5 Common Renovation Mistakes (And How to Avoid Them)
Renovations can be exciting — you're reworking how you move through your space and finally making it feel like you.
But let’s be honest, it’s never as simple as it looks on HGTV. When you're doing the work yourself or even just trying to manage it all, there’s a lot to think about. And without a plan (or the right support), it's really easy to make mistakes — and unfortunately, they can be expensive ones.
These are five of the most common renovation mistakes I see homeowners make — and the exact things I try to help clients avoid. Whether you're just starting to dream or you're knee-deep in demo, this list is for you.
Mistake 1: Skipping the Planning Stage
It happens all the time — you get fed up with your home and decide to take matters into your own hands. You grab a hammer and start knocking down walls.
But diving in without a plan is never a good idea.
Planning is what keeps a renovation on track. You need to figure out what is and isn’t working in your space and make a wish list of what you want to change. That includes creating a realistic budget and knowing whether you’re doing a facelift or a full gut.
Floor plans, lighting layouts, furniture placement — these are all part of a solid plan. They give you a clear vision and make communication with contractors, trades, or designers way easier.
And no, you don’t have to do all of this on your own. Interior designers help with this exact process — see my post on why hiring an interior designer is worth it if you're not sure.
Mistake 2: Not Setting a Realistic Budget
Renovations almost always cost more than you expect — and setting a reasonable budget is trickier than it sounds.
A good place to start is by working backward:
Decide what you want to renovate, then create a budget that fits your goals. That will help you see what’s actually possible.
Make sure to include a 15–20% contingency fund for surprises. Maybe you uncover mold, outdated wiring, or subfloor damage — these aren’t fun to deal with, but they happen.
And hey, if you don’t end up needing the contingency? That’s money you can put toward upgraded finishes, furniture, or right back into savings.
Mistake 3: Hiring Too Late (or Hiring the Wrong People)
I get it — once you decide to renovate, you want to get going right away. But skipping the time it takes to find the right team can really backfire.
Not all contractors are the same. Some specialize in bathrooms, others love additions, and some avoid basements altogether. You want someone whose values align with yours and who has experience with your type of project.
Waiting too long to hire, or starting the work yourself, often leads to mistakes — and that can create more work for the pros when you finally bring them in. Take the time to do your research upfront. It’ll save you time and stress later.
Mistake 4: Underestimating the Disruption
Living through a renovation is harder than people think. There’s dust, noise, mess, and strangers constantly coming and going.
Your house won't feel like your home for a while.
Figure out your plan before the chaos starts:
Are you going to set up a temporary kitchen in another room?
Can you live in a trailer on-site?
Do you have family to stay with?
Would it make more sense to rent a place?
One of my clients lived in their trailer during a reno that was supposed to take 3.5 months — it ended up being five. Let’s just say, they weren’t interested in “camping” for a long time after that.
Whatever you choose, make sure it works with your budget and your sanity. Sometimes a hot shower and a comfy bed are worth every penny.
Mistake 5: Prioritizing Style Over Function
Pinterest is full of beautiful spaces — and I love it too. But just because a kitchen or bathroom looks dreamy doesn’t mean it’ll work for you.
Those photos are staged, styled, and designed for someone else’s lifestyle.
Function comes first.
Before choosing finishes or layouts, think about how you actually live. Make a wish list: Do you need more storage? Better flow? A place for the dog bowls or the kids' backpacks? Start there.
Style is important, but a pretty space that doesn’t work for your daily life will just lead to frustration.
Final Thoughts
Doing the proper planning before you begin your renovation can save you time, money, and a ton of frustration.
You don’t have to go it alone. Interior designers and contractors are here to help make your renovation as smooth as possible. Don’t make it harder than it has to be — avoid these common mistakes and give yourself the tools to do it right.