Ready to turn your home into the oasis you’ve always dreamed of? At Polli Construction, Inc., we’re well-versed in making Vermont homeowners’ dreams come true. However, after more than 35 years of experience, we’ve learned that many homeowners make a few common mistakes. If you’re preparing to invest in your home, here are some common mistakes to avoid when renovating.

Polli Construction, Inc. has provided Vermont homeowners with quality construction services for over 35 years. If you’re looking for a general contractor, only work with an expert you can trust. Contact us today to schedule a free estimate.

A lot goes into a home renovation – so much so that it can be easy to underestimate the amount of planning that is necessary. One of the easiest mistakes homeowners make is jumping into renovations before developing a thorough plan. Consider factors such as furniture layout, ventilation, functionality, and appliance sizes, to name a few. Your renovations will take time; be sure to spend some of it on planning.

Measuring Incorrectly

Meticulous planning includes taking proper measurements for your project. Another common issue homeowners run into is taking measurements incorrectly. This mistake is common, and it can be costly if you don’t catch it early. Whether it’s due to rushing or lack of experience, incorrect measurements are something to avoid at all costs. Rely on “old faithful” (measure twice, cut once) or consider hiring someone to measure everything adequately.

Setting An Unclear Budget

Home renovations are a significant investment and can add up quickly if you haven’t set a clear budget. As thorough as an estimate may be, unforeseen challenges can still come up mid-project. One of the biggest home renovation mistakes is not creating and sticking to an accurate budget. Make sure to have an open, transparent conversation with your contractor about your budget before agreeing to any work.

Buying Cheap Materials

As you try to maximize your budget, it can be tempting to choose cheaper materials. However, keep in mind why you are doing a home renovation project in the first place. The purpose of renovations is to improve your home and better suit your needs/wants. By selecting durable materials, you will not have to worry about replacing them in the next 3-5 years. Just remember: quality over quantity in all circumstances when it comes to home renovation.

Doing It All Yourself

A “DIY” home project can be a great way to save money and maybe even teach yourself a thing or two. As professionals, we have to warn clients about the potential nightmare of trying to tackle a comprehensive renovation on their own. We’re not only experts in our field, with the tools and resources to complete your project, but also quality contractors who are fully insured in case anything goes wrong.

Failing To Get Permits

You don’t want your home renovation to be stalled (or even shut down) because you didn’t obtain the proper permits. Before doing any work, make sure you have the permits you’ll need. In Vermont, any new construction or change of use (i.e., remodeling a garage) requires a building permit. A building permit may also cover other work, such as plumbing, mechanical, or electrical work, but these may also require separate permits. In any case, check with your local town clerk to confirm exactly what you need.

Click here to learn more about Permitting in Vermont.

Focusing On Trends

It’s easy to fall into the trap of following whatever is trendy when renovating your home. While a stylish home certainly isn’t a bad thing, nothing beats quality design. Keep in mind that trends are often short-lived, and you should consider your home’s resale value. Nothing should influence your home renovation more than your investment goals.

Having An Unrealistic Timeline

As mentioned before, renovating a home takes time. Whether you’re remodeling a basement or renovating your entire house, you need reasonable expectations for when the work will be completed. This is another reason it’s so important to work with a licensed, qualified contractor, as they can create a realistic timeline for the work you want done.

Sacrificing Function For Form

Of course, whenever we renovate our home, we want to improve its appearance. However, remodeling your home without considering any practical elements can minimize your investment. If you’re going to take the time and spend the money to improve your home, do it thoroughly and make any necessary structural or internal improvements as well.

Changing Plans Often

Simply put, you need to have all your ducks in a row before starting your home renovation. Once plans are finalized, any changes you make can and will cost you time and money. This can also leave you less satisfied with the final result. If you feel unsure about your plans, consult your contractor before proceeding and ask for their advice.

Remodeling Too Soon

Understanding renovation costs and the importance of an accurate, closely followed budget cannot be stressed enough. Some homeowners jump into a remodel before properly preparing. You need to be financially ready for your renovations, and you should also have lived in your space long enough to know what you want to renovate and why.

Overlooking Architectural Elements

Architectural elements such as doors, windows, and floors can significantly affect your home’s appearance and flow. Don’t overlook these elements during renovations. Choosing the correct architectural elements for your house will help you get the most out of your investment.

Avoid These Home Renovation Mistakes

Your dream home may be just a phone call away. We hope this list helps you avoid these common mistakes when renovating your home. Contact POLLI Construction, Inc. for your Vermont home improvement needs. We have proudly served Chittenden County and the surrounding areas for over three decades! Ready to take the next step? Schedule your free estimate today, it’s free!