Renovation, also known as remodeling, is the process of improving a home that is outdated or damaged. On the whole, it should be a positive experience as it’s improving the value and appearance of your biggest asset. Unfortunately, more often than not, a renovation doesn’t always go as smoothly as one would hope.
Not only is it dirty, noisy and often expensive, bad weather and unreliable tradespeople can also cause havoc on the building site.
But never fear. By doing some thorough research and planning before the first work tool is picked up you’ll be able to minimise any delays and unnecessary expenses. And best of all, you’ll be able to turn a potentially stressful experience into a valuable, long-term investment.
There are plenty of renovation ideas out there to suit your every need. However, it’s worth considering whether or not your home is worth the money spent on a renovation. It may be just as wise to knock it down and rebuild from scratch, especially if you have dangerous materials throughout like asbestos. This would be a pretty serious decision to make so we suggest you always get a second opinion from experts before starting any work.
Below are some pretty nifty renovation tips to help you through the process.
Renovation Tips to Get You Started
1. STICK TO THE RULES
Check the building regulations of your local government area before you begin renovating. Some councils have certain regulations in place that are designed to:
- Maximise sustainability.
- Reduce the risk of flood damage and bushfire.
- Maintain the character of certain suburbs or localities.
Prior research will make the full cost evident before the renovation begins.
2. BUDGET LIKE A HAWK
Many things can go wrong when renovating and it could mess up even the most finely tuned timetable. Assume that if something is to go wrong, it usually will.
Make contingency plans for wet weather, unavailability of contractors, and if a job takes longer than expected.
And always, always keep some money aside for unexpected surprises. It’s best to not skimp on quality or cut corners.
3. THINK STRATEGICALLY
Keep the next owner in mind with your renovation. Add versatile features and play it safe with neutral colours. You may love red walls but a potential buyer might not. Instead try accessorizing with other items such as cushions, curtains, rugs and furnishings.
4. GET A VALUATION
Before you start get a valuation from your local real estate agent. Given that renovation is a risky business it’s a good idea to get a handle on what your home is worth prior to starting. Why pay big bucks renovating if you won’t make the money back?
Worse still, if the real estate market is flat you are better holding off until the timing is right.
5. DON’T LEAVE IT TOO LATE, PLAN AHEAD
If you need to get DA’s in to the council do it as soon as possible. The later you leave it, the longer the approval process can take. And if you need to revise your building plans you’ll end up having to get your architect to redo them if they don’t get passed the first time.
Stick to your original renovation ideas and try not to keep altering plans as this also adds extra costs to your budget.
6. HAGGLE & GET THE BEST PRICES
Shop around for fittings both in person and online. You’ll be surprised at what bargains you can pick up by doing your research. Paying in cash is a great way to get further discounts too.
Also some retailers are keen to get rid of end-of-line products or display models so ask them if they have any available for you to see. And don’t be afraid to haggle!
7. SEEK ADVICE FROM OTHERS
Word of mouth is one of the best ways to find out specific information or the right person for a job. So start chatting with others who have recently renovated and can help you with people they recommend and what features are worth including and which ones aren’t.
If at all possible, avoid choosing the cheapest quote or the earliest available builders, as this could be a red flag for bad workmanship and cutting corners.
8. BE CAREFUL WHERE YOU CUT COSTS
Under no circumstances should you ever try doing highly skilled jobs like electrical work or plumbing yourself. It’s not only illegal, but also a false economy to risk your home or your life trying to save a few dollars.
Cut down on costs by finding small, fiddly and time-consuming jobs that you can do yourself, such as dismantling kitchen cabinets, removing carpet or scrapping back paint layers.
9. EXERCISE YOUR GREEN THUMB
If you’re renovating for profit make sure you include your garden too. People love a tidy garden with lots of healthy plants and space to enjoy outdoor living.
Even if gardening isn’t your thing, you can still create an easy to maintain backyard with slow-growing lawn and paved areas. There’s always the option of hiring a landscape gardening company to do the planning and design work for you.
But if you fancy yourself as a bit of a green thumb then choose plants you can propagate yourself to save costs and create a uniform look.
10. KEEPING UP WITH THE JONESES
It’s worthwhile going for a walk around your neighbourhood to see what others have done to their properties. Not only will you get some fabulous ideas, you’ll also see what works and what doesn’t.
Try renovating to suit the size and location of the property, as this will boost its resale value. And be mindful of the type of home you have and use that to guide your renovation.
Why Opt For a Renovation?
There are many reasons why a renovation could be the right choice for you.
- You get to improve the functionality and comfort of your home.
- It’s not a restrictive process, if you want it can be just cosmetic!
- You can refit your home with energy efficient fixtures that will save on your energy bills.
- You can boost the property value quite a bit.
- You don’t have to spend tons of money on renovations to get a totally new look.
As you can see, renovations are a great way to beautify your home and add value to it at the same time. And you don’t have to spend a lot of money to get started. So what are you waiting for? There’s no time like the present to get planning for your next renovation.
Enjoy your renovation.
All the best,
James Mason
CHECK OUT THIS BLOG POST FOR MORE: 7 Great Renovating for Profit Tips for Success
