We have been renovating for years! Sometimes I feel like a broken record when I talk to my clients. But there are 5 things to know when renovating. These things come up in conversation with every reno. I’m not trying to be a Debby Downer. I just want you to mentally prepare! Let me explain.
1. It’s Not For the Faint of Heart:
Renovating is one of those things we read about on Instagram and watch TV shows about on HGTV. But the reality is, it’s more than a before and after reel and it takes much longer than 30 minutes. It’s messy, dusty, and looks unfinished for a very long time. Honestly, it looks unfinished until the last few days. I can’t think of one client who hasn’t called me in a panic during the final week saying, “there’s no way you’re gonna finish”. But the truth is, it takes a long time and you can’t judge it until it’s done!
2. Unforeseen Things Will Come Up:
Whenever you’re removing the old, you have to expect there to be surprises underneath. You’re at the mercy of the guy who did it before you. That means there could be water damage, uneven floors, messed up drywall, termites, shoddy electrical and plumbing, etc. I’ve seen it all. But the beauty of demoing the old is that, once we find it, we fix it!
3. It Will Take Longer Than Expected:
We live in a world of delay. It doesn’t matter how good the crew is, or how “on it” they are. You can order everything on time, but we’re at the mercy of the shipping companies. And with our economy the way it is, you can expect delays. Not only that, but if an item is damaged upon arrival, we have to return and wait for a new one. The name of the game is to BE FLEXIBLE.
4. Changing Things Once Work Has Begun Costs Money:
That should be a no brainer, but if you add things to the scope of work that wasn’t in the original bid, it costs money. If you don’t like what you see once it’s built/installed and want it removed or changed, it costs money. Ask for pricing when you want to change something so you’re not surprised with a bill! Work with your designer up front to nail down as many specifics as possible. Take the time to pick the exact items you want (plumbing fixtures, mirrors, lights, etc) so you stay within the budget!
5. It’s Worth It!
I always tell couples, if their marriage can survive a reno, it can survive anything. I’m half joking… but also, not HAHA! It’s long, it’s messy, and it’s expensive. The perfect storm of things that add stress to your life. But at the end of the day, you get the room of your dreams! And it’s definitely worth it!
Motivational Ending
The reason I share these things is because I want to encourage you to renovate! It’s the best thing ever. Taking a space you spend most of your time in and turning into your dream home, dream kitchen, dream bathroom, etc. is the most rewarding thing ever (just take a look at ours)! But also, be prepared! Nothing worthwhile is EASY. So, bite the bullet, get your mind right, and let’s DO THIS!
xoxo Emily
