What I Learned the Hard Way While Renovating My First Home
Redesigning your home can feel overwhelming. No matter how much research you do or how many YouTube tutorials you watch, dealing with dust, debris, and endless options can make the process very stressful.
According to a recent report from Aviva, around seven million homeowners in the UK plan to renovate within the next two years. These homeowners expect to spend about £14,000 each on their projects.
Over the years, I have experienced the ups and downs of doing a renovation, and how it is not always easy.
If you're planning a renovation, the lessons I've learned may help you save time, money, and stress. Here's what you should know before you start.
Key Lessons Learned While Renovating First Home
Here are some key lessons that I have learned while renovating my first home:
Lesson 1: Plan for Delays and Set Realistic Timelines
Many people think a home remodel will take just a couple of months. After all, how hard can it be to make some changes? However, the reality is often quite different. Delayed deliveries and unexpected plumbing issues can easily push the schedule beyond what you’ve planned.
Recent data from The Financial Times found that over half of renovation projects in the UK took longer than planned. The main reasons for the delay were issues with getting planning approvals and design shifts during the projects. This highlights the importance of thoughtful planning and setting realistic timelines to manage expectations and avoid common mistakes.
The best advice is to allow extra time in your timeline and be ready for delays that may happen. Set realistic timelines from the start and stay flexible to avoid frustration.
Lesson 2: Don’t Let Decisions Overwhelm You
Deciding is one of the most challenging aspects of a renovation. With so many choices, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed.
The lesson is here to focus on your primary goals. Choose options that suit your situation and budget. Don’t stress about details or aim for perfection. This mindset will save you time and energy, and help you avoid unnecessary stress.
Lesson 3: Set a Contingency Fund to Avoid Budget Creep
A renovation budget can change quickly once the work begins. Small costs can add up, like a few extra pounds for better materials or upgrades. Soon, the budget may exceed what you originally planned.
Many homeowners spend more than they planned due to poor preparation, unexpected costs, or quick decisions.
For managing your budget well, a comprehensive resource can help you offer guidance. It shows you how to renovate effectively while keeping costs down.
To avoid this, set aside a contingency fund for unexpected costs. Keep track of every expense and watch out for small purchases that can accumulate fast. Renovations are rarely cheap, but with careful planning, it’s easier to manage costs.
Lesson 4: Hire Skilled Tradespeople to Avoid Costly Mistakes
Choosing the right tradespeople is crucial. Opting for the lowest price or the quickest start may seem appealing, but it can lead to issues later. Compromising on quality to save money often results in higher costs in the long run.
Do your research: look at reviews, ask for recommendations, and check credentials. A skilled tradesperson will do the job right the first time, saving you time, reducing stress, and lowering costs.
If you’re unsure how to begin, a reliable guide can help you find reputable contractors for your renovation.
Lesson 5: Plan For the waste Management
By week three, the garden was overflowing with rubble, old units, and bits of plasterboard. I couldn’t move because of dust and junk. I wish I’d thought ahead and booked a skip earlier - it would’ve saved so much stress. I ended up arranging one through ProSkips, who offer services all over the UK. If you live locally, you can even hire a skip in Croydon directly on their website.
The lesson is here to get organised early instead of in a hurry where any delay in the service actively affects your project. This will help your project run smoothly, save time, and avoid problems.
Lesson 6: Know When to DIY and When to Hire a Professional
DIY projects can be enticing, but it’s crucial to know when to hire professionals, especially for electrical and plumbing work. Tasks like painting or tiling can be manageable with time and effort. Recognising your DIY limits can save time and ensure safety. If a task feels too complex, seek help and focus on what you do best.
Interestingly, over 9 in 10 (94%) of homeowners hired professionals for their renovation projects. The most commonly hired professionals were electricians (59%) and plumbers (56%). This trend highlights the importance of knowing when to seek expert assistance, particularly for complex or safety-related tasks.
Conclusion
Renovating your home can be exciting yet challenging. Keep a few key points in mind: expect obstacles, set a realistic budget, hire qualified professionals, and stay organised throughout the process.
While the process may seem daunting, creating a space that reflects your personality makes it worthwhile. A well-planned renovation can transform your house into a home, offering valuable insights and a sense of success.
Take a moment to breathe, plan carefully, and enjoy the journey ahead; your dream home is within reach.
