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Research -

Talk to friends, family, and others you know who have undertaken renovations. They might help you with tips and recommendations.

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Set your budget -

And stick to it! Having a detailed budget is of utmost importance when executing a renovation project.

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Get quotes -

Get a few quotes from different contractors. See what each one has to offer before choosing.

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Have a plan -

Discuss this with your contractor. You should have a detailed plan of everything that is going to be done.

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Set the date -

If you want your reno to be ready by a certain date, mark it on your calendar and give it plenty of time to finish beforehand.

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Permits -

Get your permits and all legal documentation in order if you need any. This will save you time and potentially money penalties.

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Paint the wall -

Painting a room is not that hard. Plus, it will save you a lot of money!

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Refinish floors -

If you have hardwood floors, many times refinishing will be cheaper than replacing.

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Cabinets -

Instead of buying new cabinets, why not just paint the old ones?

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Open shelves -

This is a cheaper alternative to kitchen cabinets and can look great too! You can also do this in your bathroom.

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Bathroom repairs -

Sometimes you don't need to replace anything. Fixing a toilet, for instance, might turn out to be cheaper than buying a new one.

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Do your own tile backsplash -

This is simple job that most people can do, and it will save you money.

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Transport -

Pick up the materials yourself and transport them to your home.

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B-stock -

When shopping for new appliances, look for b-stock items with small dents or scratches. Stores usually make good discounts on these.

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DIY demolition -

Doing some of the demo yourself can save you money.

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Deck finishing -

This is a DIY project you can take on yourself. It's usually a pretty simple job.

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Leftovers -

Ask your contractor if they have any leftover materials from previous renovation projects you can use.

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Windows -

Why not add skylights if you can? These are usually cheaper than large windows, and let plenty of light in.

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Walls -

Is your wall worth fixing or will you be better off replacing it? This can affect the budget, so discuss it with your contractor beforehand.

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Look-alikes might do the trick -

When looking for specific colors or textures, consider all alternatives. Similar hardwood floors and laminate? See which one fits your budget.

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Debris -

Renting a trash bin can be expensive, so debris management is important. Think about how you can get rid of it more cost-efficiently.

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Plan your lighting -

Recessed lights, for instance, usually require more work and are therefore more expensive to install.

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Don't move the plumbing -

Don't move the plumbing when renovating a bathroom. Keeping the toilet and bath in the same place will save you money.

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DIY kitchen cabinets -

Carefully choose the right materials and install them yourself, if you can.

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Countertops -

You can save on kitchen countertops by choosing the right materials and installing them yourself.

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DIY kitchen island -

Build your own kitchen island using old furniture if you have some. It's a great way to reutilize materials.

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Used materials -

Some lightly-used secondhand materials can be a perfect way to save money. Think a box of tile for an area that you don't actually need sparkling new items.

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Temporary bathroom -

Try to get a temporary shower unit or even rent a portable restroom if you're renovating the bathroom. This will save you money in renting accommodation for a few days.

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Temporary kitchen -

A makeshift kitchen will allow you to continue cooking, so you'll save money by not eating out.

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Backyard campout -

Want to save on accommodation and have quality time with the family? This might be an option if you have some outside space in your property.

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Stick to the original plan -

You might end up having some unexpected costs, but sticking to the original plan will minimize these drawbacks.

See also: How to start a decorating project.

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