7 Home Renovation Mistakes The Property Brothers Want You To Avoid

If you're in the midst of a home renovation or considering taking on some home renovation projects, it can sometimes be helpful to step away from the nitty-gritty of the day-to-day and consider the big picture. Without even knowing it, you may be making a mistake or two that could sabotage your renovations—or negatively impact your home's resale value. Thankfully, like most things in the home renovation space, The Property Brothers are here to come to our rescue. Below, seven common home renovation mistakes these famous siblings want you to avoid.

Picking the Cheapest Contractor

"The lowest bid never equals the best job," Jonathan said, in an HGTV Magazine article. In general, Jonathan suggests bringing in at least three contractors and obtaining written estimates from each. "Some give cheap quotes just to get the job, then tack things on or cut corners and install low-quality products."

Cluttering the Entryway

"All you're saying in this house [with a stuffed-to-the-gills foyer] is 'There's no storage, there's no room,'" Drew said in an episode of Property Brothers: Buying & Selling, as recapped on Realtor.com.

Not Investing in What You Can't See

Just because it's not a visual upgrade, doesn't mean it's not a worthwhile renovation that can't add value to your home if you're trying to sell it, and comfort, elegance, and style if you're trying to live in it. "For example, we always recommend a bathroom membrane system, which goes under tiles to prevent them from popping and cracking, and keeps water from getting into the substructure," Jonathan said in the same HGTV Magazine piece. "I tell clients, 'If you're spending $15,000 on a bathroom, spend an extra $1,000 to guarantee you'll never have a mold problem.'" Another thing they say is worth investing in? Energy-efficient mirrors.

Painting Your Walls Red or Yellow

As we previously reported, The Property Brothers really don't want you to paint your walls red or yellow. In an episode dubbed "Condo Dreams," of HGTV's Property Brothers: Buying and Selling, they told the clients that "yellow walls don't really sell these days," and made it clear that the "angry '90s red wall" had to go.

Whites and colors inspired by nature are good bets for interior wall colors. The 2022 color of the year chosen by leading paint companies? Shades of green.

Automatically Choosing Hardwood Floors

We know, we know. They can be gorgeous. But as The Property Brothers advise, they aren't always the best choice. "Pets' nails can damage hardwood very quickly, and kids mean more wear and tear too," Drew said in the aforementioned HGTV Magazine article. Instead of hardwood floors, The Property Brothers recommend single-board laminate, which can look just as luxurious but holds up to frequent use from kids and pets better.

Assuming Granite Is Best

Granite may be a popular choice for kitchen countertops because of its durability, but its popularity is waning and there are other more affordable options that can save you a lot of money. The Property Brothers suggest plate steel, butcher block, or laminate. "Laminate is less durable than a solid-surface counter, but some choices look a lot like real granite," Jonathan says in HGTV Magazine.

Laminate countertops have come a long way, and with many color and design options, they can provide an inexpensive upgrade that's maintenance-free. Butcher block requires regular maintenance like oiling and is susceptible to cuts and dings, but some feel that's part of its timeless charm. If kept up well, it can have a long life.

Underestimating Cost

When doing any home renovations, it's great to have a budget and stick to it. You've had an estimate and agreed to your contractor's plan, but understand that surprises can and do arise. Drew advises including some room in your budget for unexpected problems. Replacing a backsplash or relocating an outlet may sound simple, but it could lead to drywall damage and the discovery of electrical or mold issues. "I always tell people to set aside 15% of the total project cost—even more for older homes—for unexpected expenses."