Renovating your home can be an exciting time in your life, especially if this is your first project. What many first time homeowners don’t realize however is that renovating your home can come with a number of pitfalls as well.  If you aren’t aware of some of the most common renovating mistakes, you could find yourself in a whole lot of hot water.

Fortunately, we’ve listed a few of the most common mistakes and situations that you can easily avoid.  Doing so will save you time, money and headaches!

1. Not having a plan

One of the biggest mistakes that homeowners make is renovating their home without a game plan in place.  In fact, many home owners underestimate the complexity and financial commitment of most renovation projects.  In turn, they often feel overwhelmed that their project is taking longer and costing more than they thought.

As an interior designer, one of the first things I do before ever making a purchase is to make a plan.  You can do this too, by outlining how far you want to take your project before you take action.  Once you’ve figured out how far to take your project, you can then begin the process of estimating materials and labor so that you can create a budget.

Not completing this step could have you turning a small project into a huge production.  Even the smallest renovation project can get out of control quickly with out a plan in place. 

2. Not Having a Budget

After you’ve come up with a plan for your remodel, the next step is to put together a budget.   Not having a budget or under estimating your budget is one the top ways that homeowners get in over their heads with a renovation project.

When you create a home renovation plan it will help you see how much you are looking at spending.  This will better allow you to create a budget for your project.   Many people end up spending more than they can afford, so having a budget will help you stay on course.

When you have a budget in mind you can set some money aside to cover your expenses along with some of the unexpected expenses.  Even the best laid plans can go wrong and home renovation projects are notorious for unearthing the unexpected.  For instance, you might knock down a wall only to discover mold or other damage that needs to be fixed.

While that may not have been in your original budget, proper planning can help lessen the impact when things like this do happen.

3. Not Considering Energy Efficiency

A home renovation is a great time to increase the energy efficiency of your home.  However, many homeowners are initially put off by using green materials or opting for energy efficient appliances because they think that it will be more expensive.  

This couldn’t be further from the truth!  The fact is that green materials and appliances don’ have to be more expensive and can even save you money in the long run.  During your remodel you may be installing new windows and doors and purchasing new appliances.  It’s the perfect time to make sure that the new appliances and installations are energy efficient.

4. You Get What You Pay For

Many homeowners who are doing either the entire project themselves or even a portion as a “do it yourself”, opt to go the cheapest route.  Unfortunately, you get what you pay for and cheaper is not always better.  Whether you are doing the project as a DIY or hiring a contractor, take the time to research the materials that will be used in your home. 

Nothing is worse than renovating your home and replacing old appliances and fixtures with low quality products and materials.  Look at a renovation as an investment in your home and use the highest quality you can afford.  In doing so, you will get more bang for your buck, your improvements will last longer and the value of your home will increase dramatically.

5. Not Getting Your Permits Before You Begin

Many homeowners make the mistake of not getting the right permits in order before engaging in their renovation project.  If you are working with a reputable contractor, they should let you know which permits will be required before you get started and may even help you to obtain them. 

However, it’s always a good idea to do your homework first regardless.  Permit laws vary by city, county and state so it’s always a good idea to check in the location where your remodel will take place.  Even some of the smallest projects may require a permit, whether you realize it or not.

6. Going With the Trends

Selecting products and materials that are too trendy is a remodeling mistake most homeowners can’t afford to make.  Instead of what’s trendy and hot right now, go for materials and home renovation ideas that are timeless. 

Sure, oil rubbed bronze might be the hottest finish on the market right now, but in 3-4 years it might be polished nickel.  Remember those yellowish, brass fixtures that were so in about 10 years ago?  Anyone who installed those in their kitchen or bath is probably looking for a replacement in a more subtle finish now. 

Steer clear of renovation add ons or looks that are based on short term trends.  When you select a look that is timeless and classic, you’ll be able to enjoy your home renovation for a long time to come without it feeling outdated.  Touches that fit into this category are neutral colors, finishes and materials.  You can even apply this to the finishes of your appliances and the materials used on your countertops, windows, doors and floors.

Betaview has a full line of timeless and classic aluminum windows and doors to suit a range of budgets.  Whether your project is big or small, modern or traditional, Betaview has the expertise and experience to help you create the perfect customized solution for your aluminum window and door needs.