Whether you’re planning a major or minor renovation, the devil is in the detail. Many people rush the planning stage, and discover when the renovation is finished, they wished they’d done something different.

It’s imperative to take time to plan a renovation; that way, you’ll stay on schedule, keep within your budget and have a renovation that is fit for the purpose.

So, what do you need to think about to ensure you don’t over capitalise, but at the same time, you maximise on the space?

To help you with the planning process, here are some points to consider.

1. Why are you making the renovation?

Is it for a lifestyle choice, or to improve the value of property? In many cases, a major renovation is a mixture of both.

If your renovation is a lifestyle choice, think about how you live, and how the renovation will continue to service your needs in a few years’ time.

When you’re looking at a renovation to increase the value of your property, speak to an expert who can advise on what will add profit. Is it better to extend the kitchen or convert the loft to another bedroom?

2. Know your budget

Until plans are finalised, you won’t be able to ask for quotes, but it doesn’t hurt to do a bit of research into approximate costs so you know how much you potentially maybe facing, and what finance you may need.

Once you have an approximate cost for a similar renovation, add a few more dollars to be on the safe side.

3. What’s important in a renovation?

Key factors in any renovation are light and storage. Light will make the space look bigger, and creative and innovative storage will often add value.

Quality materials not only look good, but will save you money in the long run. If the renovation allows, it may also be worth seeing if you can incorporate energy saving features too.

4. Do your research

As soon as you start talking about a renovation, everyone will have an idea!

Really spend time thinking about the design and how the additional space will be used; whether its for a lifestyle or a renovation for profit, it should enhance the property.

Look online or in magazines for design ideas; think about what you like and what you don’t like about the space and design, and consider the pros and cons.

A great way to see if your ideas will work in your space is to use an online planner; many planners will factor things you may not have thought of, allowing for the thickness of walls.

5. Surround yourself by experts

Good architects and builders will have great ideas, and will talk you through options and what to consider, particularly when it comes to materials and costs, and what will add value.

Personal recommendations for professionals are great, but it’s always worth checking the credentials of anyone you are going to employ.

When asking for quotes, make sure it has a breakdown of all the costs, and any additional costs you may have to pay for, such as applying for planning.

Also ask if the builder is going to project-manage the works, if not, have you time to do it yourself or will you need to hire a separate project manager.

6. Keep it legal

While your plans may look fantastic to you, some governing bodies may not be so sure. You will need to check with your local council to ensure your renovation meets regulations and guidelines, and if you live in a unit or apartment, you’ll also need to liaise with your strata manager or body corporate to see if your plans will be approved.

You will also need building permits to ensure your home renovation meets basic requirements for health, safety and structural soundness as stipulated by the Building Code of Australia.

7. Be sure about your decision

Once you’ve talked through options and plans have been drawn up, be final about your decisions; changes to designs and materials half way through can blow your budget and your renovation schedule.

If you’re thinking of renovating and selling in the future, we’re full of ideas; having been in the business for 40 plus years, we’ve helped thousands of people add value to their properties and are constantly achieving great results for our clients.

Call in and see us in the Cardiff office or give us a call on 02 4954 8833. Or send us an email to: mail@apnewcastle.com.au.

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