Myth #1: Any renovation is a good one.

Some people think that any improvement is a good one, but not all home improvements are created equal. All renovations require planning, time, money and sometimes council approval. If you are planning on living with the new renovations for years to come then you may get value for money. However if the reno’s are being done specifically for resale, then call in an expert to see what ‘actual’ value they will really add. Sometimes the return does not equal the effort. Renovations should also have broad appeal – so before you install that remember you may want to sell one day!

Myth #2: I can do it myself.

You may be convinced that you can do it just as well as a contractor, but news flash! You can’t. You may just have an unrealistic idea of your “knack” for renovating. Doing it your self can sometimes save money, but you need to know your limits. Don’t be afraid to ask for help. There are certain low-risk projects that are very simple to tackle on your own, but there are many others for which you need a professional.

Myth #3: Pools add value.

A lot of people think that adding a swimming pool and/or a spa is a sure way to increase the resale value of their home. That’s not always true. Many buyers can be very specific about their desire to ‘have’ or ‘not have’ a pool in the new family home. In addition to safety concerns, pools cost money to run and can be a lot of work to maintain in winter. Depending on the demographic of the buyer of your home, they may not always see the up side!

Myth #4: Follow the latest design trends.

Many homeowners think it’s a good idea to follow the latest design trends. Not true. For instance, peach textured wallpaper went out in the ’80s. In order to broaden a home’s general appear, features like that must go before a house goes on the market. Neutral colours or palettes have more of a timeless feel and will appeal to far more people.