KP

I'm Katlyn Polino

Certified Home Inspector & Renovation Consultant

Katlyn Polino writes from the trenches of real home renovation experience. Over the past decade, she's personally managed four major home renovations, two kitchen remodels, and countless repair projects while building expertise as a certified home inspector and renovation consultant.

6
Articles
1
Years

About Katlyn Polino

Katlyn Polino writes from the trenches of real home renovation experience. Over the past decade, she's personally managed four major home renovations, two kitchen remodels, and countless repair projects while building expertise as a certified home inspector and renovation consultant.

What sets Katlyn apart isn't just professional knowledge, but hard-earned wisdom from living through contractor delays, budget overruns, and supply chain nightmares. She understands the frustration of watching material costs spike mid-project and the relief of finding a contractor who actually shows up on time.

Katlyn's approach combines homeowner empathy with market-savvy expertise. She tracks current economic factors affecting renovation costs, from tariffs on building materials to contractor availability shortages. Her articles prepare readers for real-world challenges while providing actionable strategies to navigate today's complex renovation landscape.

Having renovated homes in three different states, Katlyn understands regional cost variations and local building code quirks. She maintains active relationships with contractors, suppliers, and fellow homeowners to stay current on market conditions affecting project timelines and budgets.

Katlyn's mission is simple: help homeowners make smart renovation decisions based on current realities, not outdated assumptions.

Areas of Expertise

  • Budget-Conscious Renovations
  • Contractor Management
  • Market Challenge Navigation
  • Home Inspection & Assessment
  • Regional Building Codes
  • Supply Chain Management
  • Project Risk Mitigation
  • Cost Escalation Planning

2026

Featured image for What Bathroom Remodels Actually Cost in 2026

What Bathroom Remodels Actually Cost in 2026

Bathroom remodels in 2026 encounter elevated costs due to tariffs, labor shortages, and fluctuating material prices. This tiered budget guide provides clear outlines for basic refreshes, mid-range updates, and luxury overhauls, including detailed expenses, timelines, and return on investment. Discover optimal DIY opportunities, professional hiring decisions, and planning tactics that deliver savings alongside enhanced comfort, efficiency, and enduring value.

February 26, 2026
5 min read
Featured image for Zero-Threshold Showers: Smart Aging in Place for 2026

Zero-Threshold Showers: Smart Aging in Place for 2026

Zero-threshold showers transform accessible home design in 2026 by prioritizing safety, elegance, and durability. Amid escalating material prices and a focus on lifelong living, these curbless installations minimize fall risks, elevate property attractiveness, and endure for generations. Delve into precise expenses, ideal project timing, and informed selections for this pivotal enhancement.

February 25, 2026
5 min read
Featured image for Spring Roof Checks: When Drones Help and When You Need a Pro

Spring Roof Checks: When Drones Help and When You Need a Pro

With rising roofing costs, spring inspections are crucial for homeowners. Evaluate the advantages and limitations of drone-based DIY assessments against professional evaluations to identify issues promptly, reduce expenses, and prolong roof durability. Discover cost breakdowns, optimal timing, safety measures, and a balanced hybrid method for enhanced protection and value.

February 25, 2026
5 min read
Featured image for Greywater Systems Cut Bills and Raise Resale Value

Greywater Systems Cut Bills and Raise Resale Value

As droughts worsen and water costs climb, greywater systems evolve from optional eco-features to essential investments. Installation typically ranges from $4,000 to $12,000, with potential savings of 30 to 40 percent on water usage, elevating property value, resilience, and return on investment amid tightening 2026 drought restrictions.

February 24, 2026
5 min read
Featured image for FEMA's New Flood Vent Rules Save Foundations in 2026

FEMA's New Flood Vent Rules Save Foundations in 2026

FEMA's 2026 building code revisions mandate certified flood vents for properties in flood-prone areas. These systems equalize water pressure to avert foundation damage, reduce insurance premiums, and ensure regulatory adherence. Discover practical guidance on materials, installation timing, maintenance, and long-term benefits to secure your home investment.

February 24, 2026
5 min read