As 2024 draws to a close, most people are already thinking ahead to the New Year, and for many local homeowners, that will include gearing up for some type of home renovation.
Looking on Pinterest and Instagram are wonderful ways to gather inspiration, however, the real research takes a lot more work. The first step should be assessing what needs to be done to ensure your home is safe, structurally sound and functions well for your family. Consulting with experts on things such as council permits, load-bearing walls, flood damage or hidden asbestos is essential to do early on to make your renovation a success.
“Everything is in the planning,” said Steele Ryan of Rhino Flooring. “Define your scope of work, choose your trades and suppliers and allow enough time in between them all as there are often unexpected delays.”
Budgeting and Choosing the Right Professionals
Answering the two big renovation questions – ‘How much will it cost?’ and ‘How long will it take?’ can be tricky, but bringing a builder into the conversation early in the design stage is key to saving a lot of time and money down the road. Experienced tradespeople can help paint a clear picture of what is both necessary and possible, and within your budget and desired timeline.
When obtaining quotes, be very clear about how much you have to spend and be sure to keep some money aside for any unexpected surprises or upgrades you may decide to add along the way. Also, keep in mind that opting to move forward with the cheapest quotes for materials and labour isn’t always going to mean better value for your money.
“When considering recommendations from professionals, take the time to research companies thoroughly and check reviews to ensure their credibility,” said JK Electrical’s Joel Leslie. “The cheapest or fastest options aren’t always the best. By doing your due diligence, you’ll make more informed decisions that will serve you well in the long run.”
Most importantly, regardless of the size of your renovation, it’s important to confirm the qualifications and licenses of everyone working in your home.
“I wouldn’t advise homeowners to do the work themselves,” said Mick Giammichele of Giammichele Plasterers. “Look for a registered builder, or for smaller jobs, hire a licensed tradesman.”
By spending the time on research upfront, you can achieve the best outcome for your renovation and your family, and create a space to be proud of.
Happy planning!
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