Home remodeling or designing a new home is exciting, and there are so many choices! Homeowners sometimes tend to be overwhelmed by the sheer number of options out there, and many overspend on areas where they could save a bundle without compromising on lifestyle. Here are a few areas where you could be watching your spending. 

1. Commercial Grade Appliances

While we are all for custom kitchens with high end finishes, one of the areas where homeowners tend to overspend on their renovation or design is by choosing commercial grade appliances, even when they rarely cook!

Unless you are spending a lot of time in the kitchen, and your appliances are being pushed as hard as they would in a commercial kitchen, this is an unnecessary expense. Good, high quality home appliances are more than enough in nearly every situation, and even in a gourmet kitchen. 

2. Tub Replacement

If you are doing a bathroom renovation, it is not always necessary to replace the tub completely – unless it is badly damaged. Homeowners can save a lot of money by having their existing tub re-glazed instead. The tub will look as good as new, and you’ll have more money left to spend on other upgrades. 

3. Swimming Pools

Unless you live in southern California, you’re not likely to be using your pool for a huge chunk of the year. Spending a small fortune having a pool constructed is therefore not a wise choice in most cases. If you are going to spend on a pool, think modest rather than lavish, or choose a hot tub that you will get more use out of instead. 

4. Carpet

If you are still considering carpets, don’t. Wall to wall carpets are one of the biggest turnoffs for home buyers – the same people who might one day be viewing your home if you choose to sell. Not only that, but they contribute to allergies, and they’re one of the first things to wear out. Opt for laminate or hardwood that is hard wearing and easy to clean, and choose rugs instead. The added bonus? Rugs are cheap and easy to switch out when you feel like a new look. 

5. Specific Use Rooms

Sure, it’s great to have your own home theater/library/wine cellar, but those things are all very specific, and are not likely to improve the value of your home in the long term. If you must have one of these very specific room types, make sure that your design allows for easy repurposing if you choose to sell one day, and stick to a strict budget. 

When deciding whether to spend or splurge on anything in your new home or renovation or home decorating, there are two primary questions you need to ask yourself: is it adding long term value, and is it something that will still be in use in twenty years? Things like plumbing and electrical, structural elements, flooring and tiling are all areas where you should spend more. Cosmetic items like paint and trendy finishes, and items that won’t add to resale value are not.