The 6 Golden Rules of Renovation
Written by Belinda Albo – Interior Designer and Author
Read Belinda Albo’s Bio

Living through a home renovation isn't easy. But the results are worth it. To help you survive the experience here are 6 Golden Rules that may help you keep everything in perspective – not to mention your sanity.

 

1) A Positive Attitude. Put your best foot forward and learn to appreciate small amounts of progress. Rome wasn't built in a day. So even when things are going a little slower than expected a good attitude and maintaining a good relationship with your contractor will go a long way.

2) New Living Quarters. If you're doing major renovations do yourself a favour and move out of your house. The clouds of dust and debris will be a constant reminder of just how major a job you're undertaking. You owe it to your family and to yourself to be somewhere sane while work is being done.

3) Be Realistic. No renovation goes exactly as it was planned. Anything can happen and normally does. Just make sure you budget in a little more than you were quoted for all the unexpected problems that may come up – like leaky pipes, out-of-stock fixtures, must-have back-splash tiles and all the inspirational add-ons that put the finishing touches on your perfect space.

4) Be Smart. Before you go crazy and spend every cent you have, take the market value of your home into consideration. Get a professional opinion from a trusted real estate agent familiar with your area. This will help you decide how much is too much. Also, be sure to consider all the areas in your home where you can add energy efficiency – from appliances like refrigerators, dishwashers and washing machines to water saving toilets, sinks and shower fixtures. Also, choosing lighting fixtures that use compact fluorescent bulbs will also improve your monthly utility bills. These updated details will all help save you money in the long run.

5) One Thing Leads To Another. A new colour scheme, furniture and lighting plan just skim the surface of the countless decisions required when renovating. What needs to be remembered are the "small" things that can lead to "big changes". For instance, if you remove a wall because you're after an open concept, there's always ceiling patching to look after. This work often affects the floors in the adjoining rooms that will need refinishing for a unified look. So before making a snap decision it's important to consider what that change can affect and where it can lead.

6) Bask In The Glory. Once your renovation is complete with new kitchen counters, gleaming hardwood floors and layout, don’t forget to appreciate your hard work for creating a dream home that is now worth a premium value. That said, there is nothing like being the mastermind behind your own living space, a home that has your signature style all over it.