6 Things People Overlook Before Starting A Home Renovation

Home renovations can quickly become costly if not properly planned. Here are some key things to consider to prevent a budget blowout.

Starting a home renovation comes with a mix of excitement and nervousness. Of course, you’re eager to see your grand visions for your updated space become reality, but there is always a niggling doubt about unforeseen issues that may crop up.

Whether it’s painting the walls or doing the floors, renovation costs can blow out if you don’t budget correctly. Picture: Getty

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The good news is with a little forethought, many of these unknowns can largely be managed, allowing you to keep your home makeover plans on track with minimal stress or extra strain on your finances.

Here are six tips so you can enjoy your beautiful new Insta-worthy space without resorting to beans on toast.

Easy steps to keep your reno budget under control

Research and planning

Taking the time to think about where you’ll likely position your furniture and the best spots to place electrical outlets or heating and cooling ducts will help ensure everything is right where you want it from the get-go.

“Speaking to a licensed air-conditioner installer as soon as you have the plans allows them to recommend the best solution for your space and plan appropriately”, says Graham Hamilton, General Manager of Sales for Mitsubishi Heavy Industries.

Having the correct air-conditioning system for your newly renovated space, and placed in the optimal location, can deliver huge energy efficiencies, which helps save on your bills down the track.

Detailed budgeting

Many people underestimate the expense involved in a home renovation, but it’s not as simple as misjudging the cost of materials or labour.

Things like services you may need during the renovation such as temporary fencing, skip hire, waste disposal and alternative accommodation you may need are often forgotten about when planning a budget.

When thinking about all the items you’d like your revamped home to include, such as furniture, window furnishings, and air conditioning, it pays to really nut out what you want.

Where you decide to place your air-con can play a part in costs down the track, like energy bills. Picture: Getty

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For example, when it comes to air conditioning, how you plan on using your air-con as well as several other factors will impact the type and size of system your installer will recommend. Considering whether you want features such as a smart thermostat or zoning (if you’re opting for a ducted system) will also impact cost.

“There are a number of factors an installer will consider when recommending an air-con,” says Graham.

“This includes the size of the space, your home’s insulation, the size of your windows and which direction they face, the type of flooring – the list goes on.”

“Online tools such as the Mitsubishi Heavy Industries request a quote can make this very simple,” he adds.

As an added bonus, to celebrate its 25th anniversary in Australia, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries is offering customers up to $500 cash bonus when they purchase eligible air-conditioners during the promotional period.

Permits and regulations

It’s important to understand permits and local building regulations to avoid fines or, worse, having to redo work.

Seek advice from your local council to find out what approvals are required for the work you’re planning.

Quality of materials

Ever heard the saying “the poor person pays twice”? While opting for cheaper materials might seem like a budget-friendly option, they often deteriorate quickly and require early replacement.

Look for quality, reliable brands that offer a long warranty to avoid future expenses.

“We’re super proud to have been named by CHOICE^® as the best air-con brand 6 years running and Canstar Blue as having the most satisfied customers 5 years running which I think is a huge testament to the quality of both our products and our after sales service,” says Graham.

Reuse and recycle

Before you start your demolition, it is worthwhile considering what can be salvaged and repurposed from your existing space.

Things like doors, windows, hardwood flooring, and light fixtures can often be removed, given a bit of a makeover, and reused.

Have a think about materials you could reuse – like tiles – to save yourself some money. Picture: realestate.com.au

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This saves money, reduces waste, and can add unique character to your renovation.

Alternatively, if you have fittings that are in reasonable condition, but you don’t think they’ll work with your renovation plans, you can potentially sell them through an online market and offset some of your costs.

To DIY or not to DIY

If you’re a bit of a handy person, you might be tempted to take on some of the renovation work yourself and save money.

However, it’s important to be realistic about your skills and what the task involves, or you may end up making mistakes you need a professional to correct, or with a rough-looking end result.