Eeeek...don't do this at home! Renovation mistakes to avoid

Renovations are stressful and can be costly - they can be even more costly (and stressful) if you start making mistakes.  Read the following don'ts listed below to help you get through your next renovation.



1.  Poor preparation
A proper renovation takes preparation – lots of it. A detailed plan will help keep you on budget and on time. Set out a very specific agreement with your contractor before the work begins and get everything in writing. You should be able to see on paper how your renovation is going to play out before it even begins.

2.   Buying before planning
I can’t stress this enough: Don’t buy materials or appliances until your renovation is planned out and all measurements have been taken. Online sales can be tempting, but that great deal on a 24-inch dishwasher isn’t going to save you any money if you only have room for an 18-inch model.

3.  Ignoring issues
When you tear down walls or rip up floors, there’s a good chance you’re going to find something you weren’t expecting, especially in an older home. Electrical and plumbing issues need to be dealt with before you close the walls back up. It might be an unexpected renovation cost up front, but it will save you tons of money in the long run.

4.  Cutting corners
Don’t do it. Much like ignoring issues, cutting corners on materials or finishes is only going to cause you problems in the future. It’s always better to go the extra mile and do it right the first time than have to go back and redo everything. Hire competent people to do the job, buy quality materials and take the time to complete all the necessary steps.

5.  Unlicensed trades
There are projects that any reliable contractor can take on; then there are specialized projects that require a licensed professional to complete. Electrical, plumbing, HVAC, asbestos removal and anything to do with gas or the structure of your home should always be completed by a licensed professional in that specific trade.

6.  Too much DIY
I love ambitious homeowners who want to take part in their home renovations, but there comes a time when it’s best to hand the reins over to the professionals. Projects like cabinetry installation, complicated tile work and carpentry are beyond the scope of most homeowners and can reduce the value of your home if done incorrectly. My advice? Involve yourself in the demo – it’s the most fun part, anyway!

 

Worst upgrades for the resale of your home

In terms of of resale the bathrooms and kitchen of your home are definite areas to spend (but not over spend).  Bu there are some areas in the home that are just a bad idea to upgrade and you will not see the return.

1.  Wall-to-wall carpet.  If you are replacing your carpet flooring before you sell, hardwood is a must.  That is what buyers are looking for.  Carpet just doesn't work for anyone with pets or allergies plus it's tough to give it a quick clean.  If you have hardwood now, take a close look at it - does it need any repairs? refinishing?

2.  Whirlpool baths, indoor hot tubs and saunas.  Once upon a time they were considered desirable but now many buyers find them passe and are afraid of what extra costs will be involved.

3.  Colourful bath fixtures.  If you are updating the toilets, sinks and tubs in your bathrooms to get ready for sale (even if it is years away), keep the fixtures white - not almond, grey, pink etc...White is neutral and clean so it will appeal to everyone.

4.  Ornate chandeliers, wall paper, textured walls and bold paint colours.  No.  Do not do this.  Keep it simple.  Stick with neutral paint colours.  Wall paper is just seen as a big removal project, textured walls were once a big trend but he trend is over and as for big splashy chandeliers - that's a personal touch that should go with you when you move, so just put in a simple chandelier for the potential new owners.

5.  Expensive sound systems and home theatres.  If you are doing updates for your home as you start to prepare it for sale, do not spend you money on this, it might attract some buyers but most audio/cinephiles would rather just install this themselves. If you have a large basement that would really suit a home theatre this is something your real estate agent could mention at open houses and showings.

6.  Laminate or vinyl flooring.   Although it has come a long way in terms of style and it is practical for pets, kids, allergies and easy cleaning - it isn't a feature that buyers like.  For only a bit more money, opt for ceramic, bamboo or hardwood.

7.  Removing bedrooms, turning a three bedroom into a two bedroom home.  Even if one or two bedrooms are on the small side - do not eliminate one.  Fewer bedrooms means you will likely get less money on the resale market.  Plus anyone looking for a three bedroom will not see a two bedroom home.  Two bedroom condo apartments are popular but not two bedroom homes.

8.  Swimming pools.  There is a lot of discussion among Realtors about pools.  Buyers often love them or hate them - so if you have a big yard that would fit a pool, let your realtor pitch that idea a open houses and showings. It's not an upgrade worth putting in.

9.  Appliance upgrades.  Stainless steel is certainly the 'colour' of choice for buyers but don't get crazy with professional grade appliances it's really not necessary.  Plus built-in espresso machines are seen as a concern if they breakdown and wine fridges are a personal item (not everyone drinks wine).

10.  Odd rooms.  If you are in an older home you probably have some attic space or neat little nook under the stares - do not spend the time, money or effort trying to convert these funky little spots into a room or bathroom.  Show your realtor these spaces and he/she will simply call them 'storage' which IS something buyers are all looking for.