THREE BIG THINGS TO CONSIDER WHEN RENOVATION PLANNING…

THREE BIG THINGS TO CONSIDER WHEN RENOVATION PLANNING…


1.What is the difference between a New Home Builder and a Renovation Builder?

Many people will see two different utes drive by that have ‘builder’ emblazoned on the doors and think they do exactly the same thing when nothing could be further from the truth!

Just as doctors, dentists, accountants, lawyer and other professions all specialise in a chosen field within their occupation, the same can be said for builders. How is this so you may ask? The fact is building a new home and completing complex home renovations are two very different undertakings – just ask any experienced builders!

The construction process of a new home (a project home) is a very cookie-cutter type process – slab, frame, roof, fit out – done. The same processes are completed the day in and day out and it actually becomes quite a rapid affair with homes built very quickly. It’s a brand new slab and brand new timber which is usually pre-fabricated wall frames and trusses that stand up quickly and are secured together. All the electrical and plumbing is planned and installed in the easiest part of the process, and everything is scheduled and structured for maximum efficiency.

Compare this to a home renovation where you are firstly demolishing (very carefully as often it is inside someone’s home), and trying to combine old with new elements, then having to remove and replace elements of the home for plumbing and wiring, finding parts of the home like framing that need to replaced – it’s a whole new ball game! Renovating is a continual process of discovery and planning that means a flexible schedule and building a new home is the very opposite which can usually be planned (excluding weather) to a tee.

As renovating and building a new home are very different undertakings – so are the builders that complete them. A dedicated renovation builder loves the challenge of the unknown, and loves solving problems and making things work. This takes a special patient demeanour, a solution based mindset and mixed in with that, the practical experience to tie it all together. The thing they will love most is bringing all this together and seeing the smile on your face when it’s all complete!

2. What does your timeline look like?

After considering your budget, the next thing we need to think about is your timeline and when you need the project to be finished. Notice we said when it needs to be ‘finished’ not ‘started’, as a confirmed start date does not always equal a confirmed finished date. Although builders will schedule and plan the best they can, there can be inevitable delays that can change the completion date of the renovation.

Again, this is something that a builder will be able to give you the best idea of what is realistic. Regardless of what home renovation TV shows say, to flawlessly execute a quality home renovation does take it’s time, and cannot be rushed if you want an outstanding outcome. A good builder is the most qualified person to walk you through the project in stages and let you know how long it is really likely to take.

Considering your timeline becomes very important especially if you have a deadline around the renovation, for example a baby due, or someone moving back home by a certain date. In this circumstance, it is critical to get your timeline right or there could be very real consequences, even having to find other accommodation which can get expensive.

3. How Do You Want Your New Space to Function and Flow?

This element of the renovation is critical because you will most likely be here for a long time, and it needs to suit you and your families lifestyle. While the ‘party’ people will go straight to the colours, carpets and fancy fittings, you need to take the time to think how you want your home to function.

When we talk function, we mean the practical elements that will make your home ‘work’. For example, do you need a home office if someone works from home a lot? And if you do need an office, where is the quietest place to put it? Do you have teenagers or kids who love to get into the backyard? Then you need to plan for the thoroughfare to be away from places like the kitchen where people could be walking with plates of food.

Also with outdoor entertaining areas, these are best with easy access to the kitchen so it’s a simple task to get amazing dishes out to guests without having to dodge kids. Think about laundries and their placement, plus garages and how much room you need there.

During the planning phase, really think about how you want your home to flow so you get it right the first time, it’s very expensive to change afterwards! Going to display home villages are sometimes a great place to discover how homes flow and you can get other great ideas for your renovation.

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