Renovation hurdles

Here are the biggest challenges facing remodel-minded homeowners

Every home upgrade project comes with its unique trials and tribulations — mainly if it’s a kitchen, bathroom or laundry room redo. But ask a large sample size of homeowners to rank their top challenges when it comes to reinventing any of these three spaces, and a clearer picture of common complications experienced emerges.

Online specialty kitchen and bath retailer Hausera recently polled 1,000 homeowners and learned that the biggest hurdles they had to clear concerning a kitchen, bath or laundry room renovation are keeping within budget (chosen by 41.24 percent); locating the right professionals (chosen by 38.62 percent overall and 48 percent of millennials, who voted this their top concern); paying for the project (33.02 percent); staying on schedule (31.94 percent); choosing design and style (20.98 percent); coping with the unexpected (20.14 percent); handling the mess during remodeling (17.52 percent), and managing renovation stress (16.33 percent). The study also found that 84 percent of respondents have remodeled a kitchen, bathroom, or laundry room in the last two years, spending an average of $12,800, $11,100 and $10,800, respectively.

To David Crompton, head of construction for Pro.com based in Seattle, the message here is clear.

“Remodeling is complicated.

Even the smoothest projects will experience some kind of challenge,” he said. “Maybe during demolition, you uncover rotten studs that now need to be replaced. Or the custom tile you had your heart set on is no longer in stock. Even the smaller problems require a lot of time and attention.”

But just because you can expect various problems to arise before and during a home improvement project doesn’t mean you should also count on being overwhelmed, hopelessly frustrated or downright disappointed during this process.

“The more research the homeowner does in advance of the project, the more they can feel in control. Knowledge is power. Asking a lot of questions and being realistic, especially about the budget and unforeseen events that can happen, can lead to better outcomes,” said Melissa Hill, interior designer and co-founder of Hartley and Hill Design, headquartered in Wallingford, Conn.

To find the right professional, for example, take time to vet each candidate carefully.

“When interviewing contractors, ask to speak to several customers they’ve worked with in the past year; this will give you a clear idea of what to expect from them,” said Robert Lacher, owner of Lacher Construction, Inc. in Augusta, Ga.

Additionally, gauge your first impression and trust your gut.

“Is this someone with whom you have chemistry, whom you

trust and who listens to you, answers your questions satisfactorily and asks you enough questions to get to know your wants and dislikes?” asks Hill.

To help stay within budget, Portland, Ore.-based interior designer Jenna Sheingold recommends planning for 10 to 20 percent overage.

“Because every house is different and will have its own surprises within the walls, it’s nearly impossible to stay on budget without some room for variance,” said Sheingold.

To ensure more accurate budgeting, insist on accurate quoting from professionals.

“Ask your contractor or remodeler how they arrived at those numbers,” Crompton said. “Make sure all the details are provided in the quote –— not just a lump sum amount without a lot to describe exactly what’s included.”

When it comes to funding the project, explore different options available.

“If you own a home with substantial equity built up, you may be able to refinance and pull cash out at closing to pay for remodeling,” said Wes Tool, retail branch manager for Planet Home Lending in Lakewood, Col. He adds that, if you qualify, you could alternatively pursue a home equity loan, home equity line of credit, personal loan, FHA 203(k) rehab loan or VA renovation loan.

Staying on schedule requires maintaining good communication with your contractor and requesting regular construction schedules.

“It also helps to have your design plans finalized before you start demolition and to be ready to make adjustments and act decisively when surprises arise,” Sheingold said.

And to locate and choose the right products, “ask your professional what they recommend. Many trade professionals have direct relationships with manufacturers and may be able to purchase these products at a discounted price,” said Crompton.

GETTY IMAGES The more research the homeowner does in advance of the project, the more they can feel in control, experts say.