We are currently working on several renovation projects and I’m constantly reminded of certain pitfalls to avoid when renovating or building a new home.
Building or renovating is a huge investment with your time and more importantly, your money.
When a client hires us, we strive to be their advocate, help them invest their money wisely, and (hopefully) take away the stress. Follow along as I share some tips I’ve learned over the years.
5 Must-Follow Tips On Building Or Renovating A Home:
Pitfall #1: Order the Size Window the Architect Specifies
Sometimes in the bidding process, it’s discussed replacing a custom window with a standard size one to save a little money.
Don’t do it – window size, type, and placement are extremely important when building a home, and this small change can dramatically alter the look of what has been professionally drawn.
Pitfall #2: Buy Right the First Time
Let’s face it….Life gets busy and all of us have good intentions to go back later and switch something out. I know building can be draining and tiring, but once you have moved and settled in, the last thing you want to do is spend money to replace something.
Buy the best you can afford on the front end and you will enjoy it for many years to come.
Pitfall #3: Use Classic Building Materials
Save the trends for things that are easy to switch out such as pillows and accessories. Keep your building material finishes classic. You will thank me in the long run, especially if you decide to sell.
Custom cabinetry from a project a few years back, Dana Wolter Interiors, Graham Yelton Photography
Custom kitchen designed by Dana Wolter Interiors
Pitfall #4: Set Money Aside for the Furnishings
Budget appropriately for the building process and be sure to leave enough money to properly furnish the home. The furnishing budget is just as important as the building budget, and I promise you, it is nice to be DONE with the entire project so you can ENJOY the home you worked so hard to create.
Dana Wolter Interiors, Graham Yelton Photography
Pitfall #5: Think Long Term on Your Needs
How long are you going to live in this house? If you plan on staying for five years or more, you need to take into account what your needs will be down the road.
Are you an empty nester building your final house? Be sure to think ahead on bedroom placement, stairs and other simple things that could be a hindrance down the road.
A custom-designed island for an empty-nester couple, Dana Wolter Interiors, Graham Yelton Photography
Will your children be teenagers in five years? If so, they (and their friends) will only grow bigger and need more space.
Be sure to think long term and hire the best architect, designer, landscape designer, and builder your budget allows. I promise you that in the end, it will save you money and hassle.
If you are building or renovating and would like to discuss your project and how avoid these common pitfalls with us, email us here. I would love to talk with you.
Have a great day,
Dana
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