We’ve seen a LOT of home renovations, both in our company and personally when working on our own homes. Over our decades of experience in this area, we have been keeping a list of common mistakes and easy traps that homeowners can fall into during the design and build process. These can all stress, delay the schedule and in some cases eat up the all-important budget – so keep this to hand during your renovation to avoid making the same mistakes!
1. Thinking you can live in your home during the renovation
It only works if you’re doing something small, and your kitchen and bathroom are still functioning (even then we bet you’ll be so fed up with the dust and noise). If you are gutting your property for a full renovation, get out of there and save yourself the daily stress.
2. Going ahead with a plan you’re not 100% happy with
Don’t be afraid to speak up if something doesn’t feel right with your plan. Architects and builders may have the skills and experience but it’s you that will be living in the space. Your instincts on these things are usually right and they don’t resolve themselves. Work with your professionals to find a solution that you feel confident and excited to move forward with.
3. Not communicating every decision in writing
Lots of discussions happen in person on site, but make sure you follow up every decision point with a written email. If it’s not in writing, it didn’t happen.
4. Scheduling your completion date close to Christmas
Our advice is to avoid this timeframe completely! It’s always chaotic and if you have a deadline during this time, it’s usually missed.
5. Prioritising budget over value
For most people, your home is the biggest investment you’ll make in your lifetime. Therefore you want to spend your money on the things that you’ll see the biggest return on. This doesn’t have to be fancy fixtures and expensive marble, but rather an efficient floor plan that can transform the home to suit your family without increasing the square metreage.
