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Renovation projects can be  fun. They allow people to be creative, work with their hands or realize an idea. They can also increase the value of a home, improve its functionality and solve problems that homeowners have lived with for years. However, renovations have difficulties and  can experience delays.

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Even if a homeowner decides to hire a professional to handle the job, he or she must be available to that professional to make sure the project runs smoothly. Not being able to meet with the contractor at a reasonable time to do estimates and negotiations, not answering questions in the middle of the day, or  being inflexible with weekend schedules can throw off the schedule.

 
Even in the face of material shortages, I would ask my customers to select at least one backup material or style for certain materials for their repairs. When it comes to specialty materials like countertops, flooring, cabinets, tile, and other finishes, homeowners can spend a few extra minutes choosing their first, second, and third favorite choices. With backups in mind, DIYers and homeowners can decide if it's worth waiting with the material  or if it's better to switch to another favorite option to keep the timeline.
 
Do-it-yourselfers embarking on their first major renovation may be surprised to learn how long the permit and inspection process takes. In some cities, the permitting process is straightforward, with all that is required are hand-drawn plans and a detailed scope of work. In other places (and depending on the project), the permit may require designed plans with approved stamps. These plans can take time to execute, so it's best to make your plans  ahead of time.

Also throughout the project, the construction department wants to monitor the project at certain stages. For example, an inspector wants to see the frame to make sure the structure is built to code. Electrical and plumbing checks are also done after installation and then again after installation. Because inspectors don't just drop everything when a DIYer calls, they have to make an appointment and it can take several days for an inspector to show up.
 
 
Here's a challenge that's usually only a problem for homeowners who hire a shady general contractor, but it can be a major cause of delay. If the homeowner pays the general contractor, the GC must pay the subcontractors they hire for the project. These can include plumbers, electricians, plasterers, painters, flooring specialists and many others. If professionals are not paid, they have the right to put care in the home, which stops most of the work.
 
When it comes to entire home renovations, large additions, or similar projects, real estate taxes can affect financing, the home's ability to pay, and more.
 
 
 

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