Reno planning like a pro
Planning to Perfection
We’ve all heard the key to a successful renovation is in the planning; a project that’s completed both on time and most importantly within budget is key to enjoying your newly renovated kitchen, bathroom or outdoor area. The Auckland Home Show is your best option for beginning your renovation conversation; we have all the experts on hand and ready to answer any and every renovation query you could have.
What is your reality?
Remember this is not a TV show. This renovation project is funded entirely from your back pocket. You don’t want to be spending more than the resale value of your property. So first up be realistic about what you’ll be spending your money on! It can be far too easy to overcapitalise. A general rule of thumb is to spend no more than 25% of the value of your house on major renovation work.
Talk to the experts
Talk to architects, master builders or quantity surveyors to find out the average building cost per square metre in your area. Also, consider calling in a property expert like an agent or valuer to discuss your plans, they’ll help you to determine what your project’s cost versus potential gain in sale price will be – and if they don’t add up – don’t do it. Luckily the Auckland Home Show has all the experts under the one roof ready to answer your queries!
Know your council
Staying onside with your local council by using them as an advisory is far better than crossing your fingers for a retrospective consent. If you’re planning any external renovations i.e. changes to the building’s footprint or structure; new decks and plumbing relocations – remember these will require building consent from your local council. By speaking with your local friendly council you’ll find out pretty quickly what you can and can’t do, and what consents will cost.
Timing is everything
What you’re hoping to renovate can be dependent on what time of year is most suitable. Summer is obviously ideal for that large outdoor upgrade while interiors are often done in the middle of the year – when you won’t lose your painter on a nice day to an exterior job. Depending on how intensive the work is, kitchens can take up to eight weeks on site (not including design development or ordering of materials). Bathrooms can be faster at around three weeks; but as the point below will state its important to build a contingency within your planned timeframe for those unexpected aspects that may arise once reno is underway.
Clever contingency
Remember, once your renovation gets rolling, excitement may quickly dissolve into despair if you encounter unexpected issues (like rotten beams or a busted pipe) and not have any space in your budget to rectify it. Keeping track of your costs and budget from the beginning (yes even down to the nails). Keeping track will help to ensure you’re not caught off guard when the invoices start to come in.
If you’re thinking of renovating or building this year, then visit the Auckland Home Show. 5 – 9 September 2018 at ASB Showgrounds, Greenlane. Get free expert advice from more than 500 leading industry experts and suppliers. See www.aucklandhomeshow.co.nz for more info and to secure your tickets now!