"Did you use specific software or just basic spreadsheets for your restoration records?"
I've tried both, but honestly, spreadsheets ended up being easier for me—especially since I could customize them exactly how I wanted. Have you thought about using Google Sheets? Super handy for accessing records on-the-go...
I've been sticking with spreadsheets too—tried a fancy software trial once, but honestly spent more time figuring out how to use it than actually tracking my stuff. Google Sheets sounds handy though...might give it a whirl next time I'm knee-deep in drywall dust.
I've stuck with plain old Excel myself—no frills, gets the job done. Tried Google Sheets briefly, but didn't love having to be online all the time. Curious, do you guys track every tiny expense or just ballpark it?
I used to track every single cent, but honestly, it got exhausting pretty fast. Now I just ballpark it unless it's something major like appliances or flooring—those I jot down carefully. Funny story: once I thought I was saving big on paint, grabbed a bunch of discounted cans without tracking costs...ended up spending more fixing the color mismatch later. Lesson learned, sorta. Do you guys find detailed tracking actually helps catch sneaky expenses, or does it mostly just add stress?
I totally get the exhaustion factor—been there myself—but I have to gently disagree on ditching detailed tracking completely. From my experience with an older home, those sneaky expenses often hide in the little things, not just major appliances or flooring. Case in point: vintage hardware. Thought I'd scored big on some antique door knobs at a flea market. Didn't track the small purchases, of course, and only later realized I'd spent double what a complete matching set would have cost online. Ouch.
What I've found helpful is a middle ground: loosely tracking categories rather than every cent. I keep a simple spreadsheet with rough totals per room or project. It's not obsessive, but detailed enough to catch when I'm drifting off-budget. Plus, it helps avoid those "bargain" traps that seem great until you tally it all up later...
