Hidden Renovation Costs

Hidden Renovation Costs
After spending extra time in your home over the past few years you may be dreaming of the changes you would like to make. Our favorite home improvement shows and social media accounts can make it look so simple. But behind the scenes, renovations never seem to go as planned. There’s always a cost you didn’t anticipate, or a problem that didn’t reveal itself until the project was underway. Here are five common costs to look out for.
 

Higher Utility Bills

 
If contractors and builders are working in your home all day, there’s a good chance they’re constantly walking in and out the exterior doors. That may wreak havoc on your HVAC efficiency, so watch out for higher utility bills and prepare for a tuneup once the work is complete.
 

Movers

 
It’s pretty hard to renovate a fully furnished home. You may be able to move and store most of the furniture yourself, but often times you have bigger pieces that require some hired help. Some renovation companies offer to take care of this, but don’t be fooled, it typically comes at an additional cost. If you can’t or aren’t willing to give up your garage for a few weeks, you may want to consider renting a pod. If you do end up going the route of a pod, you will need to decide if you will keep the pod in your driveway or have it stored off-site.
 

Food

 
If your kitchen is being torn apart, preparing, cooking and cleaning up becomes a lot more difficult. You may be able to keep your food budget steady by switching to meals that don’t require counter space, the stove, or the oven, but don’t be surprised if you end up dining out more often.
 

Hotel

 
Depending on your renovation, there may be some nights where sleeping in your home isn’t practical, or you just need a mental break from the mess. Do you work from home? Your quiet workspace may not be very conducive with a construction crew in the background. Budget for a few nights at a hotel or schedule your family vacation for the worst part of the renovation.
 

Changing Your Mind

 
It is quite common for a home owner to change their mind in the middle of the project. Deciding on different tile, flooring, cabinet designs or bathroom fixture when the renovation is already underway, will cost you. Even if the materials have not yet been delivered, they were already ordered and paid for. Restocking fees can come into effect here. Moreover, there is a lot of work behind the scenes that you may not see, that can cost more money. 
 

Deep Cleaning

 
Cleaning up after a construction project is entirely different from your regular weekly cleaning. Sawdust and other debris can get in every nook and cranny. It may be worth your sanity to just hire cleaners.
 
 
At Arrive Real Estate Group, we have a network of top vendors in a variety of fields we partner with on projects big and small. Not sure where to start with your renovation? Ask us for referrals! We are always happy to help and provide insight on what will help you get the most return on your investment.

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