10 THINGS I Wish I Knew BEFORE RENOVATING MY HOME | S2E7

In today’s episode, I’m share the top 10 things I wish I knew before diving into my home renovation. Discover why costs often exceed initial quotes, how compromises in design are inevitable, and why clear communication is key-don't assume contractors understand your vision! Whether you're gearing up for a major renovation or a simple upgrade, these insights are essential for a smoother journey. Join me for practical tips that could save you time, money, and plenty of headaches!"
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[@maggiepadilla6915]

I had a landscaper that didn’t want to do the design I had drawn out. He argued that I was going to hate it, it was too busy. He even sent me to one he had done that he was sure I would love. I went to see it and couldn’t stop laughing. When I returned he said did you just love it? I said well…if you cant say something nice, don’t say anything at all. He said ok, Ill do what you want but you’re going to hate it. Well, I told him, its my money so please do what I want. After it was done, he said you were right and he sends new clients to check it out. My neighbor’s loved it too. Im not even a gardener, but Im an artist and could see the end result.❤

[@tessajanem]

I would love to see updates of what people do with their spaces once macenna helps them solve their dilemmas!!

[@naturesmymuse]

This podcast was perfectly-timed for me to hear today! We are approaching our next remodel and I feel empowered and ready to over-communicate what we want...with no apologies. Thank you, Macenna, for your excellent advice and supportive spirit! Your kitchen will be lovely. I know it!

[@charlenelindsay2019]

Dear MaCenna, Thank you for this "Ten things" list. If I may...when you speak of the disruptions in the renovation process, we can apply it to our daily lives. Adaptability is so beneficial to each of us. Thank you for addressing it. Oh, and the lady with the pink bathroom, please send MaCenna pictures of your re-do. Her suggestions are fantastic. Hugs💞

[@jenguac]

Recommendation for Myranna: put under cabinet lights (strips from Amazon) and turn on the under cabinet lights until you can redo that big light in the kitchen 😊 sometimes they are just as bright. Maybe this will help

[@carlaurias2102]

I love listening to all your podcasts! As I work on my new build every time somebody suggests something that I should do their way say "Oh if we do it your way will it be free?" That shuts them right up and give me what I initially asked for!😂

[@JBrosBuilt]

Great episode as always Macenna! My brother and I are designers/contractors and just wanted to say that you're doing a great service to your listeners in laying out some realistic expectations for a typical residential remodel.

[@bfranklin1052]

Completely agree, esp with #9. Even when they understand, in the heat of the project, they don't always REMEMBER! I wanted cabinets centered in my laundry area, only to find they'd been mounted flush to one side! By the contractor! Infuriating!!! This was a wonderful episode. Thank you, Macenna!

[@vickiehorn2019]

LOVE all your content! Following all your channels with hypervigilance to see the kitchen finished!

[@veronicalynne6829]

I’m with Romeo on the blue paint! Go team Romeo!

[@WendyCarol-et1qp]

Yes! That's my mantra when I do anything!! I am a net freak, but I just resign myself that it will look worse before it gets better!! LOL

[@kV1ki]

Oh, #9 is so true😂 My plumber thought I was a mean bossy b..ch just because I've reminded him everything multiple times (yet he still was ignoring or forgetting) and asked questions and suggested solutions . Apparently he wasn't used to that, but we made that through 🎉

[@justatitle]

Thanks McCenna. Very helpful.

[@darlaburnett8666]

I don’t always get the chance to listen to your podcast, but this one this is another one that I have listened to when you have re-modeled your homes that you are working and living in. Really good information, especially to new beginners that don’t know what to expect For those of us that have done our own renovations are working with a contractor and all of his subcontractors some really good valid points that you make in regards to continuing to reiterate what you want what you are paying for! You cannot just assume especially here in 2024 a contractor knows What you want or what your vision is McKenna is so right when she tells you you have to be the contractor as well because if you were not, you will not always get what you want need. Again, some really great information and thank you for sharing! You’ve done your own renovation and worked with contractors differently and now you have had contractors do renovations for you and that was different. So hearing your viewpoint on both types of renovations some wonderful information thank you.

[@sandygraetz5166]

Loved this podcast! Thank you for sharing your wisdom … especially like the advice on peoples dilemmas in their Reno’s.😊❤

[@joancaruso170]

I can't wait till you go back to the cottage I love that place.

[@dixieofalltrades]

is that your thermostat by that lamp? seems like it would be too warm to be next to it if it is.

[@vickiehorn2019]

Oh my goodness, do I hear Cade in the background? 🥰

[@marionandrews176]

This is perfect timing. I’m closing on my first home, a 1950 very small Cape. It’s in good condition, but its got a lot original fixtures which I want to change, as well as tweaking the layout a bit. I met with a contractor and he gave me the “no problem, won’t take long”. I nearly fainted when he quoted me an astronomical amount to reno (cabinets and appliances excluded) a kitchen that is maybe 80 sq ft. Being in the NYC area, reno costs are ridiculous. I have zero renovation skills, so I’m at a loss as to what to do.

