Planning a home renovation can feel overwhelming, especially when budgets, timelines and trust are on the line.

In this episode of The House Therapy Podcast, I sit down with Marlon Galea of Upfront Renovations for an honest and practical conversation every homeowner should hear before starting a renovation or remodel.

Marlon shares real world insights from over 20 years as a general contractor including the biggest mistakes homeowners make before hiring a contractor, how to spot red flags early and why the cheapest quote often ends up costing the most.

We talk about budgeting realities, what a reasonable deposit actually looks like, why bathrooms often blow budgets and how planning and communication can save you stress, money and regret.

This episode is packed with value whether you are renovating to live, renovate to sell or planning a future project and want to do it right.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode

• The biggest mistakes homeowners make before calling a contractor

• Smart questions to ask before hiring a general contractor

• Red flags to watch for when reviewing renovation quotes

• What a reasonable renovation deposit looks like

• Why bathrooms are often more expensive than homeowners expect

• How to avoid budget blowouts during a remodel

• Why design planning saves money, not costs more

• What renovations add real long-term value to your home

• When homeowners should move out during a renovation

• How to protect your home emotionally and financially during construction

Who This Episode Is For

• Homeowners planning a renovation or remodel

• Sellers preparing their home for the market

• Buyers renovating after purchase

• Anyone who has had a bad contractor experience

• Anyone who wants to renovate smarter with fewer surprises

Guest Information

Marlon Galea - General Contractor

Upfront Renovations Website: https://www.upfrontrenovations.ca

If this episode resonated with you:

• What renovation mistake are you most worried about

• What room are you planning to renovate next

• Have you ever had a renovation surprise you wish you had avoided

Leave a comment share this episode with someone renovating right now and subscribe for more real conversations about homes design and smart decision making.

If you are planning a renovation or preparing your home for sale and want help aligning design decisions with real life use and long-term value, you can book a design or staging consultation through the link below.

Remember, if you take care of your home it will take care of you.

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Want to work with me or get support with your home?

Book a consultation anytime at isodesign.ca or directly through my scheduling link: https://bit.ly/ISOschedule

Have a story to share or want to be a guest on House Therapy?

I’d love to hear from you! Email me at info@isodesign.ca with the subject line Podcast Guest Inquiry.

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