- It will cost more than you think.
- It will cost more than you have.
- Presenters of property programmes will usually know more about property and building than the people appearing on the show.
- People appearing on the show will usually ignore any and all advice given by the presenter (or their builder … or their architect).
- It will take longer than you think. (This is especially true if your plan is dependent on good weather … in the UK … in November.)
- Doing things yourself may save money but will rarely save time.
- Living on-site is always a Bad Idea.
- Not visiting the site regularly to manage contractors is a Bad Idea.
- There will always be a problem with the structure of the building that cannot be seen until work starts. (If it’s a period property or listed building, this will immediately double your costs and amount of time required … at least.)
- I will ignore any and all of the above lessons when it comes to working on my own home.
So true! I am addicted to Grand Designs, and they make the same mistakes every week!
I will ignore any and all of the above lessons when it comes to working on my own home.
I can see myself going down this route already…particularly since we are buying a listed building! Luckily it seems to be mostly in good nick…fingers crossed!