What Every Homeowner Should Know Before Starting a Renovation

 

Renovation.

It’s that magical word that makes a homeowner truly feel like a homeowner.

No more having to submit a service ticket to get something fixed. No need to ask anyone’s permission. Just the chance to turn an outdated space into a key component of your dream home.

While there is nothing wrong with getting excited about the prospect of transforming your property, it is important to keep a few things in mind before getting to work. Whether you are attempting a small touch-up or more expansive overhaul, keep reading as we touch on some pertinent realities of any home renovation project.

Be Realistic with Your Budget

Too many homeowners put the cart before the horse when it comes to renovation.

They jump on that HELOC offer sent by their bank and start work before thinking the dollars and cents through completely.

Issues invariably arise in the construction world. Weather delays. Material delivery issues. Labor shortages. Rework.

All of these will extend the timeline and cause the project to go over budget. 

Therefore, no matter how comprehensive and all-inclusive the quote, be sure to have an additional 20% saved up just in case. This will limit the risk of having the project sit in a state of partial-completion due to a lack of funds. 

Know Your Limits As a DIYer

We live in a DIY world.

From how to sew on a button to how to grill the most epic wings, any novice can get a crash course tutorial from a blog or video and get the job done themselves, saving money and boosting self-efficacy in the process.

For better or worse, this also includes home improvement.

While some tasks, such as hanging new blinds or upgrading the light switches throughout the house, are perfectly acceptable as DIY projects, others are best left to the professionals.

Professional contractors have the licenses, bonds, and insurance to safely–and legally–complete renovations in their niche. They also have the correct tools, such as the best circular saw blade for cutting stone, to do the job with the utmost precision. 

Construction Waste Adds Up Quickly

It’s understandable to look ahead to the finished product when performing a renovation. Those 3D renderings and VR simulations of the updated space can be quite captivating until the real thing is brought into existence. 

With that said, failure to plan for adequate waste removal will make the new space inaccessible. 

Torn-up drywall, old flooring, and any other type of construction debris is not only unsafe and unsightly but can also be a haven for pests and moisture. The best advice is to rent a residential dumpster for the duration of the project. This guarantees that debris can be removed piece by piece and hauled off on schedule. It also eliminates the risk of any unexpected dumping fees at local transfer stations. 

Keep Sustainability at the Forefront

Even if your renovation is not something overtly sustainability-centric (solar panels, green roof, etc.), it is crucial to keep sustainability in mind throughout the process. Not only will a sustainable renovation lower your ongoing energy costs, but it can potentially add value to your property in an increasingly conscientious market. 

Therefore, be on the lookout for creative ways to enhance sustainability throughout the renovation process. New windows not only boost curb appeal, but they promote natural light transmission for reduced reliance on electricity. Sourcing the best insulation tools to cut materials such as recycled denim or mineral wool can greatly improve the R-value of the building envelope for less HVAC consumption. Stately quartz countertops offer the elegance of natural stone but have a nonporous fabrication that limits ongoing maintenance and upkeep requirements. 

Exterior Spaces Are the New “Dream” Projects

Chef’s kitchens. Luxe master suites. Spa-like bathrooms.

These are the types of “wow” renovations that homeowners have traditionally dreamed about.

Add one more name to the list in 2025: exterior living spaces.

Given the rise in remote work, online learning, and other types of digital lifestyles, creating ways to escape the daily four walls without leaving the property is a top priority in modern homes.

There are some specific means of crafting exterior space to transform it from “picnic area” to a true extension of the home’s square footage. Install a pergola for weather protection and architectural dimension. Choose composite patio flooring that closely resembles natural stone but does a better job of resisting moisture to help maintain ongoing appearances. Consider decorative screen panels for an additional element of shading while also adding privacy. 

Be Meticulously Prepared Ahead of Your Next Home Renovation

Renovation is one of the most satisfying–and potentially value-adding–aspects of being a homeowner. With that said, it is important to be adequately prepared before beginning work. From setting a realistic budget to exploring functional exterior additions, consider any of the ideas listed above before beginning work on your next home renovation. For more of the latest trends in real estate and home improvement, explore the content at Clear Mortgage for the leading insights in the industry!

Author Bio

Brian Jeffries is a freelance writer who loves sharing his knowledge and expertise on construction projects and materials. He lives in Winter Park, Florida where he enjoys spending time with his wife and working on projects in his spare time. Brian’s work as a freelance writer can be found on Building Product Advisor, a construction industry resource site.