What Happens When Your Offer Has Been Accepted on Your Renovation Project?
- sarah burrows
- Feb 10
- 5 min read
When the offer on your renovation project gets accepted, it's an exciting moment – it’s the first step toward turning that house into your future dream home! But as much as it’s thrilling, it’s also the beginning of a huge commitment, and there will be moments when you’re asking yourself why you’re doing this (especially when your kids are wondering why you didn’t just buy a ready-to-move-in home).
The emotions will definitely go up and down. One moment you’ll be excited about all the possibilities, and the next, you’ll remind yourself just how much work is ahead of you. It's normal, and it’s all part of the process. When your offer has been accepted, it’s time to get excited about your new space, but also to put on your organization and business hat. Let’s dive into how to get started on the right foot:
1️⃣ Get Excited – It’s Your Future Dream Home!
First things first, celebrate! It’s easy to get caught up in the logistics, but this is your dream home in the making. Enjoy the moment.
2️⃣ Conduct a Property Survey
If you haven't done so already, it's time for a thorough property survey. You don’t want to miss any potential issues, especially when the project is about to kick off. A professional survey will highlight areas you might not have considered.
3️⃣ Design Input – Thinking of Extending? Chat with Architects
If this is your forever home, you may want to extend or completely alter the layout. Some people prefer to live in the space for a bit before making major changes – this is a personal decision. From my experience, though, if you know you’re going to make changes (like an extension), don’t wait too long to start planning. The sooner you get an architect involved, the smoother things will go.
4️⃣ Find Qualified Contractors – They Might Be Booked Months in Advance!
The contractors you choose will be working with you for months. It's crucial to find the right one. Ask for recommendations, check local Facebook groups, and make sure to read reviews. Don’t rush this decision – it will save you time, stress, and money in the long run.
5️⃣ Get Quotes & Compare Prices – Develop a Renovation Plan
Now, it’s time to start thinking about your budget. If you know major projects (like a new roof or windows) will be part of the renovation, get quotes early on. Comparing prices will help you stay within your budget and avoid surprises later. Write down a detailed plan to manage expectations!
6️⃣ Check for Permits – Don’t Skip This Step
If you’re extending or altering the structure of your property, checking permits is a must. Renovating without the correct permits can lead to legal issues, fines, or even being asked to demolish the work. Make sure everything is in order with the local council!
7️⃣ Establish a Timeline – Set Goals and Deadlines
Set a start and end date for your project. This will help you stay on track and keep everyone motivated. While things often take longer than planned, having a timeline is essential for organizing your work and ensuring you make progress. Keep the goal in mind!
Now, When You Get the Keys...
This is the fun part! Your renovation journey has officially begun. Here’s how to keep things organized and stay sane during the chaos:
1️⃣ Scream! (Okay, maybe just an excited shout!)You’ve got the keys to your future dream home, so celebrate the win!
2️⃣ Take Pictures Before Anything ChangesIt’s important to document the space before the renovation begins. You’ll appreciate having those “before” pictures when it’s time for the epic “after” shots.
3️⃣ Feeling Overwhelmed? That’s Totally Normal!Your first day may bring a flood of emotions – excitement, stress, fear, you name it. It's totally normal to feel overwhelmed. In fact, I cried on the first day of my first full-house renovation! You’re not alone, and it’s okay to feel nervous.
4️⃣ Make Sure You Have Something to Eat!Let’s face it – you’ll probably be too busy to cook during the first few days. Grab some takeout and don’t worry about it!
5️⃣ Don’t Forget Heaters & Bed LinenYou’ll want to make the space as comfortable as possible while it’s in chaos. Heating and fresh bedding go a long way in maintaining some semblance of normalcy.
6️⃣ Stock Up on Cleaning Supplies It may not be clean when you arrive. Having all your cleaning supplies ready will help you keep things in order,.
7️⃣ Involve Your Kids (If You Have Them!)If you’re renovating with children, try to get them involved in the process. They’ll likely have a lot of questions, but once they see the transformation unfolding, they’ll begin to understand why you’re doing it.
Living on Site During a Renovation: The Pros & Cons
Not everyone can afford to rent a place while renovating. It’s challenging, but there are pros to living on site:
Budget Constraints: If you’re working with a tight budget, living in the house during renovations can save money.
Close Monitoring of the Project: You’re right there, so you can keep a close eye on the progress.
Understanding the Space Better: Being in the space gives you a deeper understanding of how everything will function.
But There Are Also Challenges:
Disruption to Daily Life: Renovations can make daily routines difficult. If you can, try to carve out a space for some peace.
Stress and Inconvenience: Constant noise, dust, and disruption are stressful. It’s okay to feel overwhelmed.
Safety Concerns: Renovation zones can be hazardous, especially for children. Make sure safety measures are in place.
Potential Cost Overruns: Living in the space may make you more inclined to make unplanned changes, which could affect the budget.
Alternative Option: Living in a Caravan on the Land
If you have the space, consider living in a caravan on your property. It gives you a place to retreat at the end of the day, and it’s easier for your builders to work without the added disruption of living in the house.
Renovating a home is a big commitment, but it’s also incredibly rewarding. If you plan, stay organized, and take time to enjoy the process, you’ll create a home that’s truly your own – and your family will love it too!
I love a before and after image: Here's the Dining Room/ Formal Living
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