The 3 most common renovation rows — and why choosing a new build could solve them

Valentine’s Day. A time for romance, chocolates, and… home renovations? It may not be the first thing that springs to mind, but for couples dreaming of a shared future, a new home can be the ultimate expression of love and commitment.
However, the thought of renovating together fills many couples with more dread than delight — and with 46%* of couples not being able to agree on decorating colours, it’s not hard to see why.
That’s why housebuilder, Barratt David Wilson Homes South Wales, has shared why buying a new build could be the ultimate solution to the three most common renovation disagreements…
- Disagreements over painting and decorating
It’s a constant balancing act, trying to make sure that both of your styles are reflected in your new home — and although some partners are happy to sit back and let their significant other take the lead, others will want to have their say.
30.4% of couples resolved this issue by talking about their preferences and coming to a compromise, but the housebuilder argues that buying a new build home could help to avoid the issue altogether. Having a clean blank slate home to start from can make decorating decisions less stressful — with no indecisive weeks staring at the previous owner’s questionable colour scheme.
- Arguments over fitting new floors and kitchens
Nearly a quarter (23.9%) of couples fall out over decisions about new floor and kitchen fittings — and understandably so, with so many options to choose from and hefty price tags to consider.
With a new build home, much of this stress is eliminated. Many of these key design elements are already in place — thoughtfully curated by professional interior designers to create a stylish, functional living space. This means you can skip the stress of endless showroom visits and enjoy a beautifully finished home from day one.
Plus, some Barratt David Wilson Homes even come with upgraded kitchens and flooring included in the cost.
- The woes of renovation timelines and price-tags
Buying your first home is expensive so diving straight into renovations can be costly and timely — often pushing back move in dates. Couples reported that 26.8% bickered over the cost of the renovation, with a further 26.2% disagreeing because things were taking too long.
When you buy a new build, you have the security of knowing the fixed price up front and will receive regular updates on your timeline and move in date. This will naturally eliminate stress and let you plan for more exciting parts of your move.
Richard Lawson, Director of Sales at Barratt David Wilson South Wales, said: “We’re committed to giving couples the best buying experience possible, whether it’s their first home or their forever home.
“Often, we see couples who have been through the renovation mill, and they tell us how stressful it was. With a new build, you’re not just buying a house; you’re buying peace of mind. You’re buying a fresh start, a blank canvas for your future together. And that, we think, is a pretty wonderful Valentine’s gift.”