If this is not the first time, you’re remodeling the home, you know that the entire process can drive you to the brink of sanity. Renovation stress takes many forms. You may argue with your partner over the perfect bathtub, cross the budget, or disagree with the architect. No matter what the cause of the stress is, the result is the same; it drives you crazy.
Often, renovation stress isn’t the result of a single issue, but of many challenges, you experience during the process. Most of the time, problems arise between the contractor and the homeowner. But some other sources trigger nervousness, and to avoid and prevent them, you need to identify them.
Renovation stress sources
Where do I begin?
It doesn’t really matter if you land into a landscape project or kitchen remodel, stress bursts from not knowing where to begin and who to call. Some aspects paralyze you. Do you need permits? Should you hire a contractor? What contractor do you need? Does my house withstand the new structure?
Yes, it’s overwhelming, especially if you’re never done it before.
How much does it cost me?
It’s frustrating to have no idea how much the project will cost you. A professional contractor adheres to your budget and is transparent on how much materials and labor cost. Even when you’re undertaking a DIY project, the budget can ruin the experience and boost stress levels.
How long does the project take?
The duration of the project is as important as the budget because it impacts your wellbeing. How many weeks do you have to leave the house?
Providing a general timeline of the project can help you, but usually, delays occur, so being patient is the best you can do. It’s a smart idea to work with a professional who has an open schedule if you hate delays because they won’t juggle multiple jobs at once.
Is it the right choice?
You keep changing your mind during the project because you don’t like the materials, appliances, or design. Making too many changes impacts lead time, expenses, and outcome. Why would you start a renovation project when you don’t have a clear picture regarding the result?
Does your partner agree with the changes you want to bring to your house? Your contractor isn’t your marital counselor, so they won’t help you if you fight with your spouse over the model of tiles and bathtub style.
Is my house hiding issues?
You don’t always know what lies under the living room carpet, so you may have no idea what issues your house has. All homes built within the last decade can hide problems you don’t know about and make planning challenging. Your contractor can estimate the extent of work the house requires, but they cannot say for sure until they inspect it.
Unforeseen problems can spark nervousness and anxiety because they affect the budget and timelines.
Why is it so hard to communicate?
Miscommunication between you and your partner, between you and the professionals, and between you and the delivery services can cause high stress. You don’t know what questions to ask upfront, so you lack information. Your constructor fails to communicate important details, or you neglect to ask them essential questions, and everything heads to a single result, disaster.
Being present on site as often as possible can help you relieve stress.
How to make the most of the renovation process
My maximum budget is
Have a conversation with your partner and determine how much you can spend. When you first meet the constructor, be clear on the budget.
Tell them the maximum sum you afford to pay for this project and ask them if they can work with it. The budget is one of the most common stress sources during a home remodel, so establishing it ahead impacts the entire experience.
I offer feedback
Constructors and architects receive training on how to take criticism since their study days so that they won’t take your feedback personally. Each job is a fresh canvas for them, and they don’t try to impose a style on their clients. Offer them feedback at each step in the process to avoid frustration.
I can compromise on that
Your vision will meet resistance. Your architect will tell you they cannot bring some of your ideas to life, the laws of physics will stop you from applying some, and even your partner won’t share part of your visions. Don’t be the couple who yells at each other when they have to decide. Be open to compromises and listen to what your spouse and constructor have to say about your ideas.
I need to chill down
Let the experts do their job and spend some time away from the house. Have a spa treatment, take your partner for lunch outside the house or spend a weekend away from the town. If you cannot control your stress levels, try some CBD products because they relieve stress and fight anxiety. It’s normal to feel tense during a home remodel, but don’t let your stress control you. Using OrganicCBDNugs Hemp Flower is helpful in stressful situations, so you should give it a try if nervous tension takes over.
Instead of spending your time fighting with your partner over the color of the kitchen countertop, compromise on something you both like.
It’s more important to maintain a good relationship with your loved ones that sticking to an idea you have in your mind. The last thing you want is marriage issues.
I need a detailed contract
Ask your contractor for a complete contract before the project begins. It gives you an idea of what will take place and the expected timeline. It should also include the materials, utensils, and techniques they use to complete the tasks. Having access to details upfront allows you to organize the process and prevent stressful situations.
Without a contract, the project can quickly get stalled. Write down the sum, start date, completion date, and the right address.
The above tips won’t get you completely out of the woods, but they’ll help you manage anxiety and stress.
