9 Home Remodeling Mistakes - and how to avoid them

Failing to check neighborhood guidelines. As a realtor, there are HOA rules and regulations that we look at per property that we come across. When buying a home, there may be regulations regarding the interior or exterior of your home. This also means there might be an approval process before you are able to dig, tear down or add on to your property. Some examples we have come across are: the type of fence you're allowed to set up, the color of the exterior of your home, to even the style of windows. All in all, finding out if there are rules or regulations is as simple as a phone call to an expert realtor.

Ignoring potentially expensive problems. Let's be honest, Pinterest gives those at home do-ers a LOT of ideas. But, not all those ideas are meant for YOUR home. Don't shrug off a support beam because it doesn't "fit your Pinterest board." In our mind, there are two aspects to a renovation: The stuff you want to do and the stuff you have to do. If you are ever unsure of what has to be updated, and what can be bypassed, call up a contractor, inspector, or utility worker to grasp a concept on the condition of your utilities.

Skipping Inspections. We cannot stress enough why inspections are so important. Just like you get an inspection before you buy a home, you should also get an inspection before you dive into your renovation work. Though the inspections are usually free - be prepared for the inspection to add to the home renovation cost. In the end, the inspection will give you an idea of weather or not you want to take on the renovation in the first place, and allow you to make the informed decision about the cost and what will need to be done so the renovations passes approval when the time comes to sell the home. All in all, yes it might cost more to do a renovation right, but it will save you time and money in the long run.

Not thinking big picture. Bouncing off the idea above - before you start - be realistic of the needs and cost of the home renovation. Make a list of the renovations you are looking into, and think of how you are going to use the renovation in your time left in the home. Also, think about what should be done now, and what can wait until a later date. Allowing you to take your time and not rush through renovation projects.

Not considering a home's long term needs. We know you live in your home now, but think about the future buyers when you're going to be ready to sell. Before turning that 3rd bedroom into a master walk in closet, adding wallpaper to the office, knocking down the walls, or tearing up all of the landscaping, think about the transformation and what it means in the long run.

Tearing down walls without preparing for what's behind them. There is more to tearing down the wall then just moving sheetrock and studs. Think about the electrical, relocation of piping, and the piece of flooring that will now be exposed. Especailly in older homes, issues may be uncovered after you get started.

Not getting multiple quotes. Don't hire the first contractor, roofer, or electiricion you meet. Get at least 3 quotes to get a feel of their skills and confirm the potential quality of a contractor. Being the cheapest in the business isn't always the best. These companies might be doing major work for, and their skill will imptact the long term value of your investment.

Not hiring a professional where needed. We know you love the home renovation shows, and Pinterest has a million ideas of "how to do it yourself." But, before diving into a project, really ask yourself, "what can I do, and what do I need to hire someone else out for?" There is no shame in knowing you need an electircian or a plumber to come out and help with your process to ensure it is done right.

Underestimating the value of a good paint job. Sometimes all a room needs to new carpet and a fresh paint job. This simple task can make a dark, musky room look bigger and brighter. Making this quick asthetic renovation can add dollars to your home value, and make a space more inviting.

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