SAVVY SHOPPING
Who doesn't love a great bargain, right! Factor delivery costs when pricing materials, and shop local where possible -this should reduce the cost of delivery, and gives you a local pickup option to save the delivery fee altogether. If purchasing from Bunnings use your DISCOUNT POWERPASS (if you qualify), or FLYBUYS POINTS.
Other Great Options Include:
AUCTIONS, RECYLED, PRE-LOVED, UPCYCLED MATERIALS, SALES, ACCESS TO LOYALTY POINTS AND/OR DISCOUNTS WHERE YOU SHOP, ONLINE SEARCHES FOR FREE ITEMS (FOR EXAMPLE GUMTREE/FACEBOOK).
AVOID DEBT
Easier said than done, right? If a loan is essential, shop around... avoid loans with early exit fees or accounts with high annual fees.
PROJECT AND BUDGET PLANNING WILL SAVE YOU MONEY
It's easy to let your emotions lead your decision making, but you will need to remain focused on your plan to achieve a project that's both affordable and enjoyable.
OBTAIN PERMITS
This is a critical step in your project planning. Forgetting to get building permits for a home renovation can be a common mistake. However, correcting the mistake can become costly. If your renovation doesn’t meet building codes, a building inspector can make you rip it up and start over.
OBTAIN QUOTES WHICH ARE GOING TO MEET YOUR EXPECTATIONS & GET IT IN WRITING
- When can the contractor commence work?
- What's the ETA on completion? Pending weather conditions, of course!
- Ensure what you discussed and agreed to is put in writing. This might include rubbish removal, supply of appliances, if contracting a painter - will they supply the paint and are you particular on brands? What is the warranty period, who processes the warranty and how do you claim if you ever need to?
- If you're having air-conditioning installed, ensure your installer is replacing all ducts- including the cost of a roofer to remove tiles, should there be challenges gaining access within the roof cavity.
QUALITY SUBSTITUTES
Nothing wrong with saving money whilst achieving the stylish comforts:
WHEN TO AVOID BRAND NAMES. Brands can either gain their reputation based on AMAZING QUALITY, or JUST GOOD MARKETING. It's your job to research the market to establish which is which. What are you willing to spend money on because it will STAND THE TEST OF TIME...and when you know it is a waste, purely in an effort to "KEEP UP WITH THE JONESES".
CONSIDER DIY OPTIONS
BEFORE YOU GO AHEAD WITH A DIY... ENSURE YOU ARE ACTUALLY SAVING MONEY, AND THAT SAVING IS WORTH TH EFFORT. To achieve this determination, you'll need to obtain quotes from professional service providers. In some instances, with consideration to their buying trade rates and existing equipment, a professional service provider can be comparable or cheaper. SO, it's super important to do your homework before you get started.
If you have the time and necessary equipment... consider doing the DEMOLITION work yourself. IMPORTANTLY, wear the appropriate safety gear and ensure you are physically able to carry out the work at hand. ALSO. Consider the cost of rubbish removal once the demotion work is complete, hiring an appropriate vehicle (if you don't have one) to transport rubbish and/or the cost of skip hire...ADDITIONALLY, calculate the amount you are investing by cashing in your vacation time.
PAINTING
You'll want to consider the cost of paint brushes, rollers and paint trays, ladders, protective eyewear, sheeting and cleaning solutions. The time it will take you. If you've never painted before, watch a few DIY videos and equip yourself with information regarding surface preparationh. How to select the right colour. The importance of paint samples. How to calculate the amount of paint you will require (factoring in the dimension of your space, and the number of coats you'll be applying). Familiarise yourself with various types of paints and considerations: indoor/outdoor paints, high sheen, or matt finish, rust resistant (if using on metal surfaces).
FITTINGS
Internal doors, knobs and handles, hanging shelves and installing wardrobe storage
REPAIR WORK
Replacing work laminate on cupboards, replacing grout, waterproofing membrane in bathroom areas
LANDSCAPING
Lay your own turf. Plant from seedlings, off-cuts, or search online for FREE plants (Gumtree, Facebook, Tree Giveaway - NSW Department of Planning and Environment), searching online for free Mulch or just about anything can work in your favour. You'll be surprised at what's available completely FREE, or at a very huge saving to buying from a retail store.
For concrete quote requests and enquiries E: admin@piercretegroup.com.au
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