Cowan Building Limited

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Renovation. Renovation. Renovation

Want to know when the best time to renovate your home? Or the most popular renovation? Cowan building has you covered with everything you need to know about renovating your existing home or investment property. 

 

As the weather warms so are those hammers! With renovations gearing up in 2022 it’s time to answer some of the important questions. So, before you call in the builders it’s time to consider some points to ensure your home renovation goes to plan.

 

When is the best time to renovate your home?

 

When it comes to renovations, planning is essential. Your home will become a mini-construction site so ensuring you pick the right time of year is the best place to start. Deciding to renovate in the colder months can cause many headaches. However, if you are lucky enough to have somewhere else to stay – and shower if you are renovating a bathroom, then considering the season isn’t that important.

 

But for the vast majority of renovating enthusiasts – living in, while the renovation work is being carried out is the only option. For this reason, it’s best to start the job during the warmer months, when you have more options to be out and about instead of being stuck inside while the renovation is in full swing. But that’s not to say you waste those cold winter days. Planning and dreaming – think vision boards, paint colours, cabinetry, vanities, appliances, and all the other aspects of the renovation – is perfectly done on a wintery day with a nice hot cuppa in hand. 

 

Builders are also in hot demand. Planning in the winter and booking in for the spring and summer is ideal. Remember that you’ll need to give your builder plenty of time to organise and project manage your renovation, so time is of the essence. 

 

What is the most popular home renovation?

 

The two most popular home renovations are also the most valuable. Updating that outdated kitchen and giving the bathroom a new modern touch is by far the most popular home renovation. With these zones now taking a proud stance in our homes, it’s no wonder homeowners want them to represent areas of importance with a good renovation. Kitchens are now the hub of the home, with many families attesting that they spend a massive amount of time in the kitchen. This can be for a range of reasons – entertaining, cooking, eating, and even a spot of work or homework. They are also renowned for the special place to catch up with friends and family over large sweeping island benchtop. 

 

Having a well-represented open kitchen is also a big selling point. With all of us spending more time in our kitchens it’s no wonder we want them to be as beautiful and functional as possible.

 

Bathrooms are also top of the list. Not only do they provide us with a place to wash and prepare for the day, today many of us see our bathroom space as an escape. Whether it’s to wash away the day with a luxurious rain shower or to soak our troubles in a bath full of bubbles. A bathroom is now a place of retreat and relaxation. Having this at the forefront of many homeowners’ desires, many are dreaming of that perfect bathroom renovation.

 

Other popular renovations include:

  • Whole house renovation

  • Adding rooms

  • Door and window replacement

  • Repairing damage

  • Outside decking

  • Outside entertaining areas

 

What things should I consider before renovating?

 

It’s a good idea to get a clear picture of why you are renovating your home. Is it for resale? Or for you to stay in the home longer? Renovating for resale needs different attention instead of your personal touch. Think neutral colours, update what needs to be done, and look at the renovation from an investment point of view. You want to please more people and the demographic you think will be attracted to the sale. Staying with classic designs and clean and neutral colours will offer you much more room to please when it comes to your possible buyer and their individual tastes. Making a statement with the renovation could push buyers out – after all first impressions count and we all have different taste particularly when it comes to design, theme and colours.

 

If you are renovating for your own personal tastes the sky is the limit. Here you can really add your own stamp of individualism and make your home exactly how you wish it to be. Go as bold and big as you like. There are plenty of stunning trends in 2022 that is set to stay for generations to come.

 

Other aspects include:

  • Get a realistic budget set firmly in place

  • Talk to the experts

  • Get planning early

  • Consider the seasons

  • Ask yourself what you love, and loath about the space and work from there

  • Be functional – practicality in all renovation designs is paramount

 

What should you NOT do in a home renovation?

 

The most important aspect of home renovating is not to bite off more than you can chew. DIY sounds romantic and cost-effective however many who are not experienced (and even some that are) will attest that renovating a home is no easy feat. Sometimes it can end up costing you more to fix the problems you have created by trying to do it yourself. Be realistic, there are ways to save money, that won’t compromise your mental health and budget. 

 

Also consider:

  • Functionality is vital – think about how the space will work and not just look

  • Do not set an unrealistic budget or take on too much DIY work

  • Don’t be too trendy – trends come and go your renovation will be around for a while

  • Consider the overall aspects of your home and ensure the renovation fits with this

  • Don’t buy your new appliances and furniture too early

 

With the right advice and planning, you can look forward to a successful home renovation project! Needing some professional input? You know who to call.