That sewer line part hit home—ours ran right under a huge tree, and we had to pay extra for root removal. I swear, the “hidden” costs are the real budget killers. I’d also add: don’t underestimate how much time you’ll lose waiting for inspections or permits. Sometimes you’re just stuck, tools down, burning money on delays. Having a clear must-have list is smart, but I’d also say leave a little wiggle room for those creative ideas that pop up mid-build. That’s where the fun happens, if your wallet can handle it.
That sewer line drama is real. We had a similar surprise—except ours was a random old pipe nobody could identify, right where the foundation was supposed to go. Cue the extra demo and a lot of head-scratching from the crew.
I’d also add: don’t underestimate how much time you’ll lose waiting for inspections or permits. Sometimes you’re just stuck, tools down, burning money on delays.
This part’s been wild for me. I thought I could “plan around” inspections, but nope—turns out the city’s timeline is its own beast. Did anyone else have to resubmit plans because of a tiny technicality? I’m starting to think the permit office has a dartboard for approvals.
On the creative ideas mid-build... I keep wondering how people budget for that. Do you set aside a percentage for “spontaneous genius” or just hope your contingency covers it? I’m trying to be all spreadsheet about it, but then I see a cool built-in or window idea and suddenly my numbers are out the window (pun intended). Anyone actually stick to their original plan?
Honestly, I’ve never seen a project stick 100% to the original plan—there’s always some “ooh, what if we did this?” moment. I usually tell people: add at least 10% for those creative curveballs. Spreadsheets are great until you see that perfect tile or window... then it’s game over.
I get the temptation—those “just one more upgrade” moments are real. But honestly, does anyone actually stick to just 10% extra? Last time I built out a shed, my “creative curveballs” turned into a whole new roofline and a surprise pizza oven. Ended up closer to 25% over. Is it just me, or do those spreadsheets always lie a little?
Honestly, you’re not alone—those spreadsheets are more like wishful thinking than reality checks. Every project I’ve worked on, there’s always a “while we’re at it…” moment. Ten percent is a fantasy unless you have ironclad discipline and zero imagination. Once you see the potential for something better (or tastier, in your case), it’s hard to stick to the plan. I’d say 20-25% over is almost standard if you want it done right and want to enjoy the space. And honestly, who regrets adding a pizza oven?
