Latest NewsTen Tips to Renovating WiselySunday, 23 April 2017

Renovating can be a mine-field and costs can vary widely so chose carefully between using a builder or an architect to run the show.

1. Look closely at council’s guidelines to see what you are allowed to do. For example, you may be able to add an upper bedroom in a terrace if you don’t interfere with the roof form,

2. Source building materials at auction houses or online.

3. Shop around. If a product seems excessively expensive, you may be able to find a more affordable alternative made with similar materials.

Don’t underestimate the site’s potential for inspiration. For instance, if you have a magnificent tree, keep it and make it a focus.

5. Don’t be afraid to blend old with new. The older parts of a building can add character.

6. A prefabricated structure can save on building cost.

7. If building a getaway, costs will escalate if it’s in a fire zone.

8. When buying, consider access for builders.

9. Beware steep sites as excavation costs are exorbitant.

10. To contain the budget, keep joinery simple.

 

Or you could just use a builder instead of an architect.....

An architect can help you add value, particularly if there is a fabulous view to capitalise on. But not everyone is going to be able to use one.

Because architects charge from 10 to 15 per cent of a project’s overall cost, the budget may be just too tight.

If owners have a clear idea of what they want and it is a simple job, they could work directly with a builder. The best plan is to work with one you already know and respect.

According to Brian Seidler, Executive Director of the Master Builders Association, it is hard to give a generic estimate of a renovation cost. He says a builder would need to inspect the property to give an accurate qoute.

"But if the question is can you do a reasonably modest renovation for under $50,000?" he says. "The answer is, probably yes."

His main proviso is that owners make affordable choices. "In general it is the finishes that dictate the cost. So if you source a tile from local markets, it might be one fifth the price of Italian marble for instance."

He estimates a modest renovation of a 50 square metre one bedroom unit: reworking the bathroom with affordable tiles and fittings would cost from $10,000 to $13,500; renovating the kitchen with new flooring, Laminex benchtop and cupboards and mid-range appliances $18,500 to $25,000; adding built-ins around $8,000 and new carpet $5000.

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