A full-home remodel can increase your home’s worth and let you customize it to your tastes. There are several things to consider when renovating.
Budgeting for Reality: Not Just a Dream
Naturally, money comes first. HomeGuide.com estimates that upgrading a property costs $20,000 to $100,000, depending on criteria including size, quality of materials, and structural alterations. If problems arise, that price will skyrocket. What are the most expensive home renovation blunders and how to avoid them? We asked interior designer and HGTV star Emily Henderson for her best advise.
Henderson says expensive renovation blunders are design mistakes and unneeded splurges. Failure to get professional aid or speak with a general contractor falls into the former category, while investing in materials, unique features, or smart home technologies that won’t add value to your home falls into the latter.
One home improvement that usually pays off? More windows. “Natural light is your best friend when it comes to decorating,” he explains.
Henderson says it’s normal to feel overwhelmed and question your choices. Renovations drain a person financially, psychologically, emotionally, and physically. Not to be negative, but I want folks to know they’re not alone during a renovation. A few mistakes are unavoidable; be kind to yourself.”
Common Renovation Pitfalls and How to Steer Clear
Henderson lists the most typical renovation blunders and how to avoid them.
1. Not communicating with your contractor.
Henderson believes miscommunication with a general contractor can cause the largest blunders. “If you fail to properly communicate, that’s on you,” adds Henderson. “Contractors work fast and cheaply, therefore they won’t ask you about every detail and will make many assumptions to move the project forward. To get anything done a specific way, you must anticipate those interactions.”
HOW TO AVOID: Explain your preferences, such as where a wall-mount faucet should go over the sink or where tile backsplash should terminate. Share drawings and measurements with precise precision.
2. Not hiring professionals for some tasks.
“If you don’t have a job and you love YouTube, you can do a decent amount on your own,” he says. Some projects, especially plumbing, require a contractor. “If your plumbing isn’t done right, you close the walls and tile, then there’s a leak later, you’re stuck renovating again,” warns.
Avoid shifting walls, electrical, plumbing, or HVAC systems without help. Plumbers are the subcontractor you shouldn’t skimp on, according to many designers. Henderson recommends word-of-mouth for contractor selection.
3. Space overdesign.
“I always want people to feel free with color and encourage taking risks and adding creativity in your home, but pretend it’s 20 years from now,” he says. “Ask yourself, ‘do you still love this space?'” Not only are there environmental issues, but you don’t want to renovate your home every 10 years because you’re bored with a trend.
Avoid “Not every surface — think floors, walls, cabinets or countertops — has to be a design risk,” adds Henderson. Focus on one or two dangers each room. Hard finishes—you can go crazy with art, pillows, accessories, and furniture as they may be sold or transferred.”
Henderson uses white walls and basic moldings in her sunny dining room, then risks checkerboard tile flooring.
4. Investing in the wrong rooms.
Don’t buy a room you’ll rarely use, like your formal dining room or guest room. “It’s really important to design your rooms based on how you want to experience them,” he explains.
Avoid: Spend the greatest time, energy, and money on family rooms. Henderson bought a large sectional sofa and Samsung’s The Frame TV, which showcases Samsung Art Store art, to make her media room a family favorite.
Wondering where to spend most of your money? Start in the kitchen. “Even if you don’t care about resale, you’re going to spend so much time in the kitchen,” he says. I also think the main bedroom is neglected too much. Being satisfied with where you sleep will improve you.” She concludes that mudrooms and pantries are worth the money to avoid daily turmoil.
Samsung The Frame TV, which displays artwork in Henderson’s media room while not in use, is a terrific multi-use item.
5. Overspending on special features.
Custom cabinetry, built-ins, and millwork (molding and trim) are expensive but elegant. “Certain spaces, like the living room, can be elevated through decorating with furniture, art and accessories, so you can invest less in the harder finishes,” he says. I don’t know how much you’ll notice the baseboard’s handmade beading if you’ve added vintage furniture and cool artwork that sparks conversations and adds individuality. I would emphasize details in a kitchen, where décor options are limited.”
NOT TO DO: Ask yourself, “How much time will I spend in this space?” when planning your space. Next, consider your budget to decide if custom features are worth it. Henderson advocates shopping at The Home Depot or IKEA for customized alternatives unless you have a significant budget.
What’s the difference between upgrade and refurbishment?
Smaller house modifications like tile backsplash, faucet replacement, and light fixtures are upgrades. However, home improvements cost more and include opening, shifting, or relocating walls. Breaking down walls can cause several issues, especially in older homes. Once you find those surprises, you can’t unsee them and you’ll have to fix them. If you have the budget and want to invest in your home, you absolutely should renovate. If you can’t, try to do the upgrades.
