5 tips for renovating your home on a tight budget

It’s prime time television, channel 9’s The Block is in full swing and you look around the house with Scotty’s voice in your head telling you it’s time to pick up those tools and renovate. You sit down with pen and paper in hand ready to write down each idea in mind to spice up the home.

One problem, there are no cameras, no producers and no handy $20,000 coming in each week to have a helping hand. You think to yourself – “How can I possibly make this dream become a reality?” Well, here at Ouwens Casserly we heard you and are here to give you our 5 tips for renovating on a budget.

 

 

5 tips for renovating your home on a tight budget

Nathan met with Nest Built Project Manager, Tom Brown, to discuss 5 Tips for budget renovations.

 

01. PREPARE, PLAN & PRIORITISE

The 3 P’s for budget renovating success. Before you pick up those tools and paintbrushes, it is vital to have a clear vision and timeline in mind to ensure every step of the way is carefully researched, planned and prioritised to ensure a cost-effective project.

Compromise is key when sticking to a budget and always be on the lookout for savings, whether this means rolling up those sleeves when necessary or snatching up those material bargains along the way. Be clear on your vision and flexible in your decisions.

TIP 2. EXTENT THE HOUSE NOT THE WALLET

Needing a little extra space for those summertime BBQs with family and friends? Or wanting to expand to fulfil that back open plan living dream? Whatever you desire, there is no need to replace, just refit. Through the installation of medium-sized extension (around 100 square metres), you can break the constraints of a previously enclosed plan without breaking the wallet.

TIP 3. RE-INNOVATE FROM THE FLOOR UP

Don’t be afraid to take a stand and law down the ‘floor’. Reinventing your look from the base up can give your home a fresh, new feel that excites you every time you walk through the door. Make sure to weigh up the pro’s and con’s of doing this project DIY, as rolling up your sleeves can save you a lot of money or be a major headache.

Do your research and make sure your flooring vision is clear before you start the process and even consult a local tradie to compare cost-effective strategies to ensure materials and instalment methods are what’s best for you.

TIP 4. A THRONE FIT FOR A KING

It’s all in the detail. Small replacements of fittings, such as a change in toilets can reinvent your bathroom from ordinary to extraordinary. Subtle changes like the addition of a smart toilet, new taps or lighting fixtures, can not only be cost-effective but add value to your home, making each visit fit for a royal.

TIP 5. THE RIGHT TRADIE FOR THE JOB

Finding the right tradie for the job is essential when planning your renovation project. Research and connect with local tradies and contractors to compare pricing, qualifications and reputation within the community. Don’t be afraid to ask questions to make sure their work lines up with the vision and budget you have in mind.

 

LET THE RENOVATIONS BEGIN…

 

It doesn’t have to cost hundreds of thousands of dollars to give your home the revamp you dream of. Beginning a renovation project can be daunting but with the proper planning and vision, you can achieve anything within budget. Don’t be afraid to roll up your sleeves and get involved but look around for the right tradies/contractors that will help you achieve your dreams. Contacting companies like Nest Build, who specialise in renovation/building services will make your process excitingly seamless.

Good luck and get budget building!

If you are considering a renovation and would like some expert advice, get in touch with Tom on 0400 078 657 or visit the Nest Built website. 

 

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Alex Ouwens and Nathan Casserly have a genuine passion for real estate and love to help people achieve their goals and dreams through property. Find out more about OC  here.

Interested in a career at Ouwens Casserly Real Estate? Check out our opportunities here.