Home renovations are a great way to upgrade your living space and improve your lifestyle, but these can also be major projects that are both disruptive and expensive. With this in mind, this post will look at a few of the key considerations you should be making before embarking on any project.
This way, you can be prepared and plan a smooth renovation whilst also avoiding a few of the most common issues that homeowners run into.
Budgeting & Cost Estimation
Understanding the costs involved in your renovation project upfront is crucial.
There are many costs involved in renovation projects, each different from one another, and they can quickly add up, so it is smart to use tools like online calculators that will give you a realistic estimate before jumping in head first.
Knowing how much a project could cost before you start will let you know whether you can afford it or whether you need to explore financing options like a renovation loan if required. Additionally, it is advised to allocate an extra 10% of the budget for unexpected costs.
Planning & Permissions
Before any work commences, the next thing you should look into is whether or not your project will require planning permission , especially for structural modifications or extensions. Consulting with residential property lawyers or trade professionals like structural engineers can ensure everything is above board and can be wise, especially if you are concerned about legal or regulatory issues affecting your plans.
It is wise to verify if planning permission is required as early as possible, as it can take some time for applications to be processed, and you will not want to encounter delays.
Choosing Materials & Finishes
You will want to select high-quality materials for your renovation project as this can add long-term value, but you must also balance quality and budget. Current trends favour eco-friendly and durable options, such as sustainable and reclaimed wood.
Depending on the project there may be specific options like energy-efficient windows for replacing windows, or certain types of insulation that are environmentally friendly if you’re insulting the property.
This can add value to your home as well as reduce future maintenance costs.
Hiring Professionals & Managing the Project
One area that many people struggle with is choosing reputable builders and tradesmen. This is a key decision that will have a huge impact on the project’s success, so you need to take your time to find the right people for the job.
You should always research different options, meet with a few potential builders, and ask friends and family for recommendations. Make sure that communication is easy with the professionals that you choose and that they have transparent pricing in place.
In addition to choosing builders and tradespeople, managing a clear schedule and communicating roles and timelines with contractors are essential steps to keep the renovation on track and avoid costly delays. If you do not want to do this yourself, you could hire a project manager.
These are a few of the main considerations with any renovation project. Home renovation can be exciting and a great way to improve your living space, but these projects can also be complex, disruptive, and expensive. By focusing on the above areas, you should be able to navigate the process smoothly and avoid a few of the most common mistakes.
