Five ways to reduce the stress of renovating

“Expect the unexpected” is a great piece of advice if you’re staring down the barrel of a big renovation project.

We’ve all watched enough renovation shows on television to know that things don’t always go to plan. From late deliveries to inclement weather, it’s so easy to get caught up in the stress of it all. But renovating should be exciting and, dare we say, fun! When it all becomes too much, here are a few things to fall back on to help you get through it.

Remember your plan

We’re always banging on about the importance of planning but it is the best way to ensure your reno runs smoothly. The more detail, the better. Whether it’s scribbled in a journal or tracked in a renovation planning app, when stress starts to build, go back to your plan to get things back on track.

Sort out your finances

There’s no avoiding it, renovations are an expensive exercise. The last thing you want is to start a project you can’t afford. Take the time to develop a detailed budget as part of the planning process.

Once you have a total figure in mind, you need to decide how you’re going to finance your project. Are you going to try and extend your mortgage, look at other financing options or have you been saving like crazy to pay for it all upfront? Perhaps a tailored renovation loan is right for you. Whichever route you choose, it’s important to lock down your finances before you start ordering, signing or hiring.

Become an armchair expert

No one is expecting you to go out and get your white card, but the more you learn about the work you’re undertaking, the more confident you’ll feel managing your job site. Starting a bathroom reno? Spend some time reading up on waterproofing techniques and tiling options. Adding a deck to your backyard? Work out the pros and cons of timber versus composite decking. A little research goes a long way.

Work out your sleeping arrangements

Depending on the scale of your renovation, you might need to crash with friends or family, or book some accommodation. Building sites can be noisy and hazardous – not ideal for kids, pets or people who are even slightly accident-prone. Plus, you might need to switch off electricity or water for extended periods of time. So, when you’re planning your renovation, consider whether or not you’ll need to move out and how you’re going to pay for it.

If you do decide to stay on site, speak to your contractors and trades about removing any hazards to keep the site as safe as possible.

Know when to put the tools down

It’s so easy to get caught up in the chaos of a renovation, but it’s important to take a step back and remind yourself of the end goal. Take some time for yourself, vent to friends, book a night or two away if you can – whatever helps you destress. All the work, stress and, let’s face it, money going into your project will all pay off in the end.