Do you have big dreams for renovating your home, but only a limited budget to achieve them? The good news is that there are some simple ways you can cut costs on your home renovation.
In this blog, we’ve put together our top tips to help you stick to your budget and save money during your home renovation project.
Have a Working Bee
There are plenty of small renovation jobs that you and your family and friends can do yourselves. Get a working bee going for the small price of a BBQ.
Here are some easy tasks you can do:
- Painting
- Fencing
- Landscaping and gardening
- Stripping and polishing floorboards
- Assembling a flat-pack kitchen
- Simple tiling jobs
Get Some DIY Lessons
Basic DIY requires some practical knowledge, specific skills and tools. Visit your local hardware store and ask for their advice. Also, see if they have any upcoming workshops or courses where you can learn the necessary skills.
Once you have some basic knowledge on how to DIY, you can start thinking about how to approach your reno project and some ways to save money.
Pay Professionals for the Important Jobs
Whether you’re an experienced DIY-er or doing it for the first time, it’s important to know your limitations. You may think you’re saving money by doing everything yourself, but DIY mistakes can be expensive and dangerous.
Always make sure to hire professionals for electrical, plumbing and structural work, unless you’re qualified in these trades. Take the time to get at least three quotes, but remember, the cheapest isn’t always the best. Look at reviews or talk to previous customers to ensure that you are getting a good service for your money.
Shop around for materials
The materials that you choose for your reno can have a big influence on its overall cost. Take the time to shop around to find materials that offer you the best quality and value for money. It’s also worth looking in ‘scratch and dent’ or ‘discontinued’ sales to find a bargain. Also, look online for used or recycled materials.
Keep your home’s layout the same
One of the most expensive changes you can make during your renovation is moving big items like sinks, bathtubs, stoves, windows and walls. Sometimes removing a wall may mean you need to install expensive load-bearing beams instead. Not only do you need to pay for the materials to support the move (like plumbing, wiring, beams, new countertops, and cabinets), you will need to hire a professional to do the work too.
Unless your home’s functionality is really an issue, it’s best to leave the layout the same as it was before.
Think about long-term savings
When your budget is tight, it can be worthwhile to include energy-efficient technology or materials that will save you money in the long run. If you can, include some basic energy-saving technology in your renovation such as:
- Quality insulation
- Solar panels
- LED lights
- Rainwater tanks
Be creative with fittings
Another way to cut costs during your renovation is to be creative with your fittings. Rather than replacing everything, it can be a good idea to spruce them up. For example, you can make a big impact with new paint or mood lighting. You can also try resurfacing or repainting bathroom tiles, baths and basins for a new look.
Learn to compromise
When renovating on a budget, it’s important to decide which items are ‘must-have’ and which are ‘nice-to-have’. You may need to compromise on some of your wishlist items in order to stick to your budget. Prioritise your spending for the essential aspects of your home.
Looking To Start Your Home Renovation?
At JM Homes, we ensure we always take the time to listen, communicate and act with our client’s interests at heart at every stage of the build.
If you have a renovation project in mind, we’re Brisbane’s building experts. Whether it’s a Queenslander, new build, house raise or extension, we can help you.
Contact us today.