28 Mar Common Remodeling Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them with Your Project

You’ve been eager to remodel your home so you can accommodate your growing family, welcome guests, or update an outdated design. But maybe you aren’t so sure where to start. Beginning a home remodeling project is filled with excitement and overwhelming, especially if this is your first remodeling project. It’s easy to get stressed out and overlook potential remodeling pitfalls that could set back your project significantly on time and budget. 

The Most Common Remodeling Pitfalls and How You Can Avoid Them

Homeowners in the Quad Cities area should know that remodeling pitfalls are pretty common; The cost of materials goes up, affecting your budget, you’ve chosen a contractor unfamiliar with the task, or you’ve missed a permit deadline. These remodeling pitfalls can and do happen to anyone. 

Here, we offer the four most common remodeling pitfalls and offer our tips on how to avoid them. 

Unrealistic Budget

Your renovating and remodeling project is ruled by your budget. From the contractor you hire to the materials they use, the bottom line is always in view. The success of any remodel lies in the budget. Failing to be realistic about your budget is one of the most common remodeling pitfalls. 

Shifting prices and supply chain issues impact your materials costs. Inflation and tariffs make budgeting that much more difficult. Affordability versus quality is an age-old problem that affects every budget. 

What is the best way to avoid starting with an unrealistic budget that may halt progress time and time again? Plan very carefully. Speak with experienced project managers, and don’t try to cut corners. Maintaining savings you can access, should your budget fall short, is a great way to avoid this common remodeling pitfall.

Not Obtaining the Right Permits

Before you even break ground, investigate which permits you must obtain. Every municipality or local government has building regulations that apply to remodeling as well. While not every project requires a permit, if you plan to add an apartment over your garage, increase your square footage, add an extra bathroom or outdoor kitchen, a sunroom, or do similar renovations the odds are likely you will need a permit. 

Failure to obtain the correct permits can cause a whole slew of problems and remodeling pitfalls. And down the line, you may incur significant fines if your project was completed without permits. The best way to avoid this common remodeling pitfall? Speak with your local government before you do anything. Some homeowners rely on their project managers to know which permits they need. That’s fine, but always perform your due diligence and double-check. It will save a lot of hassle and money later on. 

Attempting to DIY Certain Tasks

While the budget-friendly nature of DIY might be tempting, certain home renovation tasks require skilled, if not licensed, craftsmen. Unprepared homeowners are not always prepared to take on those tasks. Ultimately, DIY can end up draining more from your budget rather than saving you money.

But we get it. The cost of renovating your home causes sticker shock for many homeowners. You may think you can do some of the work yourself. And some of it you probably can take on. But consider working with your professional contractor and ask how you may assist in order to defray some of the costs. There are absolutely some aspects of your remodeling project where the professionals welcome your help. 

Taking on A Project That’s Too Big

When you first start planning your renovation, it can be easy to get carried away. What begins as expanding a closet suddenly turns into a dressing room or master suite. Your addition of a breakfast nook changes to include a chef’s kitchen that Bobby Flay would envy. Your dream home renovations can quickly tax your budget and timeline when they become too big. 

Be realistic about what you can afford and your timeline. Stick within those parameters. The best way to do that is by speaking to a design professional with experience. These individuals understand what’s involved in your custom remodel and can give you realistic expectations. 

Let Us Help You Avoid Remodeling Pitfalls

At Seiffert Custom Design, we understand the ins and outs of home renovations. When you come to us we’ll help you avoid the most common remodeling pitfalls and achieve the renovation of your dreams. Please contact Seiffert Home Design today and let’s get started on your dream home remodeling project.