Biggest Renovation Mistakes

Man on knees measuring wood.

Just like with any construction project, a property renovation can easily become a disaster if you’re not careful in terms of… well, many things!

A renovation can be such a big project that it becomes easy to overlook the small things which can be the pitfall of the entire project.

Here are some of the biggest renovation mistakes and how you can avoid them.

Proceeding too soon

Proper planning is crucial for a successful property renovation. That’s why you need to avoid acting on impulse and renovating too soon. Before proceeding and buying any materials, you need to make sure first that plan is completely outlined and that you have answered these 10 essential renovation questions.

Ensure that the home renovation scope is determined, the design is finalised, and the budget is in place. Planning and approvals are a very important part of the overall renovation process. Not until you’re satisfied with the plan should you begin with your renovations.

Insufficient budget

Whether you’ll be saving up or applying for financing, you must prepare more than enough money to cover the expenses. Else, you’ll find yourself stopping even before the renovations are completed. That’s why having an insufficient budget is one of the biggest renovation mistakes. If you are doing a D-I-Y renovation, do extensive research on the prices of materials. Go to your local suppliers or search the web. You can also ask your friends or family members who have done renovations before.

If you are getting professional help from experts, then ask for a quotation for the entire project. You’ll find this more accurate than your own estimate. But don’t settle for one enquiry. Make sure to get quotes from at least three contractors so you can get the best deal possible.

After that, don’t forget to set aside a budget for council permits and fees. Once you get a good idea about the entire cost of the renovation, don’t forget to add 20% more for your contingency budget which will cover any unexpected expenses.

Renovating for your own taste

It’s but normal that you renovate according to what you fancy, but it could put you in a bad position once you decide to sell the property. It’s more advisable to research what most home buyers are looking for. It could be a modern interior style, an outdoor entertainment space, or spacious living area. Whichever it is, try to incorporate it to your plan, so your newly renovated home will still attract future buyers.

Also, only make renovations and additions that will give your property a higher resale value. It may be nice to add a swimming pool to your backyard, but not all home buyers think so. Some just see it as an additional household expense. So, concentrate on renovating the rooms that will add value to the property, like the kitchen, the bathroom, and bedrooms.

Most property searchers are, in fact, looking for homes with more bedrooms.

Overspending

Going over budget is also one of the biggest renovation mistakes that most homeowners make. Costly fittings and fixtures are not always the best options. If they’re not included in the budget computation, then refrain from buying no matter how enticing they can be. Aside from blowing up your budget unnecessarily, they will also drive your house price so much higher. Future home buyers may not be able to afford it, should you decide to sell your property.

Don’t overspend and overcapitalise. Stick to your budget. Find the tiles, taps, rugs, and throw pillows that will go well with your home design instead. Yes, good items come at a higher price, but some cheaper items will do just fine and may even be better for your home. Keep the receipts, so you can track the expenses and prevent going overboard your set limit.

Not prioritising quality

Avoiding going overboard on renovation expense does not mean forgetting the quality of work. Don’t make this simple mistake by cutting corners and getting the cheapest materials and labour you can get. These will only lead you to more repairs in the future.

So, hire the best renovators your budget can afford. Get the best tools and materials as well without overspending. And if you are doing the renovations on your own, make sure to avoid shortcuts and do full quality labour.

Not moving out

If you are renovating multiple rooms or a large area of your home, then it may be more convenient to move out and find temporary accommodation for the family. Renovations can be unhealthy for everyone, given the clouds of dust, the smell of paint, and the annoying noises during the whole renovation period. All of these can stress out anyone in the family that’s why not moving out is one of the biggest renovation mistakes.

So, while the work is in progress, vacate the property for the meantime and stay in temporary lodging. It will give everyone peace of mind until the property renovation is done.

Ignoring the building regulations

Home and property renovations are governed by the Building Code of Australia (BCA) and state council regulations. Some minor renovations are considered exempt, which means that they do not require permit or approval. But some do, including the construction of extensions, balconies, carports, and swimming pools.

Building approval is required for these types of home renovations to ensure the safety of the project. If you proceed with the renovation without the required approval, you could face a $44,000 maximum fine and prosecution for criminal offences. So, make sure to get your renovation approved by the Council or Private Building Surveyors.

Becoming your own designer

Another one of the biggest renovation mistakes of homeowners is becoming their own designer. Don’t get caught in this pitfall. You might have an eye for good interior design, but professional designers are still the right people for the job. And with the huge amount of money you’re about to spend, you’d want your renovation to be correctly designed.

Get an interior designer and forget about saving extra money. Pretending to understand a design scheme can lead to errors and repairs, which will cost you more. Although hiring a professional interior designer will give you additional expense today, it will give also save you time and money in the long run.

Not enough skills

There’s no problem with a D-I-Y home renovation if you and your mates have the competence for the job. If not, then you’d better think twice. Home renovation is a serious business. Without the right skills, you’ll not only be putting yourselves in danger but also be wasting your money and effort.

If you are serious about not getting professional help, then you better learn everything you can. Watch instructional videos on YouTube, Google tips and ideas, and ask for advice from friends who’ve done renovations before. But if you don’t have time to do all these, then it’s best to call your local home renovators.

Choosing the wrong home builders

Now, getting help from renovation experts may be your best option. But it can also lead to one of the biggest renovation mistakes, which is not choosing the right professionals. On your haste to renovate right away, you may opt for the vendor who is not a good fit for your needs.

Remember, good reviews and successful projects don’t mean a renovator is the right one for you. When interviewing a potential contractor, make sure that you have the same priorities and ideas.

The right renovator should ask you for what you want. More importantly, that expert should assure you to meet your expectations on the finished product.

So, see to it that you shop around for the right home builder first before proceeding with the renovations. Choose the builder who will listen to you and help you achieve your goals, just like Renovare Australia.

Contact Us

Our team of renovation experts will transform your home into a new space that you will love once more.

Contact Renovare now at 1300 049 516 for all residential and commercial property renovations.

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