Brought to by EnergyAustralia.
A busy housing market, reality TV shows and the willingness of people to give DIY a go is prompting Australians to renovate their houses in droves. And never has there been a more inspirational time, with images and ideas readily at your fingertips thanks to social media. Tutorials and inspiration are everywhere.
It doesn’t have to be full house reno’s either, it can just be a time for a makeover. If this is something you are keen to try but don’t know where to start, I have some tips for you today. It’s hard to know what will add value, or what will just be a big fat waste of time…
Before you start, it helps if you have a potential buyer in mind. You’ll need to work out whether to renovate for a busy family or a professional who might only use the space on weekends. If you are not sure what will be sought-after in your area, grab a real estate agent and ask for their opinion.
If you are going to spend money on any part of the house, the kitchen and bathroom are the places to do it. We’ve all heard that saying before; kitchens sell houses. And they do. Everyone needs a kitchen and bathroom in their house and everyone uses them more than any other room.
The costs could vary depending on the job at hand – you could spend anywhere from $3,000 to more than $20,000 – but as this type of work doesn’t need building permits (unless you move the plumbing), it gives you the best return on investment.
Huge cosmetic changes, and with this added value, can be made to kitchens and bathrooms by simply replacing benchtops, repainting cupboards, replacing handles, adding new appliances or installing new tapware, splashbacks or door handles.
Here are some DOs and DON’Ts for a kitchen and bathroom makeover:
KITCHEN
Do… Upgrade appliances to more energy efficient models as these will help you save on your energy bills long-term
Do… Replace benchtops with stone
Do… Replace joinery or paint
Do… Replace lighting
Do… Optimise the layout or add an island bench for more seating
Don’t… Compromise storage because you can never have too much
Don’t… Choose poor surfaces
Don’t… Choose an unusual colour scheme
BATHROOM
Do… Install a new shower screen
Do… Add tiles to the ceiling
Do… Maximise storage options
Don’t… Change the plumbing layout if possible
Don’t… Add bath/shower combo
Don’t… Pick obscure tiles
Today I also have something very cool to share with you! EnergyAustralia is giving YOU the chance to WIN a $30,000 room makeover with ME as your assistant! I will skype with you, come to your house and help you get that room you’ve been longing to makeover in top condition. It’s really easy to enter.
Simply…
Upload a before shot of the offending room. Then tell us in 50 words or less which room needs a $30,000 makeover and why. Be available 21 November and 13 December 2016 for shopping and home styling. Like their Facebook page if you want to stay up to date with the competition and latest news. Full terms and conditions here.
I hope you enter! I’d love to come to your house and help you. This will be so much fun.
[competition closed and winner is K.Brigante of Swan Hill announced on EnergyAustralia’s Facebook page]
♥ KC.
