1. Find that perfect property
You may be renovating a property you already have or be on the lookout for an existing property to buy. If you are looking for a new property, an auction site is a great place to find a bargain. Be sure to look around the property beforehand, to ensure you know what you are getting into, you don't want to bite off more than you can chew! As long as it's structurally sound then you are winning. Have a budget in mind for the cost of the property and renovations, give or take 10% and don't go over it, especially if you are buying to renovate and sell on shortly. Online resources such as this DIY renovation guide can help in your planning and decision-making process.
2. Keep original features
It's best to keep as many original features as possible, especially in a period property as this will help the resale value and keep the authentic period look. Timber floors, floor tiles, original doors and windows can all be renovated beautifully. Sand or stain original floorboards, clean tiles and replace broken ones. If the cost is prohibitive always try and get a sympathetic replacement, and avoid plastic doors and windows if at all possible in an older property.
3. Install central heating
Installing central heating or a new heating system will bring the property bang up-to-date. It's always a good idea to shop around to compare prices. Don't forget a bigger house will cost more on installation due to the number of radiators and pipework needed. Get quotes in writing, detailing exactly what it covers so you can compare like for like. If you have the skills and knowledge to do it yourself you can save even more money but never attempt it unless you know what you are doing, as a botched job could cost you more in the long run.
4. Convert your loft space
A way of adding an extra room without huge building costs is to convert a loft. A loft conversion can cost anything between £10,000 and £40,000 but adding a loft can add an extra 20% in resale value to your home as well as providing a much-needed extra room in the house. Planning permission is not normally required too but always check. For more information check out this beginners guide to loft conversion.
5. Rejuvenate or replace windows
Try to keep the original windows especially if it's a period property as this will keep the authentic look and will help retain the resale value. It can be cost-effective to rejuvenate your windows by treating the wood, replacing the latches or replacing panes. However, if you have to totally replace your windows, think of the suitability of the material and the style of the property. Many modern homes have UPVC windows, as they are cheap, durable and help with insulation. Older properties have wooden windows which can look great but can be drafty. If you live in Washington, you might consider Renewal by Andersen windows in Belleview, as they offer a range of replacement options that balance aesthetics and energy efficiency. It's important you get someone who can fit your windows properly, so get quotes from local specialists and go from there.
6. Kitchen
Kitchens can be revamped fairly easily. If your kitchen units are in good condition you can just paint the doors or replace them without all the fuss of stripping out the old kitchen and putting in a new one. Getting new lights can also make a difference and spotlights can add extra lighting for preparation or cooking areas. If your kitchen is small, and free-standing furniture can provide extra storage space, check out IKEA for well-priced kitchen furniture.
7. Don't forget the roof
Roof repairs are costly so it's worth repairing any damage as opposed to replacing it. This isn't the time to do it yourself if you are not trained in this area. As well as the safety issue, you don't want a repair that goes wrong, that can let water in, so this is one area you definitely need to hire the best you can afford. Recommendations are important so ask around in your local area.
8. Do the garden last
Basics can be done at any time. Tidy up the garden, get rid of dead plants and weeds, mow the lawn and get rid of any rubbish. This will give curb appeal. Any big overhaul, however, can be done last as this is not essential. Doing simple work yourself can keep costs down, or ask a friend or relative to help you out, in exchange for something you can do for them. Maybe you can do their shopping, teach them IT skills or make them a home-cooked meal in return. If you have more complicated tasks to do, a gardener can be worth their weight in gold.
So here are 8 tips on how to renovate a house on a budget. Do you have any tips?
*Collaborative post
Kitchens can be revamped fairly easily. If your kitchen units are in good condition you can just paint the doors or replace them without all the fuss of stripping out the old kitchen and putting in a new one. Getting new lights can also make a difference and spotlights can add extra lighting for preparation or cooking areas. If your kitchen is small, and free-standing furniture can provide extra storage space, check out IKEA for well-priced kitchen furniture.
7. Don't forget the roof
Roof repairs are costly so it's worth repairing any damage as opposed to replacing it. This isn't the time to do it yourself if you are not trained in this area. As well as the safety issue, you don't want a repair that goes wrong, that can let water in, so this is one area you definitely need to hire the best you can afford. Recommendations are important so ask around in your local area.
8. Do the garden last
Basics can be done at any time. Tidy up the garden, get rid of dead plants and weeds, mow the lawn and get rid of any rubbish. This will give curb appeal. Any big overhaul, however, can be done last as this is not essential. Doing simple work yourself can keep costs down, or ask a friend or relative to help you out, in exchange for something you can do for them. Maybe you can do their shopping, teach them IT skills or make them a home-cooked meal in return. If you have more complicated tasks to do, a gardener can be worth their weight in gold.
So here are 8 tips on how to renovate a house on a budget. Do you have any tips?
*Collaborative post
If you are renovating a house on a budget you could consider buying a second hand kitchen. You can get lovely ones for cheaper than if they are new x
ReplyDeleteWe're going to be house hunting at the end of next year and will hopefully be renovating so most of these I've thought of, but the garden is a good point, this can be done at a later date x
ReplyDeleteRenovating a house does look like hatd work. Guess it is possible to do it on a budget
ReplyDeleteReally great tips that are useful too. I despise renovating houses, yet that's what I always seem to end up doing! lol
ReplyDeleteFantastic tips. We still need to finish off renovating our kitchen and garden. We are leaving the garden last!
ReplyDeleteThese are all great tips. I’ve (almost) fully renovated our house. My biggest tip is you can probably do more yourself than you imagine if you have a go and buying tools often works out cheaper / the same price as hiring them for a week.
ReplyDeleteGreat tips, we're looking for our perfect property at the moment and I really want somewhere we can renovate the loft.
ReplyDelete