How to Renovate Without Losing Control of Your Finances

By Ester White Gherea | WBN News | July 28, 2025

Let’s be real—renovating is exciting, but it’s also a major financial decision.
And one of the first things I hear from homeowners is this:
“I’m terrified it’s going to cost way more than I think.”

That fear is completely valid. We’ve all heard stories about renovations spiraling out of control—hidden issues behind walls, unexpected delays, or choosing finishes that break the bank. But here’s the truth:

👉 You can renovate beautifully and stay in control.
It just takes the right mindset, smart planning, and a clear guide by your side.

1. **Start With a Real Budget (Not a Dream One)**

It’s tempting to start with your wish list and try to squeeze the budget around it—but that leads to stress and disappointment. Instead, set a clear number that’s comfortable for you, not just what someone on TikTok spent.

Be honest with yourself:

What’s your absolute max investment?
What’s your ideal spend?
And do you have a buffer (10–15%) for surprises?

A good designer will help you understand what’s achievable within that range—without judging or pushing.

2. Understand Where the Money Goes

It’s easy to assume the bulk of your budget is going toward tiles and countertops, but in reality, things like labour, permits, delivery, and installation can eat up a large portion of the pie.

Here’s a very rough breakdown for context:

40–50%: Labour (contractors, electricians, plumbers)
20–30%: Materials (finishes, flooring, cabinets)
10–15%: Appliances and fixtures
5–10%: Design, permits, and contingency

When clients see this mapped out, it’s often the moment everything clicks. The scary unknowns become predictable numbers—and that alone brings relief.

3. Don’t Let Pinterest Blow Up Your Budget

Let’s talk about the “Inspiration Spiral.”
You fall in love with a $9,000 range, an exotic tile from Italy, and a sculptural light fixture you spotted on a celebrity designer’s feed. It’s gorgeous—but is it you, and is it worth blowing your whole plan?

Instead of focusing on the price tag, ask:

Does this elevate the design or just make it expensive?
Are there beautiful, budget-friendly alternatives I can love just as much?
Will this choice still make sense five years from now?

Your designer (hi, that’s me 👋) can help you balance smart splurges with clever saves—so your space looks high-end without being high-stress.

4. **Use a Designer to Prevent Costly Mistakes**

Hiring a designer might feel like “extra” spending—but in reality, a designer protects your budget from going sideways.

Here’s how I help my clients stay in control:

Source within your budget (not just your taste)
Review quotes and call out hidden costs or red flags
Design it right the first time (because changing your mind mid-project? That gets expensive fast)
Coordinate timelines so you’re not paying for trades to wait around

Renovating without a designer is like trying to fly without a flight plan—you might get off the ground, but it’s going to be bumpy.

5. Plan. Then Plan Again.

The best way to stay on budget?
Plan every detail before the first hammer swings.
That means choosing finishes, fixtures, and layouts early, so you’re not making rushed decisions when the pressure’s on. Last-minute changes = last-minute costs.

I walk clients through a step-by-step roadmap—so when construction starts, you’re not guessing, reacting, or stressing. You’re ready.

You Deserve a Renovation That Feels Right—Financially and Emotionally

Going over budget doesn’t happen because you’re bad with money.
It happens when there’s no plan, no guidance, and no one watching the big picture.
But it doesn’t have to be that way.

You can renovate with confidence, clarity, and control.
And I’d love to show you how.

📞 Book your complimentary consultation and let’s talk about your space, your goals—and how to make this renovation the one that works for your lifestyle and your wallet.

Ester White Gherea is an Interior Designer and the founder of Gherea Studio.
She can be reached at 236-339-6644 or estergherea@gmail.com. Connect with Ester on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/ester-white-gherea-6b339a2b5/. Connect with Ester at https://www.ghereastudio.com/.

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