Welcome back to the Velvet Runway and this feature about How to minimise the stress of renovating your home.
Deciding to renovate gives you the chance to transform your property into the perfect home you envision. But along with that excitement often comes a hefty dose of stress, from budget surprises to dust and delays.
Renovations rarely run exactly to plan, yet by taking practical steps, you can keep the overwhelm at bay and better enjoy the process.
Below, we share some tips to help you make your renovation manageable.
How to minimise the stress of renovating your home.
Table of Contents
- Set realistic expectations
- Protect against risks
- Maintain a healthy routine
- Keep your space organised
- Be Flexible and Ready for Surprises
- Practice Self-Care and Take Breaks
- Final Thoughts
1. Set realistic expectations
Renovations often take longer and cost more than anticipated. Accepting that unexpected delays or additional costs might arise helps reduce disappointment and frustration when things don’t go perfectly to plan.
Start by getting multiple quotes, not just for the work itself but for any materials and finishes as well. Setting a budget with a 10-15% buffer gives you a financial cushion for unexpected expenses, which can make all the difference in keeping your anxiety under control when it pops up.
Pro Tip: Use a budget-tracking app or spreadsheet to monitor spending and identify potential savings in real-time. Staying organized financially will help you feel in control throughout the process.
2. Protect against risks
Renovating can bring significant risks, from structural surprises to project delays, that can quickly drive up stress. You can give yourself peace of mind by ensuring you have a home insurance policy in place, however you might need a more specialist policy to ensure you’re fully protected for larger renovations.
If you’re enlisting the services of tradespeople, check that they hold liability insurance and confirm their standards with references. And instead of making large payments upfront, discuss a staged payment plan that releases funds as work progresses.
Being prepared for risks means that if something goes wrong, you won’t be left scrambling.
3. Maintain a healthy routine
With the house in upheaval, it’s easy to let healthy habits slip. But to keep stress levels manageable, try to maintain a steady routine around your work schedule, meals and downtime.
Set aside time for regular exercise and balanced meals, even if you have to adjust slightly. Avoid the temptation to skip meals or sleep, as both can leave you feeling anxious.
A steady routine helps you stay physically and mentally stronger, helping you handle renovation-related pressures without feeling worn down.
4. Keep your space organised
Renovations bring a lot of disruption, but you can maintain a sense of order by keeping the workspace as tidy as possible. If you’re still living in the property, designate specific areas for tools, materials and personal items, so they don’t clutter up shared spaces.
At the end of each day, ask the builders to clear up or do it yourself if necessary. A clean, organised space feels less chaotic, helping you and your family stay relaxed.
5. Be Flexible and Ready for Surprises
Renovations are almost always subject to unexpected surprises, from hidden mold to materials being backordered. Stay flexible and remember that some things are beyond your control. Being adaptable can help you handle unexpected changes with a calm and steady approach.
Shift your mindset to view unexpected issues as opportunities to make informed, possibly beneficial changes. Treating surprises as chances to improve can turn frustration into a sense of accomplishment.
6. Practice Self-Care and Take Breaks
Renovating can be mentally and physically draining, so it’s essential to prioritize self-care. Take breaks to focus on hobbies, spend time outdoors, or unwind with friends or family. Even a short break can help reduce stress and refresh your outlook.
Schedule small moments to look forward to, like a weekend getaway or a spa day, to stay relaxed and motivated. Taking time for yourself will allow you to return to the project with renewed energy.
Final Thoughts on How to minimise the stress of renovating your home
Renovating is never completely worry-free, but by staying organised and proactive, you can make it far more manageable. With preparation and self-care, you’ll come out the other side with a refreshed home and your sanity still intact.
Remember, the renovation journey is temporary, but the satisfaction of a beautifully refreshed space is something you’ll enjoy for years to come.
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