Homeowners in Rochester are encouraged to rethink their approach to home repairs, as many wait for the elusive ideal of a “finished” home before taking action. According to lifestyle contributor Jeanette Caban, the aspiration for perfection often holds individuals back from enjoying their spaces and hosting gatherings.
As a three-time homeowner and certified master gardener, Caban understands the struggle of wanting a home to feel complete. Many residents express hesitation when invited to showcase their spaces, citing the need for improvements or the right timing. This mindset reflects a broader trend in the home-design community, where the pressure to present a perfect space can lead to inaction.
Perfectionism and Its Costs
The desire to achieve a flawless home is fueled by cultural standards that highlight polished before-and-after transformations. Social media platforms often amplify this pressure, causing homeowners to feel their lived realities do not measure up. Consequently, many remain in a state of waiting, believing they will only host friends or share their homes once they complete that last project.
Yet, there are practical barriers that contribute to this delay. Local contractors and real estate professionals point out that factors such as budget constraints and the difficulty of finding available tradespeople significantly impact homeowners’ ability to move forward. For instance, some residents are tied to a 3% mortgage and find refinancing unfeasible. Others feel overwhelmed by their limited time and resources.
Caban notes that while these challenges are valid, holding out for perfect conditions can lead to indefinite postponement. She emphasizes that making progress in home improvement does not always require a general contractor or extensive financial investment. Sometimes, it simply involves reimagining what constitutes progress.
Small Steps, Big Changes
Transformative changes can stem from simple actions. Homeowners can consider painting a room for a fresh feel, rearranging furniture for better flow, or updating outdated hardware. Even larger projects can be approached in stages, allowing individuals to tackle them gradually. Whether it’s a DIY effort, enlisting help from friends, or hiring out specific tasks, progress can be made without overwhelming oneself.
As winter approaches, many homeowners feel pressured to have their spaces ready for holiday gatherings. Caban reminds us that a welcoming home doesn’t need to be immaculate. A pot of soup on the stove or a warm candle lit can create an inviting atmosphere, even if other areas remain works in progress.
The conversations Caban has had with homeowners reveal a common truth: ideal conditions and perfect timelines are often misleading. A home is defined not by its completion but by the lives being lived within it.
If you find yourself waiting for everything to feel “just right” before inviting friends over or making changes, consider this an invitation to act. Start embracing your home as it is and allow it to evolve organically over time.
For those interested in sharing their unique living spaces, Caban invites nominations for future features at [email protected] with “Home Style” in the subject line.
