Considering a Home Renovation Project? Read These 6 Top Tips for First-Time Home Renovators…

Renovating a home can be a rewarding, but incredibly stressful experience especially for first timers. You’ve heard of all the renovation nightmares before, but you can never really appreciate them until they happen to you! If you’re planning on knocking walls down, replacing windows, ripping up carpets and getting stuck into a project this year, then there are a few things you should know to ensure you’re prepared for any situation. Sure, it might not be all smooth sailing, but with plenty of research and planning, you can try to make the process as stress-free as possible. Here are six top tips for first-time home renovators to get you started…

Start with a survey

The first step in any renovation project, is to undertake all of the necessary surveys. This is extremely important unless you want any nasty surprises down the line. Building surveyors will be able to assess your planned works and point out any possible issues that may arise. It’s also a good idea if you’re purchasing a period property to seek a survey before you seal the deal. You never know what problems might be lurking beneath the surface.

Create a step-by-step plan

The second on our list of top tips for first-time home renovators is to make a plan. It sounds so simple, but you’d be surprised at the number of people who jump head first into a big renovation project with little to no plan of action. Renovating can be a mentally and physically exhausting process, made worse when things go wrong and timings don’t add up. Most stresses can be largely avoided with a step-by-step plan in place, it will save you time and money in the long run. You need to consider the groundwork first, these are the big (and usually costly!) jobs. Think of them as your foundations, it will be everything from any potential leaks, roofing issues, electricals and any brickwork. You need to ensure you pay full attention to these in order to progress with minimal issues in the future!

If possible live somewhere else

If you’re going to stay in your property whilst you’re renovating, be prepared for plenty of disruption and dust. Whilst it’s not possible for everyone to live in temporary accommodation, it could be worth considering if you’re able to crash with family and friends whilst the bigger building jobs are underway. This will enable you to carry on your daily life without meandering around tradesman. It can make a huge difference, and if your renovation project is particularly time sensitive, then this will help to get things moving along quicker.

Don’t underestimate the cost of renovating

Ask any renovator, and one of the number one pieces of advice they’re bound to give you is never to underestimate on cost. In most cases, renovations will end up going over budget due to unforeseen circumstances and any necessary changes in the plan. Before you start paying out, sit down and put together a budget plan for each aspect of your renovation. Gather quotes and research pricing to give yourself an understanding of what you’re likely to spend on, think about everything from tradesmen, to materials and furnishings.

Spend money in the right places

There are certain corners that shouldn’t be cut when it comes to a home renovation. Doors and windows can have a huge impact on the overall look of your home, so don’t make a rushed decision, do plenty of research and make sure you choose something that will stand the test of time. If you’re looking to let in more natural light into your property, you might want to consider a sleek, slimline sliding door. You’ll also need to consider the material of your doors and windows (will it be timber or aluminium?), there are many decisions to make and it’s worth planning a visit to a showroom so you can get a better idea of the quality of the doors and windows you’re considering purchasing.

Learn how to be (very) patient

Home renovations are costly and timely projects, although you’ll be thankful when your vision comes to life and you’re living in your dream home, it does require a fair amount of patience. Unfortunately, even with plenty of pre-planning, you can’t predict everything. There are always delays, and you might find that you get let down at the last minute, unfortunately, that’s life, and whilst it is frustrating you need to be prepared for these eventualities.

It’s always best to be prepared for the worst-case scenario, but don’t let that put you off! Home renovations, once completed, are incredibly satisfying and a great option if you’re not looking to move house but fancy a change of scenery. Preparation is key, and if you spend the time to effectively plan then this will greatly reduce any headaches! Happy renovating.

Let us know your favourite in our list of top tips for first-time home renovators!