Making mistakes is part of life, and so it’s no surprise some homeowners who have undertaken a significant remodeling project have a few regrets about the result.
Remodels are complex, and it’s easy to miss opportunities such as having the kitchen made larger or regret spending too much or too little on fittings.
As an experienced agent, I hear many remodeling stories. The vast majority of my clients are thrilled with their decision to invest in their home, and even those with a battle scar rarely express total regret.
If you own an apartment or house, and you’re thinking of an upgrade for your property, I’ve outlined some lessons taken from other owners’ experiences.
Spend more time planning
While we might contemplate an upgrade for months, even years, that’s dreaming not planning. Don’t rush anything. Be sure of what you want and who you want to work with before committing.
Design delight
Owners who spent extra to work with an architect, planning professional and even a lighting consultant are usually the most delighted with the result of the upgrade. Don’t look at these services as a cost but as a way of creating value. They can protect you from mistakes through their experience.
Don’t DIY
Unless you’re a DIY rock star, leave it to the experts. Buyers can spot a home with sub-standard craftsmanship from a mile away. You’re not saving money in the long run. Poor finishing always diminishes a property’s value.
Pick your partner
Tales of woe about hiring wrong contractors could go forever. Take your time with your selection. Always get three quotes aligned to the same brief. Ask for their licenses, insurances and previous clients and speak to those clients and get references.
Wrong furnishings
Sometimes your eyes are bigger than your lifestyle. For example, huge soaker tubs look fantastic until you turn on the faucets and realize it’s going to take an hour to fill. Ask yourself whether you’re going to use these sorts of features regularly.
Going five-star
It’s so tempting to want the very best of everything, but you may look back and ask why you spent $2,000 on a kitchen mixer faucet. Unless money is no object, take a more practical approach. Select solid brands and quality products. You don’t need to gold plate everything.
Great outdoors
Gardens and decking are fabulous additions to any home. But don’t install or build anything that you’re not prepared to maintain. Wooden decks are a great example of this: they need annual maintenance that can be time-consuming and relatively expensive on the oil and varnish. If you ignore them, they discolor and rot away.