Remodeling Mistakes 101

After 20+ years in the remodeling business, I’ve learned one thing:

The most expensive mistakes usually happen before the first hammer swings.

This post isn’t meant to criticize—it’s here to help homeowners avoid costly missteps and unnecessary stress during a remodel. If you’re planning a renovation, take a few minutes to learn from others’ mistakes before making your own.

Skipping the Planning Phase

We get it—demo day is exciting! But rushing into the job without a clear plan is one of the biggest and most common mistakes homeowners make.

No clear plan = delays and extra costs. Take time to work through your layout, materials, and timeline before tearing anything out.
Mid-project changes cost you time and money. Communication is key here—listen to your partner, your contractor, and yourself. Align your vision before work begins.
Finalize layout and finishes early. Knowing your design, product selections, and having realistic allowances in place will help your contractor keep things on track.

Underestimating the Budget

Budgeting should be broken into three distinct phases:

Phase 1:

Complete a rough layout
Walk-through with all subcontractors
Develop a rough budget

Phase 2:

Review the rough budget
Adjust the scope of work and financial plan accordingly

Phase 3:

Finalize detailed plans and finalize the budget

The goal: Eliminate as many “behind-the-wall” surprises as possible before construction starts.

Other budgeting mistakes to avoid:

Skipping over hidden costs: Permits, mold remediation, outdated wiring, and structural issues can pop up if you’re unprepared.
Going cheap on labor or materials: Don’t back yourself into a corner by asking, “What if we do the demo ourselves?” or “What if my brother-in-law handles the electrical?”
Remember:

“If you think hiring a pro is expensive, wait until you hire an amateur.”

Not Vetting the Contractor Properly

This one’s huge—and unfortunately common.

Don’t choose based on price alone. The old method of collecting three bids and picking the one in the middle? It doesn’t always work. A free bid isn’t worth the paper it’s printed on if it comes without accountability.
Red flags: No license, no insurance, no references = walk away.

Hire someone who has the experience, team, and systems in place to manage the job from start to finish.

Micromanaging the Crew

Hovering slows down progress and creates tension.
Hire the right contractor—someone who brings in skilled tradespeople and knows how to manage a jobsite effectively.
Be involved, but trust the process.

Remodeling is a team sport. Your best role is to stay informed and engaged—without disrupting the flow of work.

DIYing the Wrong Things

This isn’t the time to test your DIY skills.

Leave all remodel work to the pros. Your contractor will hire licensed and experienced subcontractors for each phase.
Save DIY projects (like wall décor or furniture painting) for after the remodel is complete.

Ignoring Resale Value

Yes, it’s your home—but keep potential buyers in mind too.

Avoid over-personalization. A bright purple kitchen or a sunken living room might not appeal to the next owner.
Don’t skip important upgrades. Things like new insulation, energy-efficient windows, or upgraded HVAC may not be glamorous, but they increase value and comfort.

Think balance—make it yours, but smart.

Failing to Prepare for the Inconvenience

Remodeling is disruptive—period.

Expect dust, noise, temporary power or water outages, and even displacement during major phases.
Protect furniture and seal off adjacent rooms as much as possible.
And finally, embrace the chaos. You’re building something great—just be ready for the mess along the way.

Remodeling is exciting—but it’s also full of potential landmines. With the right mindset and planning, your dream space doesn’t have to turn into a nightmare.

If you’re ready to remodel and want to do it the right way, give Excel Builders a call at (612) 281-4681.
We’d love to help guide your next project—from vision to final walk-through.