10 Ways to Make Your Renovation Easier and Stress-Free
Renovating a home can be an exciting yet overwhelming process. From managing budgets to dealing with unexpected delays, it’s easy for stress levels to rise.
We speak to Renae Leith-Manos from Leith& CO who has been managing renovations for over 20 years about how to reduce the stress and make things smoother.
She says with the right approach and careful planning, a renovation experience can be smooth and hassle-free.
Renovating a home doesn’t have to be a stressful ordeal. By hiring the right project manager, choosing reliable contractors, planning carefully, and maintaining open communication, you can ensure a seamless and successful renovation.
With a proactive approach, realistic expectations and the right team by your side, your dream home is well within reach.
Here are Renae’s ten tips to help you navigate your project with ease.
1. Hire the Right Project Manager
One of the most effective ways to reduce stress during a renovation is to hire an experienced project manager. A professional project manager acts as the central point of communication, coordinating contractors, managing timelines, and handling unexpected issues.
They ensure the renovation stays on track and within budget, saving you valuable time and money. Investing in a skilled project manager allows you to focus on the bigger picture, and to focus on your day to day life rather than the renovation minute by minute, while they handle the day-to-day challenges.
2. Choose a Reliable Builder
Selecting the right builder is just as crucial as finding the right project manager. A reputable builder will have a proven track record, strong references, and the necessary licenses and insurance.
Take the time to interview multiple builders, request detailed quotes, and review past projects. Transparency and good communication are key indicators of a trustworthy contractor who will work in your best interest.
3. Set a Realistic Budget (but always have a Contingency Fund)
One of the biggest stressors in renovations is unexpected expenses. Many of these are unavoidable and do not present until a property is demolished and renovating is underway.
To avoid financial strain, establish a clear budget that includes all expected costs, from materials to labour. Additionally, set aside at least 10-15% of your budget as a contingency fund for unforeseen expenses. Your project manager can guide you of the potential areas costs could blow out, and how much they may change.
This financial cushion will help you manage surprises without derailing your project.
4. Plan Your Renovation Timeline Carefully
Timing is everything in a renovation. Consider factors such as seasonal weather conditions, public holidays, and availability of contractors.
If you have a specific move-in date or milestone to meet, work backward from that deadline to create a realistic schedule. Avoid rushing the process, as this can lead to costly mistakes and unnecessary stress. Renovation timelines often blow out again due to circumstances which cannot be seen or predicted beforehand.
5. Obtain Necessary Permits Early
Navigating building regulations and council approvals including heritage details can be a complex process. Research the permits required for your renovation and apply for them well in advance - or ask your project manager to do so early.
Delays in obtaining approvals can stall your project and lead to added expenses.
Consulting with your project manager or builder can help streamline this process.
6. Prioritise a Thoughtful Design Plan
A well-thought-out design plan is essential for a smooth renovation. Work closely with an architect or interior designer to create a blueprint that aligns with your lifestyle, needs, expectations and aesthetic preferences.
Having a detailed design plan in place helps minimise last-minute changes and keeps the renovation process efficient.
7. Plan Your Living Arrangements
If your renovation is extensive, consider whether you can live in your home during the process or if alternative accommodations are necessary.
Living in a construction zone can be stressful and inconvenient, so weigh the pros and cons of temporarily relocating. If staying in the home, create designated “construction-free” zones to maintain some normalcy.
8. Communicate Clearly with Contractors
Effective communication with your project manager, builder, and contractors is crucial to avoiding misunderstandings and delays.
Schedule regular check-ins, ask for progress updates, and address concerns promptly.
Keep written records of agreements, quotes, and project timelines to ensure accountability.
9. Choose Quality Materials Wisely And Consider Healthy Building Materials
Investing in durable, high-quality materials can save you money in the long run - and many building materials have “healthier” alternatives which can seriously effect the health of everyone who lives in the finished home. It is worth considering this issue, especially if you have health issues.
While it may be tempting to cut costs by opting for cheaper alternatives, lower-quality materials may require repairs or replacements sooner than expected. Work with your contractor to find a balance between affordability and longevity.
10. Stay Flexible and Keep a Positive Mindset
Despite thorough planning, unexpected challenges can arise during a renovation. Whether it’s a material delay, weather issue, or minor design change, staying flexible and adaptable is key.
Trust your team, focus on the end goal, and remember that every challenge is a step toward creating your dream space.
You can read more about Renae on her sites below…..
Renae Leith-Manos
https://leithandco.com.au/
www.renaesworld.com.au
www.bondibeauty.com.au
www.renae.com.au
+61405701142
