(A big “thank you” to markatosdesign.com for sponsoring this post!)

When you commit to the process of refreshing your home, you might soon experience sticker shock. Sometimes the best way to avoid spending too much might just involve investing in a design professional. (If you have a California home check out Santa Barbara interior designer Christine Markato’s website—her portfolio pictures are absolutely inspiring.)

While DIY projects can be great in some cases, a designer’s eye can make a huge difference in a major remodeling project (like the full home remodel we had completed in 2015/2016) and help you save money in three key areas.

Economical Space Planning

It may not be necessary to tear down walls or add onto your home—if you can envision ways to use the space you already have more efficiently. In some cases a room may be able to pull double duty. Such as a home office that converts to a guest room by way of a fold-down bed. Or a living room featuring a craft corner with the right furniture to divide the space.

Your kitchen may also have the potential to accommodate your storage demands. Instead of a costly construction project, your money may go farther when you invest in storage systems that are both functional and attractive.

Keep Plumbing Where It Is

It can be expensive to rearrange the locations of your sinks, showers and toilets. It could be that what your dated bathroom needs is a facelift. Swap out the fixtures for the ultimate refresh or consider new flooring. Bathrooms are great places to earn a significant return on investment, so upgrades you make are valuable. However, leaving the plumbing where it is will save you a lot of money.

Use Designer Contacts

Working with a designer opens the door to many artistic and architectural sources of inspiration. An expert on interiors knows where to find the best deals and the best quality products—and they often have access to price cuts with exclusive suppliers. In a whole-home redesign, you may find yourself buying a lot of new furniture. This process can be overwhelming and expensive, but collaboration with the right professionals can help ease this stress and potentially be kind to your budget.