How to plan your renovation in 5 easy steps
Many of us begin the new year with plans to complete revamp our homes. It can easy to get carried away thinking about plans for re-designs and re-decorating. But every project, whether you’re renovating an old or new property, has its ups and downs. Careful planning means you can avoid any pitfalls, from building regulations to completing finishing touches. We’ve put together 5 simple steps to show you how to plan your renovation as smoothly as possible:
5 steps for a worry-free renovation
Plan your renovation
Renovating a property can feel like an overwhelming task. Before you begin, write a plan of what you are going to do. It can be helpful to complete a few drawings of how the finished product will look. Evaluate the amount of space you have to work with, and base your plans around that. Consider any knock-on effects of decorating, or re-modelling.
Set yourself a budget
It’s important to be realistic about your budget when renovating. Unfortunately, there can sometimes be a difference between our ideal homes and the resources we have. Consider what you can afford, and add 10% as a contingency plan to cover any unexpected costs. When discussing what you can afford with tradespeople, be open and honest.
Do your research
Do very thorough research, because last thing you want to do is change your mind half way through the project, So ensure that you consider all the options for your renovation, and make an informed decision.
Is your renovation possible?
Be honest about whether or not your design ideas will fit in to your project space. We all want a king-size bed, or lush sofa, but be careful not to overcrowd a small room.
Big floor and wall tiles are on-trend, but will they compliment the space you are working with? If you are putting an extension on to your home, make sure you carefully consider planning permissions.
Choose reputable tradespeople
Always research tradespeople beforehand. Avoid using word-of-mouth, and make sure they are an approved professional from a reputable body. If possible, see work their previous work and ask for a quote. Top tip: don’t always go for the lowest quote – sometimes prices are very low for a reason.