Renovating your house in Malaysia is a significant undertaking that demands meticulous attention to every aspect. However, if you correctly set yourself up with a clear goal in mind, you can avoid some of the hassles.

Whether you're doing a simple DIY bathroom makeover or allowing a slew of home renovation contractors into your house, be sure to avoid the following blunders.

Here are the mistakes to avoid before renovating your home in Malaysia.

1. Getting started on improvements too soon

If at all feasible, stay in your home for some time before making any renovation plans. Get a feeling of its flow, where the groceries should be, where the laundry should be, how the sun strikes the place, where the choke spots are, and in which direction the rain slants.

All of this will influence your decision-making when it comes to making changes.

2. Cost underestimation

Most things will cost more and take longer than you anticipated, so when creating a budget, always add 20% to what you estimate a project would cost. If you don't have the cash, reduce the scope of the project. If you manage to beat these forecasts, your surprises will be a pleasant one.

3. Assuming that everything will happen as planned

Working on old structures might lead to a slew of unexpected outcomes. Who knows what's on the other side of the wall you're tearing down? 

A new building is more regulated, but that doesn't automatically imply that everything will go well. Always be on the lookout for the unexpected. It's a common human flaw. We all hope and pray that everything happens as planned.

4. Not bringing in a designer from the beginning

You're going to spend more money than you ever imagined. It may just as easily be for something well-designed. Interior designers and architects usually charge by the hour or take a portion of the full task (say, 10%), which is a small amount in comparison to your entire payout.

5. Choosing the lowest bidder

Professional assistance is well worth the investment. That includes both designers and home renovation contractors in Malaysia. Be prepared to pay a fair price for a competent contractor, and be sceptical of those that are unreasonably inexpensive and ready to work immediately.

6. Employing a professional who isn't a suitable match

Just because someone is a skilled designer doesn't always indicate he will be a good match for you. Do you have the same taste in design? What are your priorities?

Find someone else if he doesn't ask you a lot of questions about your wants, desires, and lifestyle. Curiosity and the ability to listen are essential.

7. Not requesting references

Anyone you wish to recruit should be able to refer you to their past three customers. These individuals will have seen the contractor at his present level of accomplishment and staffing.

For instance, after finding your trusted local professionals for all your home service at Renoplus, you could enquire about an architect's recommendations from a home contractor in Malaysia and vice versa. 

8. Delaying hiring a general contractor

You should ask a renovation contractor to look at blueprints at the conceptual stage rather than finished blueprints. This way, you can see whether your project fits within your price range before falling in love with a design and paying for a complete set of biddable drawings.

It's also a fantastic method to meet prospective contractors, get their feedback, and make sure they're not wasting their time.

9. Not asking enough questions

Enquire as much as possible. There is no such thing as a stupid question. Besides, it is your money that you are spending. You should know why and what you are spending on.

10. Making excessive modifications along the road

Even minor changes may need a lot of effort on the back end, so check with your designer or builder before making any changes. For example, moving a light switch could cost more than you expected.

12. Forgetting about interiors

Interiors are often an afterthought. Newcomers often believe they can handle their finishing work or move their old furniture into a new room. However, if you want to enjoy your space and boost its value, make sure you set aside money for interior design and décor.

12. Overspending where you should be saving

Don't become stuck in the mindset that the most significant items should be the most expensive. A mid-range couch may be dressed up with some lovely throw cushions. Alternatively, pair a low-cost dining table with a bold light fixture.

Reglazing tile will be significantly less expensive than a complete renovation. Sisal carpets are also cost-effective and always stylish!

In a Nutshell

Anyone on a budget or looking for the best deal (which includes all of us) should start with the living spaces. Doing a little bit of everything in a few different areas will make you feel uneasy and frustrated.

The area where you would spend most of your time should be the centre of your attention and effort. Move on to the next slot when the budget allows.