The festive season is fast approaching and so too is the deadline for starting last-minute home renovations before the endless run of summer soirees. However according to Naomi Findlay from Beaumont Tiles, Australian homeowners are often overwhelmed with their renovation plans and find it difficult to begin.
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“Whether it’s finances, time, organisation or simply not knowing where to start, it’s easy for DIYers to find themselves stumped before they even start their renovation,” she said. “The lead time for DIY renovations can range from 8 to 12 weeks, so it’s time to get moving on your project.”
Thankfully, whether you’re revamping the bathroom or getting the poolside ready, there’s still enough time to complete your renovations before the festive rush.
Get planning. Make a plan before starting any renovation. “Having a vision of the full extent of the renovation with goals of how long you want it to take, how you want it to look and how much you are willing to spend will really help quicken the process and help you hit that Christmas deadline,” says Naomi. “If you know you only have a certain amount of days until the festive season kicks off, prioritise what you want to get done and then stick to it.”
Timing is key. The rooms that have the most extended lead times from the planning phase to the finish are the kitchen and bathroom, so these should be planned first, and your trades should be lined up. “Having everything you need finalised before you start will make the execution phase as short as possible, which, when you’re on a tight time frame, is a must,” says Naomi.
Speak to experts. There is an endless amount of retail support for home renovators, and Naomi advises you use it. “Anything can be a DIY project with the right support,” she says. “If you’re attempting to tile a kitchen splashback or bathroom feature, speak to the experts in store and get advice from them.”
Consider financing options. A great way of ticking DIY projects off your wishlist in the lead up to Christmas is by leveraging the finance options offered by retailers. While it’s great to have the money upfront for your renovation, it’s not always realistic, so research your best finance solution. “Look at your local suppliers and ask if they have any financing options available,” says Naomi. “Sometimes all you need is six or 12 months grace to get by.”
Find referrals. “Finding suitable tradespeople can often be a challenge for even the most experienced of renovators,” says Naomi. “Speak with friends, colleagues, and trusted retailers to find out who they’ve used in the past.”