Great Expectations: Keeping Your Home Project Realistic

The other day, I stumbled across Tiny House Hunters. Holy unrealistic expectations, Batman! These folks were out here expecting a full-size kitchen, separate offices for two people, and a king-size bed (with plenty of space to walk around it)… all inside a house smaller than 400 square feet, with a $35,000 budget. Including delivery. Spoiler alert: it didn’t happen.

At first, I was all kinds of cranky-pants about it. Who actually believes they can get all that for that price?! And why didn’t their realtor explain reality to them? Then I felt bad for judging strangers on TV (other people do that, right? Just me?). But it got me thinking—unrealistic expectations aren’t just a reality TV problem. They pop up in real-life home projects all the time. Here’s how to make sure they don’t derail yours.

Budget vs. Reality

We’ve talked before about the time/cost/quality triangle—how you can prioritize two, but not all three. But even when you think you’ve found the right balance, you have to make sure it’s actually possible. For example, say you’ve budgeted $50,000 for a kitchen remodel, expecting custom cabinets, high-end appliances, and luxury finishes. Depending on labor and material costs, that budget might barely cover cabinetry—before you even get to countertops, flooring, or plumbing.

Lesson: Be clear on what your budget can realistically achieve, and work with a professional who can help you set priorities before you start tearing down walls.

The Space-Time Continuum (Or, How Much Actually Fits in a Room)

Another common issue? Assuming you can squeeze more functionality into a space than physics allows. I once had a homeowner who wanted to fit a massive walk-in pantry, a double oven, and an oversized island without expanding their existing kitchen footprint. The reality? The layout just wouldn’t support it. The only way to achieve their vision was to rework adjacent rooms—something they hadn’t considered.

Lesson: If you’re planning a remodel or new build, consult a professional early to confirm what’s actually possible within your space constraints.

Timing is Everything

Expecting a major home renovation to wrap up in a few weeks? Think again. Custom cabinetry can take months to arrive, permits can delay start dates, and unexpected construction hiccups (hello, surprise plumbing issues) can throw a wrench in the schedule. And let’s not even get into weather-related delays if your project involves exterior work.

Lesson: If you want your project done right, plan for realistic timelines. A good contractor or project manager will help you set clear expectations from the beginning.

The Fix? Adjust, Don’t Panic

If your expectations are a little out of whack, don’t worry—I reserve my cranky-pants judgment for people on national TV who insist they must have it all. My job is to help you see what’s actually possible and make adjustments before your project turns into a stressful, expensive mess.

Need help making sure your expectations align with reality? Let’s chat. Click below to get started.