Totally get where you're coming from with Google Sheets—custom formulas can be a lifesaver once you get past the initial headache. I tried Mint and YNAB, but honestly, they felt too rigid for tracking my construction loan payments (especially with all the random draws and contractor invoices). Ended up doing something similar to you, tweaking a spreadsheet template I found online. Took a weekend of coffee-fueled frustration, but now it's smooth sailing...mostly.
"Took a weekend of coffee-fueled frustration, but now it's smooth sailing...mostly."
Haha, sounds familiar—I spent an entire Saturday wrestling with my spreadsheet, convinced I'd broken it at least three times. Curious though, how are you handling unexpected contractor delays or changes mid-project? That's been my latest headache...
"Curious though, how are you handling unexpected contractor delays or changes mid-project? That's been my latest headache..."
Yeah, contractor delays are a constant battle. I've learned to build in buffer time upfront—it's saved me more than once. Also, regular check-ins help catch issues early before they snowball. Still, sometimes you just have to roll with the punches and adjust your spreadsheet yet again...the joys of development.
Totally agree on building in buffer time—it's a lifesaver. Another thing that's helped me is having a clear communication plan upfront with contractors. I set expectations early about how and when delays or changes need to be communicated, so at least I'm not blindsided when something pops up. Doesn't eliminate the headaches completely, but it makes them a bit more manageable.
Also, I've found that keeping detailed notes on each delay or change helps when dealing with lenders. If you can clearly document why something's behind schedule, they're usually more understanding about adjusting draw schedules or payments. It's tedious, sure, but beats scrambling later on when you're trying to explain why your project timeline shifted again.
Still, no matter how organized you are, sometimes you just have to accept that construction is messy and unpredictable...part of the territory, I guess.
Good points about documentation—it's definitely tedious but worth it. Curious though, have you found lenders to be flexible enough when delays are related to sustainability upgrades or green materials? I've noticed some lenders aren't always familiar with eco-friendly construction timelines, so explaining why you're waiting on that reclaimed wood flooring shipment can get...interesting. Would love to hear if anyone else has navigated that particular headache.
