Eight mistakes to avoid when renovating

If it's time to spruce up your home, you might consider renovating.

But, first things first, any renovations to your property should be treated like an investment and should therefore be executed with due diligence.

We spoke with the experts at Summit Homes about the biggest mistakes to avoid when renovating, no matter how big or small the job.

1. Guessing

Summit Renovations Designer Ashley Tunley said being unrealistic about your budget and not understanding the real value of renovations is detrimental to your goals. He suggests to sit down with an expert who can explain to you all the obvious, and not so obvious costs involved.

“This way you have a clear idea at the outset of exactly what the financial outlay is likely to be and you won’t be disappointed half way through when you realise that the dream kitchen you had envisioned might be out of reach due to an unrealistic idea of your budget.

“By speaking to an expert, you will also gain a clear understanding about the elements of a home renovation which add real value to your home.” Mr Tunley said.

2. DIY-ing everything

If you do half or all of the renovations yourself, be sure that you are competent of achieving a neat and tidy finish. Doing EVERYTHING yourself can result in a waste of time, effort and money.

According to Mr Tunley, a renovation – whether that be a kitchen overhaul or the addition of bedrooms, should result in a house which flows seamlessly.

“The last thing you want is an end result where the new renovation looks and feels like it has just been tacked on.” Mr Tunley said.

While DIY is the bread and butter for a lot of homeowners when renovating, it is not for everyone. If in doubt about your skills, it’s best to use a professional.

3. Going for the cheapest

While it may be tempting, Mr Tunley advises against going for the cheapest option.

“It is vital you fully understand what is included and excluded in the contract price. A cheap price doesn’t equal value for money and more often than not, will cost you more over the long term as you fix a low standard final result,” Mr Tunley said.

After all, any renovation work will add value to your home, so ensure you are adding in what you want to take out of it.

4. Failing to be selective about your builder

Like any investment, it is important to explore all of your options before settling. Mr Tunley said to settle for a builder who specialises in renovations and will seek all necessary approvals.

“Entrusting your hard-earned money and valued home to an expert in the renovation field will make for an enjoyable and stress free renovation project and a great end result,” Mr Tunley said.

For your renovation journey to be as seamless as possible, take the time to meet with different builders and ask as many questions as you have about your renovation project. From here you will get a good sense of which builder is right for you and can meet your renovation goals.

Begin your renovating journey by finding an expert renovator from Summit Homes.

5. Under capitalising your property

Take particular note of this point if you are renovating for the purpose of making a profit. If you are renovating or flipping an investment property, research is imperative to ensure what you put in will actually increase the property’s market value.

“Do your research. Look at other homes within your street and suburb and find out what they sold for to get a gauge on the market value of your home so you don’t spend too much or too little to make your renovation right,” Mr Tunley said.

Seek the advice from a local REIWA agent who can take the guesswork out of marketing your property at the right price and provide guidance on what features buyers are specifically looking for.

6. Not having a clear budget

Sticking to a budget can be tough for even the most experienced renovator which is why determining your budget from the very start is the foundation to a successful renovation. Make sure your budget is also reiterated to your builder.

“Make sure your builder has a clear budget to work to and understands your needs and what you are trying to achieve out of the renovations.” Mr Tunley said.

It is important that you don’t put all of you money into your budget without a buffer in case something goes wrong. Even the most organised renovation projects don’t go according to plan and having the additional money put aside will help if this occurs.

7. Failing to think ahead

It’s important not to renovate on impulse. Thoroughly think about the intent of your renovations. Are you renovating to re-sell? Or to expand your home for your growing family? Once you renovate you can’t go back, so make sure you plan for your lifestyle goals and needs.

Mr Tunley said to think about your family’s needs now and what they might be in years to come.

“Make sure you design for the future and not for tomorrow. Future proof your home for a growing family so you can grow into it and not out of it.” Mr Tunley said.

8. Not asking questions

Last but not least, ask questions along the way. There is no turning back once you've started knocking down walls. Mr Tunley believes asking questions is vital for you to fully understand how the renovation will link to the existing house.

"Make sure room sizes will be suitable, that your kitchen will be large enough for how you cook and entertain, that ceiling heights are suitable and tie into the existing property," Mr Tunley said.

See "Choosing the right builder for you" for more advice on how to choose the right builder or head to Summit Homes  to begin your building/renovation journey.