I discovered the hard way that a “realistic” budget is not simply a number; it is also a survival kit.
I first total every glittering fantasy in my mind, then I multiply it by 1.5. Indeed. That is meant for the “surprise” mold behind the drywall (hey there, unwelcome visitor). I also make it a pastime to browse the clearance rack at my neighborhood hardware store.
Then I am mercilessly honest with myself: what has to happen against what I just saw on Pinterest? For that one splurge—maybe the odd faucet—I set aside a small “fun money” bucket. The rest is used for mundane tasks such as waterproofing.