Design Recipes: Renovation do’s and don’ts

Renovation do’s and don’ts

By Cathy Hobbs

A studio renovation project mid-construction.

It’s that time of the year when many homeowners are considering renovating. While sprucing up your home can be exciting, here are some suggestions for prudent ways to approach a renovation, regardless of size.

Do’s

• Do obtain multiple bids. Regardless of whether it’s love at first sight, having multiple bids may help provide peace of mind, knowing that you didn’t overpay for your renovation. • Do ask for previous samples of work or references.

This will help ensure that your hired professional has executed similar renovation projects. • Do have inspiration images and overall design direction. There is nothing worse than flying blind on a renovation project.

Don’t’s

• Don’t purchase your materials once your project has commenced. Instead try to have fixtures, appliances, etc., preordered to avoid delays in your project, which will likely increase cost. • Don’t submit change orders, or try to submit as few as possible. Many contractors charge fees relating to changing work orders. • Don’t micromanage. While it is prudent to be on top of your project, it may be counterproductive to be overly involved.

Cathy Hobbs, based in New York City, is an Emmy Award-winning television host and a nationally known interior design and home staging expert with offices in New York City, Boston and Washington, D.C. Visit her website at cathyhobbs.com.

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Photos courtesy Handout/TNS