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Building Contractors
Building Contractors
Alfresco dining ideas for your outdoor area
The combination of a less formal society and an almost year-round temperate climate means that in Australia, alfresco dining has become more popular than ever.
Buying off the plan properties
Buying a home off the plan, whether it's an apartment or a house-and-land package, can be a great option because of the stamp duty savings and the fact that you have the opportunity to save money while your house is being built.
Cheap renovation ideas
Renovations can be time consuming and eat up a lot of your money, which is why it's vital to stick to a renovation budget. Follow our guide on how you can create a cost-effective renovation for the home.
Developing a sustainable home design
Energy efficiency and sustainable living were the key goals for landowners building a new home on French Island, Victoria.
Find a house builder
Unless you consider yourself an expert in renovations and building, you may find it daunting to even consider the array of builders and tradies - let alone choose one to entrust with the job of building your new home!
Building and planning permits explained
Before commencing a renovation or extension on your property, there are a number of statutory requirements that must be fulfilled. Depending on the work being undertaken, you may need a planning permit and or building permit. Make sure you understand your obligations before starting any work, as large fines can be imposed if the correct permits are not obtained.
Do renovations always add value, and how can I ensure I do?
A well-planned renovation is almost guaranteed to add value to your home or property, whereas one that is undertaken without forethought can end up being a waste of money. Keep in mind the following guidelines before you start renovating and you will have a much better chance of turning a profit.
How to keep your pets safe during a renovation
Renovating your home can be a stressful time for everyone involved, even the family pet. There are a few precautions you can take to make this process as pain free as possible for your dog, cat, fish or budgie.
Typical costs associated with engaging a builder
Engaging a builder for a renovation or extension is rarely a cheap exercise. Costs will vary widely according to the type of work to be done, the materials used, and the intricacy of the work involved. It is always advisable to get three or more quotes when employing a builder as prices can vary widely, as much as 50% or more.
What kind of warranty can I expect on renovations?
Carrying out a renovation or addition to your property is a big investment both personally and financially. Naturally, you will want to know what your rights are when it comes to faulty materials and poor workmanship.
Cost blow-outs and unexpected costs – how to minimize them
Renovating or adding onto your home is never a cheap exercise. However, there are a few simple things you can do before you start to minimise cost blow-outs and unexpected extras.
Renovations and second hand materials
Renovating or adding an extension is seldom a cheap process, but using second hand materials may help to keep your costs down, save the forests and give your home a quirky character. When choosing a construction company, make sure they are aware that you wish to use recycled materials so that they can factor this into your quote.
Tips to managing your budget during renovations
Renovating or adding to your home can increase its resale value or give your family the extra room it needs for comfort, but it can also be fraught with financial pitfalls if the project isn’t approached in an organised manner. Setting a budget and sticking to it is one of the most difficult tasks involved. Fortunately, with some good planning and research this can be avoided.
Extending my house – up, down, sideways – which way should I go?
As your family increases or older relatives need care, you may decide to extend your current home rather than move elsewhere. Extending your home is a major investment and deciding whether it is best to go up, down or sideways isn’t always clear. There are several things to consider when weighing up your options.
Building a separate garage or granny flat – things to consider
Adding a separate garage or granny flat to your home can add value and also provide extra space for growing families, noisy teenagers and older relatives. However, before you undertake construction there are a few things you will need to consider.
