Home Renovations: How to Set a Budget (+ Stick to it!)

Deepblue Direct August 13, 2022

Are you considering renovating your home? Congratulations! A well-executed renovation can add tremendous value to your property. But before you get too carried away, it's important to set a realistic budget and stick to it. In this blog post, we'll outline some tips for doing just that. So read on for helpful advice on how to manage your money while renovating your home.

Consider the size of the space you’re working with

When planning a home renovation, one of the most important considerations is the size of the space you're working with. If the extension is too small, it will feel cramped and uncomfortable to work in. On the other hand, if the extension is too large, it will dominate the room and make it feel less inviting. The best way to strike a balance is to choose a size that feels both comfortable and functional. In addition, be sure to leave enough room for walkways and storage - this is particularly important in a small kitchen extension, where floor space may be limited. With a little planning, you can create a that is both aesthetically pleasing and practical.

Do your research on themes, layouts and more

all white new kitchen


Homeowners who are considering a renovation often spend hours looking at pictures in magazines and scrolling through websites for inspiration. While this is a great way to get an idea of the overall look you want to achieve, it’s important to do your research before making any decisions. Every home is different, and what works in one space may not work in another. It's also true that everyone has different tastes when it comes to decor, style and layout. That’s why it’s important to consult with your partner (if you live with one) or a professional before making any decisions about your renovation.


An experienced designer or contractor will be able to help you navigate the various options and find the best solution for your space. They can also offer advice on layout, materials and more, ensuring that your renovation is both beautiful and functional. So before you start tearing down walls or picking out paint colours, be sure to do your research. It could make all the difference in the success of your project. If you're on a budget, do your own research by checking out home improvement stores, visiting model homes and scouring websites (like ours!) for inspiration.

Consider the labour costs

Home renovation can be a costly and time-consuming endeavour. In addition to the cost of materials, there are also labour costs to consider. Hiring a professional contractor can add significantly to the overall cost of a renovation project. However, there are some ways to reduce labour costs. One option is to hire a handyman for smaller jobs. Another option is to tackle some of the work yourself. Although it may take longer to complete the project, doing some of the work yourself can save you money on labour costs. But before you take on any major projects, be sure to do your research and create a realistic budget. By planning and being mindful of your budget, you can ensure that your home renovation doesn't break the bank.

Don't settle for the first estimate - ask around

If you're planning a home renovation, it's important to get multiple estimates before settling on a contractor. Not all contractors are created equal, and you'll want to make sure you're getting the best possible value for your money. When you're getting estimates, be sure to ask around for recommendations. Friends, family, and neighbours may have had good experiences with certain contractors that they can recommend. Once you've collected a few estimates, take the time to compare them side by side. Make sure you're looking at all the important factors, including price, timeline, and the scope of work. With a little bit of research, you can be confident that you're choosing the right contractor for your needs.

Listen to professional advice

Planning a home renovation can be a daunting task. There are so many decisions to make and details to consider. It's important to do your research and get input from professionals to avoid making costly mistakes. For example, if you're planning on adding an extension to your home, you'll need to know about things like building codes and regulations. A professional architect or contractor can help you navigate these waters and ensure that your project is done correctly and to legal standards.


The same goes for electrical, plumbing, and HVAC work. Unless you're a licensed professional, it's best to leave these kinds of jobs to the experts. Not only will they be able to do the work more efficiently, but they'll also be able to identify any potential problems before they become big issues. In the end, following professional advice will save you time, money, and stress when renovating your home.

Consider how much value your improvements will add

Before embarking on any home improvement project, it is important to consider how much value the improvements will add to your home. For some projects, the return on investment (ROI) can be quite high, while for others, the value added may be more subtle. For example, a kitchen renovation is likely to add more resale value to your home than a new coat of paint in the living room.

However, even small improvements can make a big difference in how you enjoy your home. If you are planning to stay in your home for the foreseeable future, you can simply choose projects that will suit your needs and taste. Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to undertake a particular home improvement project should be based on a combination of factors, including ROI, personal preference, and the overall condition of your home.

Keep the decorating costs in mind

Homeowners planning a renovation often forget to factor in the cost of decorating their newly updated space. However, the cost of paint, flooring, window treatments, and other finishing touches can quickly add up. For example, painting a typical room costs an average of £100 to £200. Therefore, it's important to consider the cost of decorating when planning your renovation budget. If you're on a tight budget, there are ways to save on decorating costs. For example, painting is a relatively cheap way to update the look of a room. And if you're handy with a paintbrush, you can even do it yourself to save even more money.


Adding new flooring can also be costly, with hardwood floors costing upwards of £25 per square metre. Furthermore, window treatments can range in price from £250+, depending on the type and size of the windows. When planning a home renovation, it is important to keep the cost of decorating in mind to stay within budget. By being mindful of the potential costs, you can save money and still end up with a picture-perfect space.

Think about what you can DIY (and what you can’t!)

 kitchen renovation near a window


Home renovation can be a daunting task, but with careful planning and a bit of creativity, it can also be a great opportunity to put your stamp on your home. When it comes to deciding what to DIY and what to leave to the professionals, there are a few things to keep in mind.

First, consider the scope of the project. A simple paint job may be something you feel confident tackling, but if you’re considering gutting your kitchen, it’s probably best to leave that to the experts. Second, think about your skills and experience. If you’ve never done any type of home renovation before, tackling a major project may not be the best idea. However, there are plenty of smaller projects that even novice do-it-yourselfers can handle with confidence. Finally, don’t forget to factor in the cost of materials and tools. If you’re on a tight budget, DIYing may not be the best option. But if you’re willing to invest in quality materials and tools, you can achieve professional results without breaking the bank.

Decide what aspects you can (and can't) compromise on

When it comes to home renovation, there are some aspects that you can compromise on and others that you can't. For example, you might be able to live without a dishwasher for a few months while your kitchen is being renovated, but high-tech appliances like hot water taps may be essential to your vision once the project is complete. Similarly, you might be able to put up with a little bit of dust during the renovating process, but you'll want to make sure that your contractor takes precautions to prevent any asbestos from being disturbed. By taking the time to figure out what you can and can't live without, you can make sure that your home renovation goes as smoothly as possible.

Conclusion

Home renovation can be a great way to add value to your home, but it is important to carefully consider all aspects of the project before getting started. By taking the time to plan and being realistic about your budget, you can ensure that your home renovation will be a success. And by being mindful of the potential costs, you can save money and still end up with the space of your dreams.


To find out more about kitchen design, dive into our treasure trove of blog posts.