Whether you're building a custom home or renovating your current one, the budget can be one of the biggest sources of stress — and surprise.

It’s not always the big-ticket items that catch homeowners off guard. Often, it’s the unexpected details, permit fees, or even the labor behind a Pinterest-worthy finish. So, we asked the pros:

“What part of the home project budget tends to surprise your clients most — and how do you help them prepare for it?”

Here’s what they had to say:

Delivery, Disposal & Site Costs

“Homeowners know all about the things they see at the end of the day — the walls painted, the doors hung, the floors finished. But they always forget the things they don’t see. The garbage disposal, the bins, the clearing, the soil conditions, the temporary power lines… all the stuff that has to happen before framing even begins.” 

— Troy, Machine Operator, Howe Sound Excavating

It’s not just materials and labour. Homeowners often forget about the logistics — things like delivery fees, bin rentals, dumping charges, and site setup like temporary power and even a porta-potty for the trades. These line items add up fast and can push a budget 5–10% over without warning.

Design Revisions & Permit Delays

“When homeowners change their mind mid-design, it’s rarely just a small tweak. What seems like a simple change in one area often creates a ripple effect — shifting layouts, affecting structural elements, and requiring adjustments everywhere else.

And if that change happens mid-construction, it’s not just a design issue anymore — it becomes a permitting one. You’ll need updated ‘as-built’ drawings, which means construction often has to pause until the new documents are submitted and approved. That can include both architectural and structural revisions.”

— Chelsey, Architectural Designer, Homeowner HQ

Architectural revisions, updated drawings, or permit back-and-forths can lead to delays — and delays often mean more hours, more invoices, and more frustration. This is especially common when a homeowner changes their mind mid-project or local regulations shift without notice.

Cabinetry, Finishes & the Pinterest Effect

“Homeowners are often surprised by just how much a home project can cost. One of the biggest eye-openers is the cost of materials. When I advise clients to allocate around 40% of their [kitchen and bathroom] budget specifically for cabinetry, it usually comes as a shock. 

In addition to materials, skilled labor is another major factor. True craftsmen invest heavily not only in their tools but also in building and maintaining a reliable, skilled crew. Many homeowners dream of creating a one-of-a-kind space, but they’re often surprised to learn that customization comes with a higher price tag. The more tailored the design, the more time, effort, and specialized skill it requires — all of which increase the overall cost.”

— Vandana, Luxury Kitchen & Bath Designer, Living Spaces

That beautiful Pinterest board? It adds up. Homeowners are often surprised when the cost of tiles, lighting, cabinetry and hardware, or plumbing fixtures starts to stack up. Even choosing a slightly more expensive faucet style across multiple bathrooms can throw off a tight budget.

Quality Materials vs. “Builder Grade”

“One of the biggest surprises for homeowners is realizing how basic the base price really is. So talk with your contractor about the level of finishes before your budget is created. The moment you want to upgrade—better floors, custom cabinets, higher-efficiency insulation—the numbers start climbing fast.”

— Jamie, General Contractor, CMC Homes

A common surprise: realizing the base price of your home or project includes very basic finishes — and upgrading costs significantly more. Going from vinyl plank to hardwood, standard to custom cabinetry, or adding insulation beyond code can make a big difference in both comfort and cost.

Trade Minimums & Small Job Charges

“Homeowners are always surprised that a 30-minute job can still cost a few hundred bucks. Most trades have minimum charges, even for small things — it’s not about how long the job takes, it’s also about getting them there, setting up, and packing up.”

— Wayne, Carpenter, Potts Construction

Electricians, plumbers, and HVAC technicians usually have minimum charges, even for small tasks. That means if you only need one outlet moved or a quick valve check, you’re still paying a set rate. Those little line items can sneak up on homeowners who assume “small job” equals “small cost.”

Change Orders & Mid-Project Upgrades

“It’s the little upgrades that get you — a nicer countertop, an extra skylight. None of them seem like a big deal at the time, but they add up fast. Before you know it, the budget’s stretched way further than you planned.”

— Will, General Contractor, McKeen Homes

Once the project starts, the temptation to add or upgrade things is real. A slightly nicer countertop. An extra skylight. A built-in instead of open shelving. These decisions feel small in the moment, but they build on each other — and on the budget.

The Hidden Layers of Landscaping

“Homeowners always think landscaping is just plants and grass — but it’s the prep work and everything underneath, too. Drainage, soil prep, grading, irrigation, electrical, retaining walls... all before you bring in the sod or plant a tree.”

— Jenn, Landscaper, Paeonia Gardens

It’s not just patios and flower beds. Landscaping often involves excavation, hardscaping, lighting, irrigation, hauling, and disposal — all of which come with material and labour costs. Even small upgrades like switching from gravel to pavers or adding one more feature can shift the budget significantly, especially at the end of a project when funds are tight.

Final Thought from the Pros

Across the board, the biggest cost surprise for most homeowners isn’t just a single item — it’s how quickly the small stuff adds up. That’s why the professionals we spoke to recommend starting with a realistic budget, padding it with a 10–20% contingency, and keeping communication open throughout.

What This Means for You as a Homeowner

Surprises are inevitable — but being informed means you’re better prepared to handle them.

Here are a few tips to avoid budget blowouts:

• Ask detailed questions during the quoting stage (especially about what’s not included).

• Build a contingency fund of at least 10–20%.

• Talk to your team early about your priorities and what’s most important to you.

• Expect the unexpected — like permit fees, site prep, or scope creep.

At the end of the day, budgeting isn’t just about money — it’s about clarity, communication, and knowing where your hard-earned dollars are going.

Want to Hear More from These Pros?

The professionals featured here are all part of the Homeowner HQ Directory, a curated network of trusted builders, designers, and contractors across North America.

If you're looking to hire someone (or just learn from the best), check out the Directory here.