Home renovations require much more planning and thought than what most of our clients realize when we speak to them in the early stages of project discovery. We are dedicated to helping to educate and avoid common pitfalls though out our process. We at Crossbeam Builders take pride in our ability to show off a final home renovation or new build, but we also love to show off our commitment to the planning in advance, which in turn creates a calmer environment with our clients to making a dream for a home renovation be a pleasant experience. In order to create a more pleasant experience, we go out of our way to reduce mistakes as part of the renovation process. Some of the common mistakes we find are the following.
PROJECT PLANNING AND EXECUTION
We can never underestimate taking the time to plan. As the saying goes, “Planning Prevents Poor Performance!”. This holds particularly true in the realm of home renovations. Many homeowners initially come to us with a general idea of what they want to achieve but may not have a clear plan for how to get there. We often receive requests for bids without detailed specifications, which can feel like trying to choose a destination without a map. Investing the time to carefully develop your project will not only help you avoid costly mistakes down the line, but it will also align the entire team around a shared vision.
CHOOSING THE RIGHT CONTRACTOR
Finding the right contractor is a critical step that deserves thoughtful consideration. While the excitement of starting your project can make it tempting to rush this decision, it’s essential to approach it with care. Factors like the contractor’s experience, professional credentials, client reviews, and most importantly, your personal interactions with them are all vital. Building trust and rapport is key. Assess whether they have a structured process for project development, in-house design capabilities, effective communication methods, and relevant technology. Take the time to listen to potential contractors to ensure a strong working relationship that will lead to a successful home renovation project.
BUDGET REALITIES
Setting a realistic budget can be challenging, especially when expectations are based on speculative “ballpark” pricing rather than solid data. Often, this occurs when “bids” are requested without sufficient details. While we are cautious about providing budget estimates before fully understanding your home renovation project, we have extensive historical data that can help guide you toward a realistic budget. Unlike new home constructions, remodeling projects are unique, involving various systems and personal preferences. It’s essential to assess the existing conditions of your home and blend that with your desires to create an accurate budget. Be wary of internet pricing and online models, as they can lead to unrealistic expectations.
MANAGING PROJECT CHANGES
It’s natural for visions to evolve during a home renovation project, but frequent changes can lead to delays and increased costs. Material selections can account for up to 60% of a project’s overall cost, and changing your mind often incurs restocking fees, longer lead times, and additional labor costs. Taking the time to carefully consider your choices at the outset will help minimize changes later on. If you do decide to make a change, ensure your contractor documents it properly and provides a written change order. This way, you have all the information you need to make informed decisions without unexpected surprises. When changes are made, simply expect to have an impact on either time, costs or both – and that way you better enjoy the renovation process.
Whether your home renovation project consists of a large addition, or perhaps it will be limited to a kitchen or bathroom renovation, they all should be treated in the same manner to avoid the common home renovation mistakes.
This is an exciting moment in your project journey; take the time to dream and enjoy the process!