Before you start any renovation project we recommend taking the time for due diligence and homework. Going to show homes, home renovation stores, and looking in home and garden type magazines, are good ways to see what new ideas there are for home construction, styles and colours.

Take into consideration how long you will be living in the home following the renovations. If you are going to stay in the home for another 15 years, then the renovations should be more customized to your long term needs. Consider your age, maybe, it is time to widen door frames for a walker. It might be the time to consider a larger bath room with hand rails.

Look at innovative ideas for children's rooms keeping in mind your toddler will be off to college in 15 years so a built in tiny bed might not be practical. Classic looking bedrooms work well for children and young adults.

If you are moving in a few years you may want to focus more on the bathroom and kitchen upgrades which will increase the value of the home. Keep in mind, not all home renovations will increase the home's value. Build for your neighbourhood.