Top 5 Home Renovation Tips for Newly Engaged Couples

Congratulations and hurrah to the newly engaged couple! This celebration-worthy milestone marks a turning point in your life together. However, even as you celebrate it, remember that this is only step one of your journey, and here’s why.

While choosing the perfect wedding venue, debating floral arrangements, and exploring honeymoon destinations are all exciting, creating a home that reflects your style as a couple is just as exciting and perhaps even more important. That’s why, whether you intend to move into a new space or renovate an existing one, you need all the help you can get as you embark on the fulfilling journey of turning a house into a home.

To that end, the following five practical home renovation tips for newly engaged will ensure the process is smooth and a bonding experience for you and your significant other.

Set a Realistic Budget

Balancing home renovation costs with other big expenses like a dream wedding and the honeymoon is the first essential thing newly engaged couples should do. While it’s tempting to go all out in both areas, setting a budget ensures that neither your renovation nor your wedding ends up derailing your financial plans.

Start by identifying which parts of the house you want to prioritize. Does the kitchen need a facelift, or is the bathroom outdated? After determining the main focus areas, research the average costs of renovating those spaces, but don’t forget to leave a buffer for unexpected expenses that often crop up during renovations.

One super innovative way to ensure you have the budget for a home renovation project is to opt for cost-effective engagement ring options or discuss the prospect of trading in an expensive round brilliant-cut diamond engagement ring for a cheaper Emerald or Asscher-cut diamond—you could even go for a symbolic gemstone.

The fundamental thing to remember is that since home renovations are costly, prioritizing your future together and making financially sound decisions that reflect this mutual commitment, even if that means prioritizing your home over expensive jewelry, can make all the difference.

Now that we’re talking about having a shared vision:

Agree on a Shared Vision

Have a shared vision for your renovation. It can be easy for personal preferences to clash during a project as involved as a home renovation.

To avoid the stress, tension, and disagreements that often crop up, create time to sit down together to discuss what you both want from the renovation. Look for inspiration online or in magazines, and create a vision board of ideas you both like.

Having a clear and united vision will keep you on the same page as the project progresses. Remember that compromise is key—it’s important to incorporate elements that reflect your tastes.

If you can’t agree on aesthetics, consider the space’s functionality and comfort. For example, if your SO prioritizes style while you focus more on practical aspects, blend both perspectives to create a beautiful, inviting, and livable space.

Start Small

Home renovations don’t have to be tackled all at once. Starting small can help ease the stress of renovating while balancing wedding planning. Focus on one room at a time, especially if you try to stick to a budget.

For example, begin with a smaller project like updating the guest bedroom or revamping the entryway. Starting small gives you time to adjust to the renovation without becoming overwhelmed.

Once you’ve completed a small project, you’ll better understand what to expect as you move on to larger renovations, such as the kitchen or master bedroom.

Suppose you’re tight on time due to wedding preparations. In that case, you might also want to focus on essential updates, like repainting or changing the flooring, instead of launching into major structural changes.

Plan for the Future

When planning renovations, think about your future as a couple.

Are you planning on expanding your family in the next few years? Will you be hosting frequent family gatherings or staying at home long term? These questions can help you decide while ensuring your renovations meet your evolving needs.

For example, if children are in your future, you may consider creating a flexible office space that you can later convert into a nursery. Or, if you’re envisioning many future gatherings, an open-plan kitchen and living area might be the right choice.

Planning for the future can save you money on additional renovations while keeping your home functional and adaptable as you grow.

Hire the Right Professionals

For larger renovation projects, it’s essential to hire the right professionals. Trying to cut corners by hiring cheaper contractors can often lead to costly mistakes. Take the time to research and read reviews before selecting a contractor.

Once you’ve narrowed your options, ask for detailed estimates and timelines. Doing that will give you a clearer idea of how much each project will cost and how long it will take. A good contractor will communicate clearly and work within your budget and vision to make the renovation smoother and more enjoyable.

You may also want to consult a designer or architect if your renovation involves complex designs or major changes. Their expertise can ensure your space feels personal, beautiful, and functional.

Read more: Mistakes to avoid during your next home project

Conclusion

Renovating your home as a newly engaged couple can be a thrilling step toward building a life together. Setting a realistic budget, creating a shared vision, and thinking about the future can make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

With these tips at your fingertips, you can create a space that reflects your love and partnership while staying within your financial boundaries.

Written by Billy Guteng. October 15, 2024

Billy is a content writer for Kukun. He was born in France, and has lived in multiple cities around the world ever since. He loves art, design and architecture as well as construction and real estate.