10 Mistakes to Avoid When Renovating
10 Mistakes homeowners could make when planning a renovation project
When planning a home renovation project with a substantial cost, there are a variety of mistakes that homeowners can make. This is particularly relevant in the Los Angeles, Calabasas, Malibu, Agoura Hills, Westlake Village, and Thousand Oaks areas where I practice. Here are 10 common mistakes to avoid:
Overlooking your HOA’s architectural guidelines: If you are a member of a homeowners or property association, you can count on your HOA having architectural guidelines in the CC&R documents that you are legally obliged to follow. Typically there is a architectural approval process that you need to comply with involving an application by a designer or architect. It’s always wise to clear this hurdle before committing lots of resources to a new construction or renovation project.
Choosing cheap materials to save money: While it's important to stay within budget, choosing cheap materials can end up costing you more in the long run. Low-quality materials are more likely to break or wear out quickly, requiring repairs or replacements. For example, opt for higher-quality doors and cabinetry made of solid materials rather than particle-boards or other fillers.
Not planning for unexpected costs: Even with a large budget, unexpected costs can arise during a renovation project. Be sure to budget for contingencies, and work with your contractor to anticipate potential issues. Oftentimes, owners will opt to pay more for things once they start doing research on products and appliances. Having some margin in your budget is always a good idea.
Ignoring the home's architectural style: Renovations should be consistent with the home's architectural style to maintain its integrity and ensure a cohesive design. This is where leaning on your architect or interior designer’s expertise will come in handy. Try to make design choices and selection in the context of the overall material palette and every room’s selections so that the design feels cohesive.
Not prioritizing energy efficiency: Investing in energy-efficient upgrades can save you money on utility bills in the long run. Consider upgrading to energy-efficient windows, appliances, solar, and HVAC systems.
Not considering resale value: While it's important to design the renovation to meet your current needs, it's also important to consider resale value. Opt for upgrades that will add value to your home and appeal to potential buyers. Dollar for dollar, the most ROI is typically found in increasing the square footage of your home, followed by additional bedrooms in certain markets.
Skipping the permit process: Even with a large budget, it's important to obtain the necessary permits for your renovation project. Skipping this step can result in costly fines and legal issues. A benefit of working with a professional architect is that they will ensure you are navigating this process appropriately and that no code or zoning violations will be present in the finished project. Unpermitted violations often come under scrutiny during a home sale transaction or whenever new planning and permitting projects are undertaken.
Not working with a professional architect: While it may be tempting to save money by designing the renovation yourself, it's important to work with a professional designer who can help you make the most of your budget and create a cohesive, tasteful design. An architect is uniquely qualified to understand not only the aesthetics of architectural design, but also the technical information and details needed to ensure a well-built, lasting work of construction. Read my article about reasons to hire an Architect.