[@judymcinnis]

I have a feeling that the cottage contractor was getting some type of commission from whomever the manufacturer was of the electric fireplaces. I think that's the reason why he was so adamant about selling the idea to you. You feel like your life is on pause until the project is completed and it's very stressful. Add a newborn to the mix and you want to just throw your hands in the air and say "Everyone, you're done. Get out". 😀❤️🌺

[@naomifrakes6474]

I don’tsee Kinsley cuddling… throwing me off… anyway great info in this Podcast. Very helpful, thank you!

[@briannejackson8531]

You are always so bright and thriving 🩷 I truly love watching all your content because you are such a welcoming soul 🩷🩷

[@alentrevor]

and Mrs T great video thank you so much

[@gosiaswiety]

Hi ❤ loved this episode thank you

[@kayrabey1344]

My first husband worked with plans as an estimater. It was a drywall company. They loved change orders.

[@debbiegordon7622]

Wr had a local handyman come out and do work as he has always done for my Mom..My sister and I wanted an estimate of cost to put an over hang above our front door and extend it out to have a roof over our deck and he said you can't do that it's impossible never has been done..He dismissed me like I was dumb..had another handyman come to build stairs to our deck and I told Jim what I wanted to do over the door and for the deck and he said it can be done you can have an overhang over the door..I think the other guy just didn't want to bother

[@margaritadiaz3779]

Of course, they all want you into the conversation😂😂😂! Your insight on renovations is relatable, and I'm sure there will be more. Your kitchen is going to be spectacular ❤❤❤.

[@justatitle]

What would you have done if you had already hired your contractor and into the process they didn’t want to do what you want? Example, my primary bathroom; Contractor knew I wanted heated floors on the get go, but when it was time to lay flooring, he said he wouldn’t do heated floors because he said heated floors is a waste of time and money, and they often don’t work. He talked me into not getting them. Now going forward, every time I step bare footed on my tile floor, I curse him. Yeah that’s awful I know. But I also get very upset with myself, not being more confident. I just believed him, and getting trades in my rural area wasn’t easy at the time.

[@luvurab]

Maybe it’s because I lived through that era but drop ceilings I do not like. If it is at all financially and structurally possible I would get rid of the drop ceiling all together and buy a pretty light. It would make the kitchen feel larger too.

[@chrismctague5015]

On the first bathroom remodel couldn't she use the product Lone Fox used in his home. It is called Concreta. It is waterproof and he covered the whole bathroom in it.

[@irmawalker7948]

Evening dear McKenna & family. Tks much for sharing your knowledgeable blogs with us. Love, love these. Wanted to request by email but, unable find address.🤔 I adore that beautiful white & lavender stripped oversized shirt. I tried to picture on Google but ng. Can you please, please help? Thank too much. Ms. Irma

[@juemckool]

Can I ask why you wear headphones??

[@michaelamaestas4950]

ASK for what you want, be clear, you paid for all of it.

[@Lucinda_Jackson]

And never be afraid to check as they're working so you can catch things before they go too far awry. Sometimes it's a matter of their not understanding exactly what was wanted. But sometimes they completely understood your wishes and either decided to just do what THEY would like or they decided to do what was easiest for them. In this latter instance, you'll hear a lot of, "This is what the majority of my clients have chosen and they love it" or "I do it this way in most of the kitchens (or decks or etc) that I do and it always looks great and I've had no complaints". If you can catch things before they've gone too far, it's much easier to assert yourself and get things on track with YOUR design plans.

[@Firestarter.999]

Biggest regret, best satisfaction, for each house, please

[@syndygreen1791]

Just curious what happened to Tuesday's episode?

[@tracygarrett3952]

It's MIA. However are we to proceed?

[@sadie_hawkins52]

Does anyone know what sofa macenna has by any chance ?

[@kiaradoesart9682]

I guarantee you that the contractor trying to sell you on the electric fireplace has a connection, a mate or something, who sells that fireplace and who asked for help with sales 😂

[@IceQueen1234]

❤

[@kmorris2238]

👍🏻👍🏻

[@cathleenweaver6483]

After all is done I know your contractor is going to use your kitchen as example of what he can do. There were times when I heard him surprised and agreeing with your design and how it was turning out bc what he was doing was different than a "standard" kitchen reno. Right? 💜💙💚💛🧡 40:37 Did Kinsley go upstairs to check on her brother Cade? hehe

[@LifewithLizzz]

Respectfully, pleaseee get closer to the mic. I have to increase the volume every time. 😩

[@victoriafleming8215]

🤎

[@rileyj5491]

Sorry, but your facts about satin are very much incorrect. Satin can be a fabric, but it is actually a type of weave, like twill, or basket weave. Yes, satin can be made out of man-made fibers, but they can also be made with silk threads. And yes, even 100% silk threads. I study textiles at the fashion Institute of technology, so unfortunately, the language you are using here is just not right.

[@dianajennings9286]

What you have to realize is ..... These are men you're dealing with.

[@lisadiamondstein4256]

Exactly

[@michaelamaestas4950]

I hope you start your own baby equipment company . Design ( your designs ) Cribs , Highchairs , Rocking horses, play pen , toys , wooden storage units.

[@brehiness]

It’s time to hang up the podcasting . The views just keep dwindling

[@Joanna-pz3zp]

❤