One of the most expensive changes you can make in renovations is moving the big guys. I’m talking about sinks, bathtubs, stoves, walls, and windows. Sometimes removing a wall means needing to install expensive load-bearing beams, but other times opening up a wall might be easier than relocating a gas line and ventilation for a stove. Not only do you need to pay for the materials to support the move (plumbing, conduits, wiring, beams, new countertops, cabinets, etc. ), but you usually will need to hire a professional to do the work. Unless the functionality of your space is really suffering, it’s not always worth the cost involved with making these big-time changes to your home’s footprint.

Should I Move Out During My Renovation?

According to jean brownhill—founder and ceo of sweeten, a platform that matches renovators with general contractors—it's best to renovate your entire house at once. "while it can be tempting to apply à la carte prices to individual spaces, a renovation is an integrated process that involves design, demo, framing, installation, electrical, and plumbing," she says. "a bigger scope tackled at once allows you to plan more broadly. You can get more done, in the right sequence, and [it's] more cost-effective. "brownhill adds doing a renovation in one fell swoop is an easy way to get on a contractor's schedule; plus, you'll only have to move out of your house or order back-to-back takeout for a few months one time.

19 Ways to Cut Costs on Your House Remodel

We’ll guide you through renovation costs, from the big (knock down the house and start over) to something as small as choosing a wall sconce over a recessed light. But another universal truth about renovations is that every little thing adds up. So save a little here, save a little there, and pretty soon you’re talking about real money. See our home remodeling ideas below for our favorite ways to get the look you want for less.

Consider how the renovation will affect your daily routine. For families, remodeling can be disruptive, so finding ways to minimize the impact can help maintain harmony at home.

many homeowners consider obtaining a building permit as an unnecessary headache which can slow down the renovation process, but permits are a necessary part of the process in most cases, which can come back to haunt you if not obtained in the first place. Building permits are necessary to ensure your house remodel meets structural and fire safety requirements and code inspectors in most jurisdictions can make you rip out non-conforming work if not up to snuff. This can create a very expensive headache when looking to sell your home down the road. It's always advisable to think ahead and ensure the permit process is followed.

You are building a house, not ending world hunger. Time, money, and a little creativity can solve just about any problem. Builders and designers are people too, and if you treat them with respect, they will bend over backward to get you the house you want. After all, their best source of new business is referrals from happy clients like you! you might also enjoy my post on the worst bathroom remodeling tips you can possibly make. They totally apply to new construction as well.