With spring just around the corner, homeowners across New Zealand are gearing up for renovation projects. However, many need to pay more attention to booking their renovations well in advance to avoid the seasonal rush. Cowan Building explores why early booking is essential, providing comprehensive tips for planning a successful renovation, including budget considerations. By avoiding the spring rush, you can take control of your renovation timeline and reduce the stress of last-minute arrangements.
As the days slowly become lighter and brighter and the seasons turn, many of us will ponder our home improvements. Understandably, during the cooler months, many homeowners are sceptical of beginning renovation work that can encroach on their warm and inviting winter abode.
However, as the seasons change, the building sector typically witnesses a huge rush as homeowners begin to dream up their renovation plans. This can leave many scrambling to find timelines and builders who can help.
Why Book Your Renovation Early?
Avoid the Rush: Spring is a popular time for home renovations, leading to high demand for builders and tradespeople. Booking early ensures you secure the best professionals before their schedules fill up.
Better Prices: Early booking can sometimes result in better pricing as contractors may offer discounts to secure jobs ahead of time.
Stress Reduction: Planning ahead reduces the stress of last-minute arrangements and ensures a smoother renovation process. Renovations can be stressful if you are not correctly prepared for the occasion.
Top Tips for Planning Your Renovation
When deciding what to renovate, there are a few steps to consider. Planning is vital, as every detail needs your attention to ensure a smooth and easy process. This can also save time with your builder and project manager and ensure all your concepts are included from the offset. By understanding this and being fully prepared, you cannot only save time but also save money, giving you a sense of accomplishment and control over your project.
Define Your Goals
Decide if your renovation aims to increase resale value, improve functionality, or refresh your living space. Knowing your exact goals can help shape the scope and budget of your project. Write everything down, particularly the things you love about the space and those you do not. This can help define exactly what you are trying to achieve with the renovation.
Set a Realistic Budget
Factor in all costs, including materials, labour, and unexpected expenses. A good rule of thumb is to add a contingency fund of about 10-15% of your budget for unforeseen issues. Working with professionals and not biting off more than you can chew – when it comes to DIY – can also save you a lot of money and stress during this process.
Hire Licensed Professionals
Ensure you hire licensed tradespeople and check if you need building consent. Licensed professionals are crucial for compliance with local regulations and ensuring quality work. A professional builder and project manager can ensure you stick to budget and give you a clear understanding of what your budget can get. They can also advise you on where to save money and when you need a professional. This is particularly true with any electrical and plumbing work your renovation may require, giving you peace of mind and confidence in the quality of your project.
Create a Detailed Plan
Work with a designer or architect to create comprehensive plans. Detailed plans help prevent misunderstandings and delays during the construction phase. Take all your notes from the first step to ensure your plan is aesthetically pleasing and meets your needs.
Consider the Calendar
Align your renovation timeline with your personal schedule and any significant events. Avoid peak times to get more availability and better service from contractors. Booking early can ensure that timelines and diaries are all in line while guaranteeing that all materials will be ordered and ready on-site before the renovation begins.
How to Budget for a Renovation
When it comes to budgeting, it is important to fully understand how much your project could cost. Working with experts in the trades can really help here. Get multiple quotes from builders to understand the cost range for your project. For example, a kitchen renovation can vary significantly based on the materials and design choices, from $4,000 for a basic setup to over $30,000 for a high-end custom kitchen.
It is also recommended that you prioritise your renovation needs vs. wants. List all potential renovation items and categorise them into "must-haves" and "nice-to-haves." This will help you manage your budget and allow you to focus on the essential upgrades first.
If your budget is tight, consider staging your renovations over a period of time. Having the dream ending, but breaking this down into things that need to be done first. Prioritise projects that improve quality of life or structural integrity, like heating, insulation, and essential repairs, before embarking on the new kitchen, bathroom or extension.
Get Inspired! Resources for Inspiration and Guidance
Handyman Magazine NZ - Offers a comprehensive checklist and tips for successful home renovations.
Consumer NZ - Provides guidance on choosing designers and understanding the costs associated with different types of professionals.
Government Resources - The New Zealand Government website offers detailed advice on planning renovations, including budget management and necessary consent.
Your Home and Garden NZ - Shares cost-effective renovations and budget planning tips.
By planning and booking your home renovation early, you can avoid the spring rush, secure the best contractors, and ensure a smoother, more efficient renovation process. Need advice? Cowan Building are here to help.