【Don’t start renovating just yet!】 5 things you should do before renovating your new home in Toronto!

Bought a New Home in Toronto? The Real Challenge May Just Be Beginning.

Buying your dream home and receiving the keys is an exciting moment. Finally, you have a place to call your own. You start imagining how you will decorate it, arrange the space, and create a home that reflects your lifestyle. Just thinking about it is exciting.

But once the keys are in your hands, another task comes along that can be both exciting and overwhelming which is "renovating your new home".

For many homeowners who have just purchased a property in Toronto, buying the home may only be the first step. From planning the layout and choosing a renovation team to selecting flooring, kitchen finishes, lighting, and furniture, every detail takes time and careful consideration. If you want to gradually turn your new property into your dream home, proper preparation before starting the renovation is essential.

1. Check the condition of your home before deciding what to renovate

Once you receive the keys, don't rush into construction right away. Take some time to carefully inspect the condition of the property, including the walls, flooring, windows and doors, heating system, electrical systems, plumbing, and other major components.

If you purchased a new-build home, make sure you understand the builder's warranty coverage and what is included. If you purchased a resale property, take the time to understand its current condition and find out whether any renovations or major work were previously completed.

2. Don't budget only for the renovations you can see

Your renovation budget shouldn't only include obvious items such as flooring, painting, kitchen, and bathroom renovations. Don't forget to budget for lighting, window coverings, appliances, furniture, moving costs, and other miscellaneous expenses.

More importantly, it is a good idea to set aside an additional 10%–20% contingency budget for unexpected costs or additional work that may arise during construction.

After all, one of the most common renovation experiences is: “I only wanted to replace the flooring… and somehow ended up needing to fix a whole bunch of other things too.”

3. Understand Toronto's renovation requirements before starting

Not every renovation project in Toronto can simply begin without checking the applicable requirements. Depending on the scope of the work, you may need a Building Permit, and certain electrical, plumbing, or structural work may be subject to specific requirements.

If you live in a condominium, you may also need to follow your building's renovation rules and obtain approval from the condominium management or board before starting work.

Before construction begins, make sure you understand whether your renovation requires permits, approvals, or other documentation. This can help you avoid discovering halfway through the project that additional approvals are required.

4. Don't choose a renovation team based on price alone

The lowest quote doesn't necessarily mean the best deal. When comparing renovation contractors or companies, consider their experience, previous projects, estimated timeline, payment schedule, and whether the quotation clearly outlines the materials and scope of work.

It is also a good idea to put the scope of work, materials, payment schedule, and expected completion date in writing. A clear agreement can help minimize misunderstandings and unexpected costs during the renovation process.

5. Finally, give yourself some time

You don't have to finish everything at once. After moving into your new home, start with the areas that are most important and have the biggest impact on your daily life. You can gradually work on the rest of the home over time.

After all, a true home isn't simply about having beautiful interiors. It's about making thoughtful choices, adding personal touches, and gradually creating a space that fits the way you live.

Buying a home is the beginning of a dream. Renovating it is how you slowly turn that dream into a home.

If you've recently received the keys to your new home in Toronto, congratulations! The next stage may be a little busy, and perhaps even a little stressful, but once everything starts coming together, you'll realize that it was all worth it.🏡