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A successful kitchen or bathroom remodel starts with proper planning, but many homeowners run into problems when they overlook key details early in the process. Here’s some information about two common mistakes that can lead to delays, added costs and unnecessary stress.
Mistake #1: Not Planning Your Budget Correctly
Many homeowners focus on finish materials without accounting for the full scope of the project. Before starting your remodel, you should break your budget into three main categories:
- Finish materials (cabinets, countertops, appliances, fixtures and other visible design elements)
- Planning and permitting costs (expenses related to design, engineering, permits and approvals)
- Labor and rough materials (the construction work and behind-the-scenes materials needed to complete the project)
It’s also important to set aside about 10 percent of your total budget as a safety net for unexpected expenses. This can help cover surprises that come up during construction, such as inspection requirements, changes to the original plan or issues discovered after walls are opened.
Mistake #2: Waiting Too Long to Order Materials
Products like cabinets, windows, doors and specialty fixtures can have long lead times, so a delay with one item can slow down your entire project and create scheduling issues for your contractor. By planning ahead and ordering materials based on the project timeline, you can help ensure everything arrives when it’s needed.