The Six Fastest Ways to Blow Your Remodeling Budget

Remodeling your home is a great way to add more space and improve functionality. But you’ve probably heard horror stories about remodeling projects that got out of control, with lots of unexpected extra charges and a home that looks like a war zone for months on end.

There are several reasons that a home can turn into a money pit, but it doesn’t have to be that way. With an experienced, reputable contractor and effective planning, you can have the home you envisioned, while keeping your wallet – and sanity – intact. Avoiding these six budget-busters is key:

Not having a budget

Starting without a budget is an invitation to letting costs get out of control. Having a budget – and sticking to it – is essential. Otherwise, it’s too easy to keep adding and adding new ideas and costs after your project gets under way. Fortunately, there are a number of apps that can help you manage your renovation budget.

Doing the wrong project

Choosing the right project isn’t always easy. It might seem like a great idea to turn that unused bedroom into a custom closet – but how will that impact your home’s value in the long run. Talk with your design team about what you’re hoping to achieve with your project. A professional remodeler has the experience to know what’s possible in a renovation, and the best way to make it happen.

Doing the right project at the wrong time

If you’re about to put your house on the market, you may be tempted to plan several extensive projects before you list it. This can be a mistake, however. After all of your planning and expense, you won’t have any time to enjoy the results of your remodeling project.

An up-to-date kitchen and bathrooms will generally have the greatest ROI – return on investment. These can be make-or-break elements in a home sale. Painting is also a relatively low-cost way to make your home fresher and more attractive.

Choosing the wrong contractor

Hiring a reputable contractor is vital. Don’t use a contractor who offers a “low ball” bid for your project. He may offer to do the job at a very low price that doesn’t include what you need. He’ll find extra costs as the project goes along, greatly changing the price you expected to pay.

Make sure that the scope of your project includes what you want, need and expect.

Going overboard

When you’re planning your remodel, it’s easy to get carried away. Your design team can help you balance splurges and savings in your remodeling budget. They can suggest ways to save without sacrificing quality or beauty and can also suggest areas in which you might want to spend a little extra.

It’s important to not “over-improve.” When it’s time for you to sell your home, buyers won’t pay for remodeling work that raises a property above neighborhoods standards, experts say.

Making changes during construction

Changes in the middle of the project can lead to greatly increased costs. Work may have to be done again, and new materials may have to be ordered. Workers may have to be brought back in. These changes will cause delays and additional expenses. Try to stick to the initial design plan as much as possible. If any changes are made, try to make them as early as possible.

How Brownlow & Sons can help you!

Brownlow & Sons has been providing high-quality and affordable remodeling services in the Atlanta area since 1945. We’ll assign you a professional to help you create a detailed, realistic design and project proposal that specifies the work to be done and at what cost. Contact us today for a free estimate.