Home renovations can cost a lot of money. And when you do not have a big budget to work with, any money-saving tricks are most welcome. You do not have to spend on high-end materials to achieve a luxurious space. There are a number of ways to save money without sacrificing the quality of the build.

Aside from finding ways to save on the whole project, it is important to:

• Set a budget and stick to it
• Set a definite time for completion
• Hire the right contractor
• Consider the resale value or cost recuperation

Getting the project done right and on time can mean getting it done for less. But there are more ways to save money on the project too. Here’s how:

Plan Ahead

Plan the remodel by getting the designs and blueprint done early before you start. Look out for deals and promos for the materials, furniture, fixtures and accessories. Buy them during promo season before you start the project. Do not be in a hurry to start.

Make sure you have the materials sourced, ordered and in stock before you officially start the build. Once you start, you cannot delay or stop because you run out of materials. Have everything on hand. Be fully committed even before you start. 

Expect The Unexpected

Anticipate delays, mistakes, and accidents so you have enough wiggle room in your budget, time, and materials. Do not order the exact quantity of materials, always get extra in case some tiles break, etc.

Expect delays or mistakes in the materials you order so leave room in your schedule for some delays. Minor mistakes can set you back a day or two and can create a domino effect. Always be ready for the unexpected.

Do Not Change The Existing Floor Plan

If it’s not broken, don’t fix it. If your existing layout works just fine, do not move or change it. Moving the floor plan means moving the plumbing and electrical system, possibly the HVAC system too. This is very expensive. Try to work with the existing layout to save money, unless it is absolutely necessary to do so.

Use Stock Sizes

Choose standard sizes for your materials as this is cheaper than custom pieces. This works for storage and fixtures too. It is also easier to source out materials with standard sizes so you don’t only save money, you save time as well.

Buy Cheaper Materials

Buying cheaper materials does not mean you are sacrificing the quality of the materials. Sometimes, where you buy the products matters.

For example, tiles are much cheaper at resale or outlet stores than in big home improvement stores. You can also find high-quality materials at a better price in online stores like eBay or Craigslist. Canvass the cheapest price from different stores before you buy.

Building Supply Auctions

Check for state and local auctions for building supplies. There are plenty around. Ask your local business association or your local authorities for scheduled auctions. Building auctions is a great place to buy good quality materials in bulk at a much lower price.

Haul The Materials Yourself

Where possible, try to pick up the materials yourself so that you can avoid expensive delivery charges. Renting a truck yourself instead of using the store’s delivery can save you a lot of money or better still, ask your mates to see if someone has a ute that you can borrow for half a day.

Stay Away From Recent Trends

Stick with classic materials and design. Avoid going with the trend. Trendy materials are expensive and can easily go out of style fast. Going with classic colours and style means you do not have to update your space often and the materials can easily be sourced. They are cheaper too.

Do The Small Jobs Yourself

Save on labour costs by doing the small jobs yourself. Labour costs have skyrocketed in recent years. A few odd jobs that you can do yourself can significantly lower your labour costs.

Save On Appliances 

There are ways to save on appliances:

• Buy during promos and big sales
• Look for unnoticeable scratches and dents
• Buy used but not abused furniture and accessories
• Skip the extended warranty

Do you want to learn more ways to save on your remodelling project and achieve the space you have been dreaming of? Talk to our designers and experts now! 

Please call us today at Period Extensions & Designs on (03) 8658 1340 or contact us through our contact form.

Taking on a home renovation project is exciting but can also be intimidating. Unless you have an unlimited budget to cover everything that may go wrong, you need a good builder who will ensure your project will be on budget and on time.

Before you start any renovation project, you have to make sure that you are 100% committed and are ready to invest both time and money into it. Uncertainty about what you want can lead to multiple design changes, delays, and mistakes that can cost thousands of dollars.

We have put together a list of easy steps you can use as a guide when undertaking your own remodelling project. This list can be used as a guide to help you avoid the many pitfalls experienced by others.

Planning

Planning is perhaps the most important part of the renovation process. In fact, it is the most important part of any build. This is where you consider all the factors relating to the build, including design, budget and duration of the build.

• Budget – make sure you have enough money to cover the costs plus some contingency in the budget in case there are delays, accidents, and mistakes during the build.
• Timeline or Schedule – It is important to set a timeline for the completion of the project. This will help you stay within budget and achieve a cohesive build.
• Design – Sit down with your designer, architect or draftsman to come up with the design of your dreams that also falls within budget and can be completed within the time allocated.
• Choose the Right Contractor or Builder – Hiring the right builder or contractor means being able to stick to the budget and timeline while achieving a high-quality build. Put quality of work ahead of price when it comes to hiring a contractor. Check out their previous projects and talk to former clients. Don’t just jump at the cheapest option.
• Demolition – We highly recommend you hire professionals to carry out the demolition and subsequent build. A professional will have the expertise to do it right and avoid any mishaps. Furthermore, they can dispose of the building debris more efficiently than perhaps you may be able to. You also need to be aware of the presence of asbestos on your property, which will require professionals to demolish and dispose of as per the regulations.

Electrical and Plumbing

Once the space is cleaned and is ready for the next stage, you or your builder can start installing the HVAC, electrical wiring and plumbing system. This is important because the site will require an inspection of your electrical, HVAC, and plumbing system before you and your builder can continue the work. Make sure everything is in order so you will pass the inspection and avoid any delays and re-dos.

Drywalling and Framing

Only when you have passed the electrical, plumbing and HVAC inspections can you start the following:

• Installing the drywall
• Moving and constructing walls
• Adding new support beams
• Putting in door and window openings

Painting

The painting process should be the fun part if you are DIY-ing your renovation. You have a blank canvas to paint and design your dream space. Choose the right paint that will complement or contrast the existing building so you can get a cohesive and unique area.

Cabinets and Fixtures

Allow the paint to dry completely before you start installing cabinetry, lighting and fixtures including sinks, faucets, showers etc.

Installing Doors and Windows

When all else is done, you are ready to install your doors and windows before you can start bringing in the furniture and decorations and putting in hardwood floors.

Install Flooring

The flooring is one of the last things to be installed so it doesn’t get scratched, or damaged during the renovation process. Once the flooring is done, you can then install the carpets or laminate tiles or whatever finish you have decided upon.

Clean and Finish

Once you are done, make sure you work on the finishes and clean up so the space is ready for moving in.

Decorate

The room is not completely finished until you have brought in the furniture and accessories. This is where you can add a personal touch to the newly renovated space. Make it yours.

Congratulations, your renovation project is complete!

Final Thoughts

Home renovations can be exciting but they can also be overwhelming and a lot can go wrong if you don’t have the necessary experience.

Professional project managers know the dos and don’ts that can help keep you on budget and on schedule, not to mention deliver the best results.

For all your renovation and extension projects, trust only the best in Melbourne. At Period Extensions & Designs, we combine award-winning designs with down to earth service that is second to none. Let us help you bring your vision to life!

Please call us today at Period Extensions & Designs on (03) 8658 1340 or contact us through our contact form.