Scottish homeowners warned poor renovation decisions are costing thousands as demand for expert advice surges

More homeowners in Scotland are choosing to extend, retrofit or self-build instead of moving house, but industry experts say early mistakes are leading to significant overspending and inefficient homes.

The Scottish Homebuilding & Renovating Show, returning to the SEC Glasgow on 9 and 10 May 2026, will host more than 20 live seminars aimed at helping people make the right decisions before work begins. The show provides visitors with a unique opportunity to swap months of online research for two days of face-to-face expert consultations, free seminars and masterclasses, and meet over 140 exhibitors showcasing the latest innovations. Topics covered include kitchens, bathrooms, home renovations, green energy, self-build, extensions, conversions, planning permission, interior design, renewable technologies, and project finance

Michael Holmes, home improvement expert and seminar speaker at the show, said:

“Many people commit to layouts, heating systems or contractors too early and only discover the consequences later when costs rise or comfort is poor. Good decisions at the start can save tens of thousands of pounds and dramatically improve how a home performs.”

Visitors to the show will learn how to:
• Save up to 30 percent on a bespoke home through self-build planning
• Improve their chances of gaining planning permission
• Cut long term heating costs through design and retrofit choices

Responding to changing housing choices in Scotland

With moving costs, borrowing rates and limited housing supply continuing to affect homeowners, organisers say more people are adapting existing homes rather than relocating.

Sessions will cover obtaining planning approval, managing builders, designing extensions properly and understanding the true cost of construction before committing to a project.

Architect Allan Corfield will demonstrate how space can be created without extending, while Planning Aid for Scotland will explain how to navigate the planning system and avoid rejected applications.

Heating costs driving renovation decisions

Energy performance is also a major focus, particularly in Scotland’s older housing stock.

Heating specialist David Hilton will explain how period homes can be upgraded without damaging character and how technologies such as heat pumps and ventilation systems can improve comfort while reducing bills.

Free professional advice

Visitors can book one to one consultations with architects, planners and finance specialists to discuss their own projects before progressing.

The show takes place at the SEC Glasgow on 9 and 10 May 2026. Opening hours Saturday 10am to 5pm and Sunday 10am to 4.30pm.