Planning a remodel is exciting—you’re reimagining your space and investing in your home. But before the dust starts flying, there are a few common missteps that can derail even the best intentions. Whether you’re upgrading a kitchen, finishing a basement, or adding square footage, avoiding these mistakes will save you time, stress, and money.
Here are the top three things we see homeowners get wrong—and what to do instead.
- Not Having a Clear Budget (and Buffer)
One of the biggest mistakes homeowners make is starting a remodel without a solid budget. Even if you have a general idea of what you want to spend, not accounting for details—or surprises—can lead to financial stress.
What to do instead:
Sit down with your contractor and walk through every line item: materials, labor, permits, fixtures, finishes, etc.
Add a 10–20% buffer for unexpected costs. Structural issues, hidden water damage, or delayed materials can all add up.
Prioritize your “must-haves” vs. “nice-to-haves” so you’re ready to make decisions if costs shift.
💡 Pro Tip: A clear budget leads to better design and smarter choices upfront.
- Skipping the Planning Phase
It’s tempting to dive right in, but lack of planning almost always leads to delays and compromises. Rushing through design decisions or trying to “figure it out later” can result in poor layout, mismatched materials, or expensive change orders mid-project.
What to do instead:
Spend time on the design. Make sure the flow, function, and finishes suit your lifestyle, not just your Pinterest board.
Review timelines, delivery windows, and permits with your contractor so there are no surprises.
Think ahead to how you’ll use the space in 5 or 10 years. Will it still meet your needs?
Don’t underestimate how many decisions go into a remodel—from outlets to grout color.
- Choosing the Lowest Bid Without Doing Homework
Everyone wants to save money, but hiring the cheapest contractor without checking references, licenses, and experience can backfire. You might end up with subpar work, delays, or even unfinished jobs.
What to do instead:
Ask for referrals and read reviews.
Make sure the contractor is licensed, insured, and experienced with the remodel you’re planning.
Review their past work—photos, client testimonials, and finished projects tell a story.
👷 Your contractor should be a partner, not just a price tag.
Remodeling your home is a big investment, but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By setting a realistic budget, planning carefully, and choosing the right contractor, you’ll set yourself up for success (and a beautiful new space).
At RTS Construction, we’ve been guiding homeowners through successful remodels for 25 years. If you’re ready to talk about your next project, we’d love to hear your ideas and help you avoid these all-too-common pitfalls.
📞 Call us at 518-813-8411
💻 Schedule a Consultation