7 Common Home Remodeling Mistakes Homeowners Make

Even with the best of intentions, it’s possible to make common remodeling mistakes if you’re not aware of them.

As you plan ahead for your remodeling project, don’t get caught making one of these common home remodeling mistakes homeowners make.

1. Doing DIY Tasks without the Time or Skill

DIY projects can save you thousands of dollars on labor. But be cautious when signing yourself up for DIY remodeling tasks. If you don’t have the time to complete the task promptly, your project could go on for months, or even years.

In addition, if you don’t have the experience or skill needed for certain projects, you may risk wasting time and money if you can’t pass inspections or meet code.

2. Not Knowing What You Want

If your wants and needs change by the day or the hour, your home remodeling project may be in jeopardy. Before starting your project, make a clear list of your needs versus your wants.

By making these important decisions early, you can avoid changing your mind at various stages throughout the project. Make decisions on details (big and small) now so you can set a budget and stick to it.

3. Having an Unrealistic Budget

Setting a budget often sets the course for your entire home remodeling project. But your budget needs to be realistic.

Do your research by pricing out materials and labor, and work with a professional contractor to decide if your budget can cover what you want. If not, you may need to adjust your budget by reconsidering your needs versus wants. Or, you may decide to increase your budget to make sure the job gets done right the way you want it.

4. Rushing a Project

Need the remodel completed in time for an event or a new addition to the family? That’s not a problem if contractors are given enough time and notice.

However, if you’re requesting an unrealistic, rushed timeline, these situations often cause unnecessary stress and problems when delays or unforeseen issues arise. Schedule enough time to complete the project without the rush.

5. Not Preparing for the Unexpected

As soon as you start tearing up floors and walls, hidden problems may expose themselves. Prepare yourself for the unexpected by understanding that issues may arise under the surface. If they happen, relax and calmly handle them with the help of your contractor.

6. Making Your Home Clash in a Neighborhood

Don’t be that neighbor. You may have interesting, unique ideas for the outside of your home, but don’t let your ideas go so far that your home clashes with the rest of the neighborhood.

Carefully consider style upgrades and additions to keep the value of your home high while maintaining positive relationships with neighbors on your street.

7. Not Thoroughly Researching and Interviewing Contractors

One of the biggest mistakes homeowners make is not choosing a trustworthy and qualified contractor. While recommendations from friends, coworkers, and family are a great start, this is only the beginning.

Are they properly licensed? Insured? Experienced? When you’re investing your hard-earned money into upgrades for your home or property, thoroughly research and interview contractors before making a decision and signing on the dotted line.

Need help finding a trusted contractor near you? We know not everyone has time to do the research to find an experienced contractor. At Contractor Connection, we do the hard work for you. By simply providing your ZIP code above, we match you with qualified contractors in your area. To ensure a great experience, you also receive a 3-year workmanship warranty. It’s that simple.