You’ve just got the keys to your new home—exciting, right?
Whether it’s an old house, a fixer-upper, or a dated semi, you probably have big ideas about renovating it.
But before gutting rooms or ripping out the kitchen, let’s breathe.
This guide will help you confidently renovate and avoid the classic pitfalls new homeowners face.
Step 1: Live in the House Before You Renovate
It sounds counterintuitive, but the best advice from seasoned renovators?
Live in a house for a few months before starting major renovation work.
Why?
You learn what works and what doesn’t.
That room you thought you’d knock through might get perfect light at noon.
That small bathroom might feel cosy, not cramped.
Give yourself space to think and settle.
Step 2: Assess the House Renovation Costs
Before lifting a paintbrush, be realistic about your house renovation costs.
Things to factor in:
- Labour costs
- Materials
- Professional fees (architect, surveyor)
- House renovation permits
Always leave a healthy budget for surprises (at least 10–15%).
Got a quote? Add 20%.
That’s the real number.
Step 3: Know What Needs Doing First
When renovating a house, always start with the structure and systems.
Priority jobs:
- New roof (if needed)
- Damp proofing
- Structural cracks or subsidence
- Electrics and rewiring
- Heating and plumbing upgrades (plumbing and boiler)
Fix these before spending money on carpets or wallpaper.
The rest of the house can wait.
Step 4: Work Room by Room
Resist the urge to rip through the entire house in one go.
Focus on high-use spaces like the kitchen and bathroom.
Tackle smaller rooms (like a bedroom) while living in the home.
Finish one project before starting the next. It saves stress and dust.
Step 5: Plan a Realistic Budget (and Stick to It)
Creating your dream home takes planning.
Make a spreadsheet for:
- Labour
- Materials
- Unexpected costs
Factor in skips, permits, floor finishes, and fittings like taps, tile, and countertops.
Keep costs under control by shopping smart and comparing quotes.
DIY what you can, but be honest about your skills.
Step 6: Don’t Forget the Little Things
We often focus on paint and fittings, but what about:
- Sockets and switches
- Ceiling lights
- Door frames and skirting
- Wallpaper or plaster condition
It’s the details that make a renovation feel finished.
Step 7: Know When to Hire an Architect
Not every project needs an architect.
But if you’re:
- Changing layouts
- Doing a loft conversion
- Building an extension
…then getting professional plans makes sense.
An architect can also help with planning permission and building regulations.
Step 8: Prioritise the Kitchen and Bathroom
These are the rooms that sell homes—and make life easier.
We recommend:
- Installing a new kitchen that fits your needs
- Replacing or updating the bathroom for comfort
Check the plumbing, ventilation, and layout before picking tiles.
These rooms are tough to live without, so plan around them.
Step 9: Think Long-Term Functionality
If this is your forever home, design for now and later:
- Add a home office or loft space
- Plan for a growing family
- Include storage and utility space
Significant renovation isn’t just pretty—it’s practical.
Step 10: Decorate Last, Not First
Once the reno dust settles, it’s time to decorate.
Finish plastering, sanding, and painting. Choose your finishes:
- Paint or wallpaper
- Tile or carpet
- Light fixtures
If you do this too early, expect to redo it later.
Step 11: Mistakes to Avoid (Wish We Knew These!)
Here’s what people wish they knew about renovating:
- Don’t follow Pinterest too closely
- Always inspect the previous owner’s work
- Don’t skip the survey
- Don’t blow the budget on just the kitchen
- Avoid over-renovating for the neighbourhood
Your renovation project should be about value and joy.
From Fixer Upper to Finished Home
Renovating a home you’ve just bought is exciting—but overwhelming.
You can avoid turning your dream into a money pit with careful planning and smart budgeting.
Take your time. Learn from others. Ask for help when needed.
And remember: it doesn’t all have to be done this year.
It’s a journey worth taking.
