Moyra Gahan's Top Home Renovation Tips
Sponsored by White Design Concept.
You have found the perfect apartment to renovate but don't know where to start, right? Well, you're not alone. Many locals and expats alike dive into planning a home renovation with no clue of what to expect. It's only after they suffer through various mishaps that they regret not having had professional advice. Without preparation, the home renovation process can be full of surprises because there can be unforeseen expenses and issues that make the process complex. So, before you go down the twists and turns of the renovation path, here are some points to keep in mind.
Interview Multiple Contractors
Ask friends or colleagues for recommendations if you can. It pays to interview multiple contractors and compare bids. You risk paying too much and not getting what you want without interviewing numerous contractors. It pays to do your homework and talk to several experts before making a final decision.
Have the Correct Paperwork before Starting Any Work
There are two types of building licenses: obra mayor and obra menor. The first type requires previous consent from the local authorities and an extensive project to be prepared by a qualified architect. The latter would not; it just requires an application presented at the town hall would suffice.
I always display the correct paperwork in the general areas of the building and on the apartment front door that I'm renovating. I also chat with neighbors before I start and let them know I will be doing some work, but I will keep the noise to a minimum and the general areas clean. I find this helpful and avoids future misunderstandings.
Be Realistic about Your Timeline
Your renovation will always take longer than expected, so be prepared when planning and make accommodations to avoid frustration. For example, you might think replacing an outdated bathroom will be quick but ordering new products that you love can take several weeks. Be realistic about the renovation process and timeline. It's essential to plan to avoid delays.
Expect the Unexpected
All apartments needing renovation hold secrets—especially ones needing a complete restoration—in the walls, under the floors and elsewhere. A renovation can bring those to light.
For example, if your contractor tells you your floors are uneven, the original tiles may need to be taken up, and the floor relayed, or the woodwork for the doors or shutters may need to be replaced if it's in lousy repair. These are just some possibilities of the unexpected and why you should be both planning for extra time during your renovation and extra money into your renovation budget (I budget a min of 10%) to allow for unanticipated mishaps along the way.
Be Specific about Design Ideas
Be clear on your design preferences. Get inspiration from browsing home decor stores and interior decorating websites, Instagram or Pinterest. Deciding on a design direction will help you avoid being talked into the contractor's ideas, which might differ from your vision for the renovation.
Educate Yourself on the Costs of Products
I always go through my contractor's quote in detail and discount products that I can purchase cheaper myself.
Never Pay For Everything Upfront
Always keep a minimum of 20% back until all works are completed. I recommend visiting the renovation daily. I always do this, so I'm aware of potential issues and can deal with them immediately, saving time and money.
Also, be aware that if you have recently moved here, every country does things differently. Having an experienced professional help you navigate the whole process will, without a doubt, save you a lot of stress and money. Please don't hesitate to contact me if you need help or advice with your renovation project.
You can learn more about how White Design Concept can help you on the website at whitedesignconcept.com and you can follow on social media for the latest updates on Instagram @whitedesignconcept.
Sponsored by White Design Concept.
