Top Mistakes Homeowners Make During Renovations (And How to Avoid Them)
- Austin Jones
- Oct 1
- 3 min read
Top Mistakes Homeowners Make During Renovations (And How to Avoid Them)
Renovating your home can be exciting, but it’s also easy to make mistakes that can cost you time, money, and stress. Whether you’re updating a kitchen, remodeling a bathroom, or adding a major addition, being aware of common pitfalls can help ensure your project is a success.
At La Pera’s General Contracting, we’ve seen it all and we know how to guide homeowners through smooth, efficient renovations on the Emerald Coast.
1. Skipping Proper Planning
One of the biggest mistakes homeowners make is diving into a renovation without a clear plan. Failing to outline your goals, budget, and timeline can lead to delays, unexpected costs, and frustration.
How to Avoid It:
Create a detailed renovation plan, including design, materials, and scope of work.
Consult with a licensed contractor before buying materials or making major decisions.
Budget for unexpected challenges.
2. Underestimating Costs
Renovations often cost more than homeowners anticipate. Many forget to include labor, permits, and hidden expenses like structural repairs or electrical upgrades.
How to Avoid It:
Get a detailed estimate from a licensed and insured contractor.
Include a buffer of at least 10–15% of your budget for unexpected costs.
Prioritize must haves vs. nice to haves to avoid overspending.
3. Ignoring Permits and Codes
Skipping building permits or failing to adhere to local building codes is a costly mistake that can result in fines, safety issues, or problems when selling your home.
How to Avoid It:
Work with a contractor who knows the local building regulations.
Always obtain the necessary permits before starting work.
Ensure inspections are done at each stage of construction.
4. Choosing the Wrong Contractor
Hiring a contractor solely based on price, or worse, hiring someone unlicensed, can lead to shoddy work, delays, and safety hazards.
How to Avoid It:
Verify the contractor’s licenses, insurance, and references.
Look for reviews and completed projects in your area.
Choose a contractor with experience in the type of renovation you’re doing.
5. Overlooking Quality Materials
Cutting corners on materials can save money upfront but often leads to replacements sooner than expected.
How to Avoid It:
Invest in materials that are durable and appropriate for your climate.
Consult your contractor on cost-effective, long-lasting options.
Don’t sacrifice quality for a small initial savings—it’s rarely worth it.
6. Poor Communication
Miscommunication between homeowners and contractors is a major source of renovation stress. Failing to express your expectations clearly can result in mistakes and disappointment.
How to Avoid It:
Establish clear communication channels with your contractor.
Schedule regular check-ins and updates on progress.
Document changes and decisions in writing to avoid confusion.
7. Ignoring Function for Style
While it’s tempting to focus on aesthetics, functionality is key. Poorly planned layouts, insufficient storage, or impractical designs can make your renovation frustrating in daily life.
How to Avoid It:
Balance style with practicality in design choices.
Work with a contractor to optimize layouts and workflows.
Think long-term about how your space will be used.
Avoid Renovation Mistakes With Us
When renovating your home in Panama City or Bay County, it’s important to understand the difference between cosmetic and structural projects. Cosmetic work like painting, flooring, or updating cabinets usually doesn’t require a permit. While structural changes, such as removing load-bearing walls, altering windows or doors, or modifying plumbing, electrical, or roofing systems, almost always do.
Even for projects that don’t require permits, all work must comply with the Florida Building Code. Because navigating permits, building codes, and construction standards can be complex, it’s always best to work with a licensed and insured general contractor like La Pera’s General Contracting. Ensuring your renovation is safe, legal, and professionally executed.
Renovations can transform your home, but only if done carefully. Avoiding these common mistakes saves you time, money, and stress. At La Pera’s General Contracting, we specialize in residential, commercial, and government renovations along the Emerald Coast. Helping homeowners plan, budget, and execute their projects with confidence.
📞 Contact us today to start your next renovation the right way!
🌟 See why homeowners trust us:
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