5 Renovation Mistakes That Can Cost You Big Time

The Simple Sum

20 Mar 2025

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Planning to renovate your space? Sounds exciting, right? But before you start tearing down walls or splurging on trendy decor, let’s make sure you don’t fall into these common mistakes that could drain your budget and turn your dream home into a financial nightmare. Avoid these pitfalls to save yourself (and your wallet) from unnecessary stress!

Not setting a realistic budget

Renovations almost always end up costing more than you expect. Even if you’ve carefully budgeted and planned for expenses, unexpected surprises – like hidden water damage or a must-have upgrade – can quickly push you over budget. That’s why experts recommend setting aside an extra 10% to 20% as a cushion to cover any unforeseen costs. Be specific about your budget breakdown. Instead of just estimating a lump sum, categorise your expenses (materials, labour, permits, etc.). This way, you’ll have better control over your spending and can adjust it if needed. Also, get multiple quotes from contractors to avoid overpaying and research the cost of materials beforehand so you won’t be caught off guard.

DIY-ing everything (when you shouldn’t)

You might think that you can save on renovation costs by DIYing things yourself, but that is until you realise you’ve messed up the plumbing and now your sink is flooding. While painting walls and assembling furniture are safe DIY projects, electrical work, plumbing, and anything structural should be left to the pros. A botched job can end up costing you far more than if you had hired a professional from the start. Faulty wiring can lead to electrical fires, bad plumbing can cause leaks or mold issues, and some DIY mistakes may even void warranties or violate building codes. If you're determined to do some of the work yourself, do your research, follow reliable tutorials, and know when to step back. Sometimes, the smartest DIY move is calling in an expert before things go wrong!

Ignoring functionality & storage needs

Ever been in a beautiful home that just… doesn’t work? Maybe the cabinets don’t open all the way, the fridge door blocks a walkway, or there’s never enough storage. Aesthetics is important, but so is practicality. Before finalising your design, think about how you actually use your space. Where will you store everyday items? Is there enough counter space? Will you regret those open shelves when they start collecting dust? Function first, style second. One trick is to map out your daily routine and imagine yourself moving through the different spaces. Would it still feel efficient and comfortable? Investing in smart storage solutions, like built-in cabinets or multi-functional furniture, can make a huge difference in keeping your home clutter-free.

Following trends blindly & forgetting to future-proof

Trends come and go, and what looks stylish now might look outdated in a few years. Instead of going all-in on passing fads, stick to timeless designs for big-ticket items (like floors and cabinets) and add personality with smaller, easy-to-update touches like paint, decor, or furniture. While you’re at it, think long-term. Will your home still be able to meet your needs in the future? Future-proofing means choosing durable materials, considering energy-efficient upgrades, and making sure your design can adapt as your life changes. For example, if you plan to stay in your home for an extended period of time, installing energy-efficient windows or smart home features might be worth the investment. Or, if you’re thinking about reselling the house after living there for a few years, neutral colors and classic layouts will attract more potential buyers than hyper-trendy designs.

Not planning for the mess and disruption

Renovations are messy; it will be noisy, and you’ll find dust everywhere! If you are living in the space while renovations are going on, you’ll have to prepare yourself for all the chaos! Where will you cook if your kitchen is out of action? Can you work from home with all the drilling and hammering? If you find that you can’t, you might have to go out for meals or work at a co-working space. These are additional costs that often go unbudgeted. Set realistic expectations, plan ahead for essentials (like food and WiFi!), and mentally prepare yourself; it’s all part of the process! Also, don’t forget to communicate with your contractors and neighbors. Let them know about potential noise disruptions, and if possible, schedule work hours that won’t interfere too much with your daily routine. A little planning can make the whole experience much more manageable.

Your renovation, your rules – but plan wisely!

At the end of the day, renovations are all about creating a space that fits your lifestyle and personality. But no matter how big or small your project is, careful planning can save you time, money, and stress. Learn from these mistakes, make informed decisions, and you’ll be well on your way to a home that’s both beautiful and functional.