This can end up being one of the costliest mistakes you can make. We suggest measuring for cabinets only after you have your appliance specifications so you can compare them to the plans with your cabinet installer. Not only can it be extremely costly if cabinet measurements are off, but it will also set a job back at least a couple weeks.
2. Choosing the Cheapest Contractor
We recommend getting at least three bids when you're looking for a contractor and make sure to get a written estimate from each of them so you can do a fair comparison. A well-written estimate should include details (e.g., exact cabinets, hardware, flooring, and install costs, not just "new room"), a waste removal plan, permit costs, insurance, general contractor fee, an explanation of how design changes are handled, and the warranty on the work. If your estimate doesn't include these, the contractor is either not very thorough or underestimating the project. This often creates scenarios in which unexpected change orders occur. Although the lowest bid may seem like the best choice, and it very well could be, it not only increases the chance of change orders, it often results in a hurried or sub-standard quality job.
3. Anticipating and Budgeting for the "Unknown"
A detailed estimate will help reduce change orders however there are some things that can't be "known" until the walls are opened. Therefore it is a good idea to set aside 10-15% of the total project cost for unexpected expenses. This is especially true for older homes or homes that have been remodeled several times in the past.
While it may be more cost-effective to keep an existing bathroom layout, it doesn't make sense to keep a non-functional design. Some of the best choices in a remodel are the changes made to the overall flow of the space, so if you're already putting the time and money in, you should make sure that you're happy with all aspects of the project.
5. Assuming You Want Hardwood Floors
Depending on your household,
hardwood floors might not be the best option. For people with pets and/or kids, there will be more wear and tear than usual, so single-board laminate might be better as it's more durable, while still giving that hardwood look.
6. Making Your Kitchen Too Trendy
Going too trendy in your kitchen can hurt you in the long-run as
design trends go out of style, which can bring down your home's resale value. You'll also want to avoid not overdoing it on your appliances so the overall storage and counter space isn't compromised.
7. Not Ordering Enough Flooring or Tile
During flooring and tile installation, it is inevitable that there will be some cuts and breakage. It's a good rule of thumb to buy 20% extra materials since there is no guarantee you'll be able to find an exact match if you need to order more. And if the materials are special ordered, there will be a substantial delay in the project. Besides, it's nice to have extra in case of damage in the future. Either way, if you end up with several unopened boxes, most major retailers will let you return it for a refund, so you shouldn't get stuck with a ton of extra flooring.
