work in Georgia should know. You’ll also probably want to include a full bathroom in the scope of your project. It makes the basement that much more comfortable to use. Basement home offices are also becoming more popular since the beginning of the pandemic.

Once you have a clear idea of your goal, you can start making decisions about layout, finishes, and fixtures.

How To Get Financing For Your Home Renovation Project

There are a few different ways to budget for a renovation. The first is simply to set aside a certain amount each month.

Another option is to take out a home equity loan, where you can borrow against the value of your home. This can be a good option if you have equity in your home and can get a low-interest rate. As with any loan, it is important to remember that you will be putting your home at risk if you default on the loan. A home equity line of credit (HELOC) is another option where you can borrow against the value of your home and have the flexibility to pay back what you borrowed plus interest over time. Both options are popular since the interest rate is usually significantly lower than personal loans or credit cards.

That said, a personal loan is another option where you can borrow money from a lender and make fixed monthly payments. You could also use credit cards to finance your renovation. This can be a good option if you can get a low-interest rate, but it is important to be aware of the potential for high-interest rates and late fees if you cannot make your payments on time. Whichever method you choose, it is important to be aware of all the costs associated with your renovation so that you can make informed decisions about how to finance it.

The Top 10 Home Renovation Mistakes To Avoid

Whether you’re planning a total home remodel or just a few cosmetic upgrades, a well-executed renovation can add significantly to your home’s value. But before you start tearing down walls or ripping up carpets, you should know a few things to avoid making costly renovation mistakes.

Beginning the Renovation Without a Plan

One of the most important things before beginning any renovation is to develop a detailed plan. This plan should include everything from your budget and timeline to a comprehensive list of all the materials and finishes you’ll need. Trying to wing it without a plan is almost guaranteed to lead to overspending, delays, and subpar results. This often leads to impulse decisions and costly mistakes.

Not Budgeting Properly

Another mistake many people make is failing to consider the potential for cost overruns. Home renovations rarely go exactly as planned if you’re doing it yourself, and it’s important to have a cushion in your budget to account for unexpected expenses. If you’re working with a limited budget, be realistic about what you can realistically accomplish with the funds you have available. It’s better to do a few things well than to do too much on a shoestring budget.

Not Preparing For Disruptions

One of the most common mistakes made during home renovations is failing to properly prepare for the disruption that the work will inevitably cause. If you’re planning on doing major work, such as knocking out walls or gutting an entire room, be sure to inform your neighbors in advance so they can make arrangements accordingly. And always remember to factor in the time needed for cleanup after the job is done! These are just a few potential pitfalls that can trip up even the most experienced renovators; by avoiding them, you can ensure that your home renovation project goes off without a hitch.

Being Cheap

Don’t underestimate the importance of choosing quality materials and hiring experienced contractors. Sure, it might cost a little more upfront, but in the long run, it will save you time and money by ensuring that the job is done right the first time. So do your research, and don’t be afraid to spend a little extra to get top-notch materials and labor. By making the investment upfront, you can ensure that your home renovation project is successful from start to finish.

Renovating More Than Necessary

It’s easy to get caught up in all the latest design trends and want to get everything done at once because, after all, that’s a huge reason you’re starting this project in the first place!

Don’t bite off more than you can chew if you’re going to do it yourself. Renovating a home can be a big undertaking, and it’s important to remember that you don’t have to do it all at once. Many of our clients renovate their homes in stages, especially if this is their first renovation project.

Not Considering Future Needs

Certain design trends or styles may seem appealing, but consider your goals and needs for your home’s future. This will help to avoid having to make even more renovations down the road or look into finding a new home. For example, a younger couple may want a stylish new kitchen and start from scratch, only to discover that they have a new baby on the way and need a more family-friendly layout.

Or, a family may add an addition to their home as an entertainment room without considering that the kids will eventually grow up and need their own space. By thinking ahead, you can avoid costly mistakes and ensure that your home will meet your needs for years to come.

Lack Of Communication With The Contractor

Often, homeowners assume their contractor will automatically know what they want, only to be disappointed with the finished product. By being clear about your vision from the outset, you can help to ensure that your contractor understands your goals and can work to make them a reality. 

In addition, it’s important to give your contractor regular feedback during the project. This way, if there are any problems or misunderstandings, they can be addressed immediately. By taking the time to communicate effectively, you can help to ensure a smooth and successful renovation.

Underestimating The Cost Of Renovation

It’s easy to look at a Pinterest board full of beautifully finished rooms and think, “I can do that for cheap!” but the reality is that even a minor renovation can quickly become expensive. 

To avoid blowing your budget if you’re doing the renovation yourself, it’s important to take the time to research what goes into your specific project. Once you have a realistic estimate of what it will take to complete your project, add 10-20% for unforeseen costs, and stick to your budget! Otherwise, you may have an unfinished project and a hefty credit card bill.

If you’re working with a contracting company, be open with them about your budget. Many homeowners are nervous that they’ll be taken advantage of if they keep their budget close to their chest. This hurts both parties since it creates a situation of poor communication. 

Not Allowing Enough Time For Completion

Many homeowners make the common mistake of not allowing enough time to complete the project. This can lead to a rushed job, resulting in subpar workmanship and an unfinished product. It can also lead to frustration for both the contractor and the homeowner. It’s important to factor in time for delays, such as weather, materials delays, or unexpected home problems. 

For a major renovation, it’s best to allow at least six months from start to finish. This will give you plenty of time to finish the job without feeling rushed.

Sacrificing Functionality For Style

It’s tempting when renovating to focus on style and design at the expense of functionality. After all, the visible aspects of the renovation will ultimately wow your guests and increase your home’s value. But if you’re not careful, you can end up with a stylish home that doesn’t function as you need. 

For example, tearing down a wall to create an open concept floorplan might make your home feel more spacious and modern. However, you could have serious structural problems if the wall was load-bearing. So before you start planning your dream renovation, be sure to consult with a professional who can help you strike the right balance between form and function. Otherwise, you might end up sacrificing the livability of your home in favor of its curb appeal.

Wrapping Up The Guide

Whether you’re looking to do a full-scale renovation or simply want to update your home’s look with a few new features, these tips in our Definitive Guide To Home Renovation will help you get started and avoid some of the most common mistakes. 

If you need more advice or want to talk to an expert about your specific project, don’t hesitate to contact us here at 33 North Homes for a consultation. We aim to help you with every step to ensure your home renovation goes as smoothly as possible.