Most people think they are better than average. This phenomenon is referred to as illusory superiority. People often overestimate their own abilities and think they possess certain characteristics and traits that others lack.

Perhaps you are more intelligent than most people. After all, you now know the psychological term for this cognitive bias of superiority that can so easily trip people up in many areas of their lives. You are also learning how to avoid these five biggest renovation mistakes that many investors make.

1. Underestimating the true costs of renovations and repairs

 
People often think in broad terms when evaluating properties. They might get some input from the inspector and then just use a round number like $60,000 for all renovations.

When the actual bids for needed work are itemized and repairs reveal hidden defects or unanticipated costs, the bill often ends up being twice what they had in their renovation budget. Your accuracy improves over time, so err on the side of caution and don’t let how much you might like the location cloud your renovation budget estimates.

2. Thinking the value will always increase by at least the costs of renovations

 
Real estate is a speculative business. The market changes and some people lose money. You can minimize your risks with prudent decisions and due diligence, but there is always some risk. If you want a guarantee, put your money in a FDIC account.

3. Skipping the profitability analysis

 
Investors must calculate profitability before purchasing a property. Much like the stock market, there are always sellers and buyers in the real estate market. As an investor, you should be considering several possible deals at any given time. You are going to move forward with some, but you will walk away from others. The profitability analysis helps you compare deals and consider various possibilities within the same property.
 
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4. Cutting corners on renovations

 
Always use the services of licensed contractors with suitable experience. Many people are tempted to cut costs by using low-grade materials and unsafe contractors. You are liable for what happens on that property before, during, and after renovations.

5. Carrying out the wrong renovations

 
Renovations can be a particularly enjoyable aspect of real estate investing for many people. Nevertheless, you should not renovate based on your personal tastes. Instead, you should base renovations on your target market and what will bring you the best possible return on your investment. Shopping at home improvement stores is great, but you don’t earn money indulging yourself. Be selective about what renovations you do and stick only with those that add value.

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Investing In Apartment Buildings: Renovation Tips and Photos

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Great Tips for a Multifamily Renovation

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Theresa Bradley-Banta writes about investing in real estate while avoiding the pitfalls that plague many new investors. She is a 2017 PropTech Top 100 Influencer and winner of 14 American and International real estate awards for her website and real estate investing programs. As featured on: The Equifax Finance Blog, AOL’s Daily Finance, Scotsman Guide, The Best Real Estate Investing Advice Ever Show, Stevie Awards Blog, Rental Housing Journal, and Investors Beat among others.