Renovating a home can be a thrilling endeavor, promising to breathe new life into one’s living space, amplify its value, and tailor it to one’s unique needs. But without meticulous planning and execution, this endeavor can morph into a costly and frustrating nightmare. As a homeowner, understanding renovation pitfalls is important to avoid unnecessary stress, delays, and financial setbacks. Here are some common home renovation mistakes to avoid for a smooth process. Ignoring permits and regulations Neglecting to obtain the necessary permits and ignoring local building codes can lead to fines, delays, and even having to undo completed work. One should check with the local authorities and ensure that one’s renovation adheres to the required regulations. Neglecting structural issues Before embarking on cosmetic renovations, one should address any underlying structural issues in their home. These may include foundation problems, roofing issues, or termite damage. Addressing these issues early on will prevent further damage and ensure safety. Failing to plan for contingencies Home renovations can quickly become more expensive than what was initially anticipated. In addition to the costs of materials and labor, one should factor in additional expenses like permits, inspections, shipping, and other unforeseen costs. One can set aside a contingency budget of around 10-15% of the project cost.