Many homeowners make the same mistake: they create a budget… with no room for surprises.
But surprises always come. Hidden plumbing issues. Out-of-square walls. Electrical upgrades nobody saw coming. I once watched a couple burn through their contingency fund in the first week because they never actually created one. Every unexpected bill felt like a crisis.
A realistic renovation budget includes the project plus a cushion. Usually 10–20 percent is reasonable. That way, when something pops up, you don’t panic or start cutting corners.
Another common slip is choosing the cheapest contractor simply because they’re the cheapest. Low bids can sometimes hide shortcuts, missing details, or change-order traps later. Ask questions. Compare scopes, not just prices.
Conclusion: Renovation isn’t a guessing game. Build safety into your numbers and choose quality partners. Peace of mind is worth far more than shaving off a small amount upfront.
