The Need-To-Know ABCs Of Home Renovation

If getting the ABCs of home renovation right were as simple as waving a spirit level and yelling ‘abracadabra’, then we’d all be living (in) the dream. But renovation isn’t exactly a walk in the park, and there are a number of factors to consider before anyone can even step onto site.

Know what you’re getting into and whether you’re ready to renovate by diving into the typical steps of a renovation journey:

A: Don’t jump the (nail) gun!

Before committing pen to paper, it’s important to ask yourself why you’re thinking of a renovation and what you expect to gain from it. Is it for a better living experience, do you have another family member on the way (congratulations if you do!) or are you wanting to add value to your property for future resale?

Because you’ll be providing direction to the eventual renovation team, these and other crucial questions need to be answered before blueprints can be drafted or specialists contacted.

B: Can you afford it and does your budget allow for contingencies?

Every renovation should start with a firm, honest budget appraisal that accounts for unforeseen expenses and delays. It’s also a good idea to contact local builders to acquire a few cost estimates beforehand, so you’ve got an accurate idea of what to expect. (At Sertorio Homes, for instance, our CEO Bruce will give you a personalised cost estimate!) Chatting to your insurance provider about extending your cover is also an effective way of protecting your finances should the cement hit the fan during the project.

C: DIY or professional?

Do you know how to identify load-bearing and non-load-bearing walls with certainty? What about selecting the correct drill bits for different surfaces, such as masonry, drywall or plaster walls? 

Two out of three homeowners decide to take on part of the renovation work themselves. Yes, DIY can save you time and money, but if you’re inexperienced or on a tight deadline, you will almost certainly run into difficulties that you cannot control. 

Do you have experience with these DIY roadblocks?

  • Replacing old wiring, fuses boxes or light fixtures for safety or aesthetic reasons.
  • Dealing with damp or condensation buildup caused by a variety of factors, including blocked drainage systems and incorrect masonry.
  • Choosing the materials and tools best suited for the job, at the appropriate price point.

If you lack experience with even one of the above, then enlisting the help of a professional, experienced builder is the safest course of action. From drafting the initial plans and conducting site inspections, to putting together a specialist team for your unique needs, professional builders like those at Sertorio Homes offer high quality services and guidance throughout the process. 

Are you ready to renovate?

If you’re still unsure how to answer that question, then the Sertorio Homes Getting Real About Renovation guide is for you. As Perth’s premier custom home builder and improvements company, we are uniquely positioned to advise and guide you throughout the home renovation process. Take a look at the guide and find out if you’re really ready to renovate! If you’d like to get in touch with us directly to learn more about our approach to home renovation in Perthclick here.

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