“I’VE HELPED PLAN hundreds of renovation jobs,” says Róisín Murphy, “and I know the things that are going to cost you time and money.”

As an architect with over 25 years of experience, Róisín has brought design projects of all sizes to life, and she’s well versed in the classic mistakes that can trip homeowners up.

Budget is a common hurdle, she says, and it’s a mistake that can crop up in a few different ways. Sometimes, Róisín sees people forgetting to factor in hidden costs (“things like planning permission or moving out while the project is getting done”). Other times, homeowners simply expect a project to cost less than it does.

Taking the time to do your research will help you to set a realistic budget, no matter how big or small a renovation job you are planning. Having an open mind helps too, says Róisín. Can you break your project down into stages, for example, rather than trying to complete it all in one go? “Making compromises is probably where you need to start,” she adds.

In the final instalment of our House2GreenerHome video series with the Credit Union, we’re looking at common home renovation mistakes – like setting an unrealistic budget – and how best to avoid them.

To wise up on the biggest errors and get expert advice to help your own renovations go smoothly, watch the video above.

Considering some upgrades to make your home more energy efficient? Kickstart your plans with a Green Home Improvement Loan from your Credit Union, ideal for large-scale renovations, smaller projects and everything in between. Find out more today.