Do not change structural elements - As soon as you start knocking down walls your costs increase dramatically. Of course there are exceptions such as in the case of very minor changes. But most other structural changes will have to involve electrical or plumbing work, the work of a contractor or architect and even the approval of a home building code inspector. Changing structural elements also takes more time which could mean an increase in carrying costs.

 Know your flooring costs before demolition - One of the most commonly made mistakes that homeowners make is that they start demolition of flooring before planning for the costs associated with replacing the floors. Did you know that in some cases it is better to leave the existing flooring the way that it is and simply go over it with your new flooring? Doing your homework about your existing flooring situation and your replacement plans can not only save you money, but it can save you a lot of time, effort and frustration. Make sure that labor, installation, material, and equipment costs are all part of your new flooring equation.

 Fixtures and appliances are expensive - It is often difficult to balance form with function when it comes to making a decision about remodeling. Often times what may look up-scale does not perform well or what may look shabby works just as well as a new model. Fixtures and appliances are often the most expensive parts of doing a remodel especially if it is a remodel of the kitchen. If the function of your current appliances is fine but the look is not, just change the look! There are self-adhesive sheeting products available that can be used to re-face your current appliances in virtually any finish including stainless steel. If it is necessary to replace a fixture or appliance, shop around and haggle when appropriate. Larger ticket items such as these should always be at least a little price negotiable.

 Try to work with existing elements - During a remodel, outdated cabinets and fixtures in the kitchen and bathroom, are too often discarded as unsalvageable. In reality re-painting these cabinet pieces or affixing new hardware to them is all that they need to look like new again. When it comes to bathroom finishes and fixtures there are cost effective ways of re-glazing and cleaning that may restore your bathroom's original luster at a fraction of the cost. Make sure that you consider alternatives to complete replacement and it will end up saving you big bucks on your remodel.