5 Common Mistakes That Homeowners Make When Embarking on a Building Project – And How to Avoid Them
Taking on a home renovation is exciting – the promise of more space, a layout that finally works for your family, and the chance to add value to your property. But all too often, homeowners jump in without the right advice and end up facing blown budgets, stressful delays, or designs that don’t quite deliver what they hoped for.
Contemporary Brighton home renovation with architect-designed studio and landscaped outdoor area by JDA Lammin, Melbourne residential architects.
Based on decades of experience working with Melbourne families, here are the five most common mistakes we see – and how you can avoid them.
1. Purchasing a property to renovate without researching current build costs first.
It’s easy to fall in love with a house that looks like the perfect “renovator’s delight.” But without a clear idea of real construction costs, you risk buying into a project that’s far more expensive than you expect. Material and labour prices have changed dramatically in recent years, and what seemed affordable five years ago may no longer be realistic today.
How to avoid it: Before signing on the dotted line, speak with an architect architect experienced in renovations who can give you realistic guidance on what’s achievable with your budget. A little expert insight up front can save you from a very costly mistake later.
2. Setting a budget based around fear of over-capitalising or comparable sale prices
Many homeowners fixate on the idea of “not overcapitalising” and set their budget based purely on comparable local real estate sales. While it’s sensible to be mindful of value, it shouldn’t be the only factor driving decisions. If this is your long-term home, your lifestyle and future needs are just as important as resale figures. And if you are going to be living in the home for the long term, money invested now should easily be recouped in 10-15 years.
How to avoid it: Work with a professional to balance financial considerations with what will actually improve your day-to-day life. An architect can help you design a home that feels great to live in while also protecting the long-term value of your investment.
3. Asking a builder for cost advice without a design in place
Builders are great at pricing a design – but asking them to give ballpark costs without drawings in hand often leads to disappointment. Without clarity on the design and scope, cost estimates are little more than guesswork (‘guestimates’ as we often call them).
How to avoid it: Get the design right first. An architectural feasibility study can help you test different options, align them with your budget, and then take those designs to builders for accurate pricing.
4. Trying to save money by ‘doing it yourself’
DIY might work for cosmetic updates, but when it comes to extensions or major renovations, the risks quickly outweigh the savings. Homeowners often underestimate the complexity of navigating planning permits, building regulations, or coordinating trades. A small oversight can derail an entire project - we’ve all watched Grand Designs!
How to avoid it: Invest in expert guidance. It not only saves time and stress but can also prevent costly mistakes that arise when things aren’t done properly the first time.
5. Not seeking advice from an expert early enough
One of the biggest mistakes we see is homeowners only reaching out for professional help after their project has already run into issues – whether that’s an unrealistic budget, an unworkable design, or council requirements they hadn’t considered.
How to avoid it: Bring a renovation architect in Melbourne into the process from the beginning. Early advice helps you set a clear strategy, avoid dead ends, and make confident decisions from day one.
Brighton studio and outdoor renovation designed by JDA Lammin renovation architects Melbourne – modern residential extension with outdoor living space.
Final Thoughts
Renovating your home is one of the biggest investments you’ll make – financially and emotionally. Avoiding these common pitfalls can mean the difference between a stressful, expensive process and a smooth journey that delivers the home you’ve been dreaming of.
If you’re considering a renovation, our Home Design Explorer Pack is the perfect first step. It helps you test ideas, understand real build costs, and plan with confidence before committing to major expenses.
👉 Ready to get started? Book your initial consultation with JDA Lammin Architects today and take the first step towards transforming your home.
