Researching Your Renovation

In my opinion there shouldn’t be anything that could surprise us during a renovation. Research is the ONLY thing that can prepare us not only for the surprises but also on the timeline and what to expect from the very beginning. Of course nothing beats experience but going into your first renovation with open eyes will require research, time and patience. You should be starting out with the utmost confidence that we at least know everything we possibly can without any real world experience.

(This is a contributed post, for more information about my compensation please read my disclosure policy)

Major home renovation projects are some of the most satisfying you could imagine. Whether an old property has your heart of simply finds its way into your life, turning your attention towards improvements could undoubtedly see you enjoying a tailor-made space that you’d struggle to achieve any other way. 

Still, there’s no point pretending that this undertaking will be a walk in the park. The chances are that you’ll be pulling your hair out and asking what the hell you’ve taken on before you’re even halfway through. 

When you get to that stage, it’s essential to know that it’s a normal reaction to seeing your future home turned upside down. Luckily, there are ways to reduce the stress that this middle-project period can bring, and most of them rest with your research. 

Knowing what’s to come is, by far, your best chance at staying sane throughout. The question is, what exactly should you research before work commences?

The legal stuff

Understanding all legal requirements ahead of renovation work is always key. As such, you should take plenty of time to get all your building permit questions answered in advance.

This is your only real chance at avoiding mid-project meltdowns like sudden legal action or a need to undo everything you’ve done thus far. Instead, you’ll be able to ensure that no one has any legal standing for bringing a halt to your renovation proceedings at the worst moment. 

The work that will be happening

When we bring outside companies into a renovation project, we often let them get on without fully understanding the work necessary to bring our visions to life. Research will give you a solid idea of what to expect.

It’s therefore hardly surprising if you feel queasy at the sight of your walls half knocked through when you weren’t expecting it! In general terms, knowledge garnered early on is your best chance at overcoming this potential wobbly moment, and talking to professionals is the only way to make it happen.

Far from letting them get on with things, you should be sure to ask detailed questions, and even enquire about a breakdown of the steps involved so that you never walk in on unexpected shocks when it’s too late to do anything about them!

The timeline you can expect

Renovations often take longer than we think, which can lead to panic in itself if you were expecting to move in on a specific date and the house is still a mess. To avoid this issue, always be clear on timelines in advance. Doing the research will help give you more understanding as to WHY some projects fall behind.

Not only does this give you a light at the end of the tunnel that makes it easier to finally move in, but it also ensures you’re on top of the game at all times.

If you know there’s another month of work to go, for instance, you’re less liable to fall into meltdown when things don’t seem to be coming together. This, paired with the other pointers mentioned, should be enough to at least bring you some peace of mind during this potentially challenging process.

(This is a contributed post, for more information about my compensation please read my disclosure policy)