10 Biggest Remodeling Mistakes Every New Homeowner Makes
We all know that New Homeowners are the top prospects for remodeling and home improvement. There’s just one catch…..
First-time homeowners are often so excited with their new purchase that they rush into remodeling projects before they’re ready. Homeowners who take on a residential remodeling project really need to know what they’re getting into.
Here are 10 of the biggest remodeling mistakes every new homeowner makes (Home Improvement Contractors – take note – this is why you have to reach out to New Homeowners in a pro-active and systematic way – because we know they will be improving their new homes – whether it be a bathroom remodel, finishing the garage floor, upgrading the closets, or installing new outdoor lighting)
Neglecting to Make a Budget
CBS News reports that 37 percent of people who remodel their home do so without first setting a budget. The budget is one of the most crucial parts of a home remodeling project. Knowing your budget will allow you to set realistic expectations for your remodel. Without a budget, remodeling costs can easily grow out of control.
Neglecting to Prioritize
Many times the most fun remodeling projects are the least urgent. Kitchen renovations and bathroom upgrades sound glamorous, but deferred maintenance–like a new roof–should take priority. Also take note of timing when prioritizing. If a home in Connecticut is in need of a new roof and winter is on the way, that should definitely take priority over a new bathtub.
Hiring Contractors Without A Fixed-Price Contract
A professional contractor will provide a fixed-price contract. New Homeowners who do not ask for this often end up going above their budget. This type of contract defines draws and prevents pricing misunderstandings, which is good for both parties.
Neglecting To Make a Family Plan
Residential construction usually involves some amount of inconvenience while it’s happening. If the kitchen will be unusable for a few days, or if you’ll be reduced to using only one toilet for an afternoon, prepare in advance and make a plan to avoid arguments.
Using Poor Quality Materials
New homeowners who stick to a budget may be tempted to skimp on materials in order to save money. This may seem like a good idea at first, but doesn’t pay off in the long run. When it comes to remodeling mistakes, inexpensive materials don’t last long, and will cost more money to replace later.
DIY Remodeling
Unfortunately, many first-time homeowners simply don’t have the expertise to successfully undertake a remodeling project. DIY projects seem like a good idea before work begins, but online tutorials and home improvement books don’t always provide enough instruction to get the job done properly. Some projects are just better left to the professionals!
Choosing Energy-Inefficient Appliances
Going green is the way of the future. Green appliances are often a little more costly up front, but they save money over time, by lowering energy bills and increasing the resale value of your home. BTW – home improvement contractors who specialize in the Green market can actually market just to this specific group!
Hiring a Handyman Instead of a Contractor
Handymen, while less expensive, are not contractors and cannot be treated as such. In order for a New Homeowner to make a remodel a success, they need to hire someone who is certified, trained and qualified to handle a complex construction project. Otherwise, we’ll see another remodeling mistake.
Failing to Understand the Project
Research your home remodeling project before you seek out a contractor. You’ll need to know what’s realistic in order to avoid hiring a contractor that will promise anything–even if it’s a bad idea–just to get the job.
Improperly Vetting Contractors
New Homeowners need to know who they’re hiring and be sure to hire a contractor with a reputation for excellence. Ask to see a portfolio to prove your chosen contractor can get the job done right
Thank you to Kevin Ahern with Litchfield Builders in New Haven, CT for supplying a lot of this information. As a long-time licensed contractor in the industry, they have seen this many times before! Smart contractors use Dataman Group to find qualified prospects for their work.
Click HERE to read about the Top 5 remodeling projects.
