Home Transformation: 6 Renovation Tips Homeowners Need To Know

Feeling excited to start renovating your home but not sure where to start? You're not alone. Lots of homeowners jump into renovations without a clear plan and run into problems. Renovating a house is tricky and can be overwhelming if you're not ready for it.

Don't worry! By approaching things the right way and knowing how renovations work, you can make your home makeover dreams come true with less stress. We've put together six important tips to help you through the renovation journey.

Plan your budget

Before you start the work on the fancy kitchen you saw online, it's important to think about how much it might cost. One way to get an idea is by checking out prices at hardware stores or design centers. Take a look around and compare prices for all the things you'll need.

If that sounds like too much work, you can also ask suppliers or architects for quotes. Many builders will even come to your place and give you a free estimate. Typically, you'll pay about 50% for materials, 30% for labor, and 20% for tax. It's a good idea to talk to at least three contractors and compare their prices.

While you're planning your budget, don't forget to set aside some extra money for unexpected problems. Renovations can sometimes go wrong, like if a pipe bursts or a circuit blows. It's easy to forget about these things, but it's important to be prepared. Having a little extra money saved up can help you stay calm if something unexpected happens.

Be specific about your design and ideas

When it comes to renovating your home, it's not like starting from scratch with a blank canvas. Picture this: You're jazzing up your bathroom and adding a new bathtub. But as you go to install it, you realize your bathroom isn't as spacious as you thought. Suddenly, your new tub feels cramped, and there's barely any room to move around.

That's why it's essential to plan everything out before you start. Without a clear and detailed plan, you could end up with more than you bargained for. You might even forget what your original goal was! So, take some time to think about what you want and put it all down on paper. Saying you want a new bathroom is one thing, but what exactly does that mean?

Try to sketch out a detailed design and create a step-by-step plan. Decide what exactly you want to change in your renovation. Are you just looking to upgrade a few things like the mirror, countertop, or bathtub? Or are you considering bigger changes like knocking down walls or moving plumbing fixtures? Make sure you have a clear idea of what needs to be done, not just the big picture.

Before meeting with an interior designer, narrow down your design preferences. Get inspired by browsing home decorating magazines, websites, and design shows. Having a clear design direction will help ensure your vision for the renovation stays on track and isn't swayed by someone else's ideas.

And remember, stick to your budget when working with a designer. Don't let them talk you into expensive materials that will end up costing you more later on. By staying within your budget and setting a timeline, you can keep your renovation costs down.

Optimize your space

When preparing to sell your home, remember that storage space is a top priority for potential buyers. If your house is situated on a small lot, renovation projects that make the most of existing space can significantly boost its appeal. By redesigning layouts and repurposing rooms, you can enhance the visual appeal, create multifunctional spaces, and ensure no square inch goes to waste.

There are plenty of innovative techniques you can employ. If expanding horizontally isn't an option, consider maximizing vertical space instead. For instance, relocating bathroom cabinets to eye level can free up floor space and make the room feel more spacious. In tight quarters, smart storage solutions like wall-mounted cabinets can help keep belongings organized and out of sight.

Be realistic with your timeline

Before diving into your renovation, it's crucial to map out a schedule detailing each task and its order. Home makeovers demand hard work and long hours, making it easy to lose steam without a clear plan. With multiple rooms undergoing renovation, chaos can ensue, and it's easy to lose track of what needs to be done. By establishing a schedule, you can maintain a steady pace and stay focused until the project's completion.

However, it's essential to recognize that renovation projects often take longer than anticipated. Factors like adverse weather, delayed material deliveries, or subcontractor availability can all cause delays. That vision of enjoying your new bathtub within a week may turn into a seven-week waiting game.

When setting your timeline, it's vital to be realistic. Consider how long you can manage with temporary arrangements, like using a makeshift bathroom. Check your calendar for upcoming commitments that may demand your attention. Are you hosting an open house next month? Do you need the renovations completed within four weeks, or can you afford an additional two weeks for completion? Being honest about your expectations and available time will help ensure a smoother renovation process.

Be ready for the unexpected

Every home harbors secrets, hidden within walls, under floors, and in unexpected corners. Renovations often reveal these surprises, presenting challenges that weren't initially apparent.

For instance, during measurements for your eagerly awaited new hardwood floors, your contractor might discover uneven flooring caused by a shifted center joist. Addressing this issue requires repairing the floor joist before proceeding with the installation—a complication that wasn't part of the original plan.

This scenario highlights the importance of preparing for unexpected challenges by setting aside extra time and budget for your renovation project. By anticipating unforeseen mishaps, you can navigate potential obstacles more effectively and ensure a smoother renovation process overall.

Consider lifestyle changes 

Many homeowners overlook the impact of renovations on their daily routines and overall well-being. Depending on the scale of the project, disruptions to your living space can be significant, affecting your comfort and mental health.

Consider how you'll manage daily activities amidst the chaos of construction. Noise, dust, and constant traffic can make your home environment less than ideal for living. If the disturbance is too much to bear, you may need to explore alternative accommodation options, such as renting a temporary residence or staying with family.

For those opting to remain at home during renovations, plan ahead for basic needs like bathing, cooking, and sleeping. Temporary adjustments may be necessary to ensure a smooth transition until the project is complete.

Home renovations can be incredibly rewarding experiences, transforming your living space into something truly special. Whether you're sprucing up the kitchen, revamping the bathroom, or giving the living room a makeover, it's an exciting journey to embark on. However, like any adventure, there are potential pitfalls along the way.

To ensure your renovation goes smoothly, it's essential to be fully prepared. Take the time to consider all aspects of the project and plan accordingly. By doing so, you'll minimize the risk of setbacks and ensure a successful outcome for your home improvement endeavors.