Buying things ahead of time. Before Christmas, we met with Rebecca from the design and project management firm maison d’etre, a referral from my chiropractor’s receptionist (the power of networking!). Her suggestion was that we get out there and choose ‘“ perhaps even buy ‘“ the things we need for the big event: tiles, cabinets, countertops, appliances, faucets, hardware, and lights, to name a few (we already have the toilet ‘“ it’s still sitting in the closet, along with a new vanity and bathroom sink). That way, when the contractors come, they can rip out all the old stuff, and put in the new stuff.

Take advantage of sales! During the month of December, we visited Sears about five times: opening and closing fridge doors, fiddling with stovetops, ogling dishwashers. During one visit, we were accosted by no less than five salespeople intent on making a big sale! Then, one day after Boxing Day (Canada’s equivalent of Black Friday), we took one of those salespeople up on their offer!

Armed with plans made from our Consumer Report research, and basking in the glow of Sale banners throughout the store, we took the plunge and purchased a dishwasher ($200 off), fridge ($130 off), and stove ($300 off). All of them Energy Star = additional long-term savings. Because we bought before the end of the year, the provincial government waived the PST (and with BC’s tax rate at 7%, we saved almost $50). And, we have paid for it all already.

We have been saving up for nearly a year in order to make this renovation a reality, so there is no need to set up a monthly payment plan. No debt having over our head! Yes, we put it on my American Express card (earn some Airmiles!), but that balance will be paid off in full in February. In the meantime, that money is earning a bit of extra interest in a renovation-specific savings account until it’s needed.

Since my last post, our renovation plans have taken a few twists and turns, but we still have our eye on the prize! And with nearly a year’s worth of planning and saving behind us, our renovation plans are starting out on the right foot in 2009!

Photo credit: stock.xchng.