Don’t Make These Home Renovation Mistakes

Whether you’re planning a small home renovation such as repainting your exterior windows and doors or you’re going to go the whole hog by building a first floor addition Sydney homeowners love spending money on their homes.

However, while some renovations can boost the value of your property, others can end up costing you your hard-earned dollars. So which renovations are worth your investment and which ones should be approached with caution? We asked a local expert in home additions Sydney wide for their advice. 

The Top Renovation Trends In NSW

There are many changes you can make to your house to give you more space, more light and a more contemporary feel. The current top renovation trends in NSW are:

·         Installing bi-fold doors and frameless glass systems to open up the rear of the property

·         Replacing existing windows with larger versions to let in more light and take advantage of the view.

·         Creating an open-plan living space by removing interior walls.

·         Updating kitchens with modern, space-saving appliances, adding extra storage and opening the space up to the garden.

·         Increasing the size and number of bathrooms, while installing designer fixtures and fittings.

·         Creating a home office for those times when working at home is an option.

·         Creating an ‘adults only’ space complete with private balcony or courtyard.

And of course, repainting interiors and exteriors to make the property look fresher and cleaner.

Beware of These Renovations – They Could Devalue Your Property

Unfortunately, some renovations may actually devalue your property, especially if they’re not carried out correctly or well.

One way to put yourself out of pocket is to renovate your house to a standard or size that takes it outside the norm for your area, but there are a whole host of other ‘mistakes’ that could cost you dearly.

·         Always ensure that an extension or renovation matches or complements the original building. If it looks entirely different, it could put off prospective purchasers.

·         Be mindful of spending too much on fixtures and fittings. For example, specialist tiles or bright colour schemes may suit you and your family. However, many buyers prefer neutral colour schemes and fixtures so that they can inject their own personality into the house.

·         Unattractive outdoor space can put off prospective purchasers. We love the outdoor life in Sydney, and if buyers can’t see any external area to kick back, relax and entertain, they’re likely to move onto a property that has a usable and attractive outside space.

·         You may feel the need to remove trees to give you more space, however attractive trees can often help to add value to a property.

·         Illegal extensions can result in having to spend extra money to make it comply with local regulations. In the worst case scenario, you may have to remove the extension completely.

·         Structural issues, such as unsound subfloors can cause subsidence, so always check that the underlying structure is sound before installing new kitchens and bathrooms.

·         DIY renovations can save you money, but if you’re not experienced enough to do a good job, they could end up costing you more than you save. Plus, bear in mind that installing your own wiring and plumbing if you’re not correctly qualified is not only dangerous, but it’s illegal too.

Consult a Professional and Reliable Building Contractor

If you are planning major renovations, it’s wise to consult with a reliable and professional building contractor who will ensure that the money you invest in your property will be money well spent.