How to avoid going over budget when remodelling

Plan, plan and plan again
Prior planning and preparation is everything when it comes to successful budgeting. The clearer your idea of what you want to achieve, the more detailed quote you can agree and the fewer changes and additions you will have to make. Draw up room plans to scale on graph paper and try to imagine everything you would like in each room. Watch inspirational TV programmes (not cheap and cheerful makeovers), research magazines and search the internet for the type of look you want to achieve. Above all, experiment. The more experimenting you do before the physical work starts, the better.

Don't skimp on the architect
If you need to have plans drawn up for your project, don't think you can save money by getting as cheap an architect as possible. Unclear plans mean costly delays, extra architect visits and a great deal of stress. These plans form the blueprint for the build and should be as clear and detailed as possible. A good architect will also add thousands to the value of your property with a strong, intelligent design. Don't be afraid to discuss your design ideas with them. A recent client of my firm had employed a cheap architect who turned out not to be qualified; he missed vital details like how the roof was to be constructed and the need to raise the chimney stack.

Choose your builder wisely
A good builder is fundamental to keeping control of the budget. A good design-led builder can advise you where best to spend your money, what you can and cannot compromise on and what your most important priorities are. He will have the contacts and the knowledge about products and materials that look great but do not cost the earth. (Don't always go for the cheapest option; it may well cost you far more in the long run.)

Get a detailed quote
These days, the best builders invest time in preparing as detailed a quotation as possible. It is better to ask them to try and account for absolutely everything they can think of to begin with. You can then work out what you don't need. Ask them to break the job down and price up each aspect. For example, the cost of each light switch, spotlight and double socket. That way, you can decide where you need to compromise. Perhaps you didn't need 16 double sockets in the living room after all...