Getting started
Invest in your future
For most people a home is much more than a place to live, it's a long-term investment. Your renovation decisions will have important consequences for your future living costs and quality of life, so you want to get it right.
Times are changing rapidly and new issues need to be factored into smart investment decisions. This is sometimes called 'future proofing' - making sure your investment will hold its value over time.
When you're planning your renovation it's easy to focus on the short term, 'What can I afford right now?' But when you think about it, features that enhance resale value, improve comfort and reduce bills are worth paying a little bit more for now.
You can use savings on energy and water bills to pay off your mortgage faster.
Some financiers offer lower interest rates (known as 'green' mortgages) or other financial incentives for home improvements that are designed to save precious resources like energy and water.
Government rebates are also available to offset the purchase cost of many energy and water saving items.
'The first time we renovated, we made a few mistakes that really cost us. This time we're going to do our homework first.'
Plan ahead
Good planning is such an important part of ensuring value for money. Most renovation budget overruns are the result of poor planning - changing the design half way through, trying to fix up problems you didn't see coming, or simply failing to make the most of the opportunities presented.
Experienced renovators will tell you how important it is to plan ahead.
This guide is designed to help you do just that, with prompts and handy tips on each page, as well as checklists you can personalise.
Write a wish list of everything you want from your renovation. This can include qualities such as 'light and airy' as well as more specific outcomes such as extra living space, an efficient hot water system or a more functional kitchen.
At the same time, take stock of what you've got - this step is so important for making the most of your renovation.
An assessment of your home will identify the most cost effective opportunities for big improvements. It will also identify potential hazards so you can deal with them in the most cost effective way.
Use what you find to develop and refine your wish list.
You can use the 'home assessment' checklist yourself, or go through it with your designer.
