Tips for renovating your home

Follow our tips to make the whole process of renovating your home a little easier

Are you renovating to sell or stay?

One of the first things to get clear on is why you’re renovating. Are you hoping to increase the resale value of your home or are you creating a space you’ll enjoy for years to come? Your answer shapes every decision, from layout choices to material selections.

If you’re renovating to sell, keep your focus on high-impact, cost-effective improvements that will appeal to the widest group of buyers. Kitchens, bathrooms and street appeal usually give the best return on investment. A little homework goes a long way here, so talk to a good real estate agent and check out similar homes in your neighbourhood to make sure every dollar is well spent and you avoid overcapitalising.

If you’re staying put, you have more freedom to personalise the design. Higher-end finishes, layout changes and features that suit your lifestyle can all be worth the investment. Even if you spend a bit more upfront, you’ll be rewarded with a home that feels comfortable, functional and truly yours.

What's the best way to plan a home renovation?

A successful renovation starts long before construction begins. Good planning helps you stay on budget, avoid delays and feel confident in your decisions. Before you start:

• Research materials, layouts and finishes

• Create Pinterest boards or mood boards to explore styles and visualise ideas

• Set a realistic timeline and budget

• Talk to your builder early so they can help guide your planning

Preparation helps your builder coordinate subtrades and keep your project moving without unnecessary stressand delays. At Qualitas Builders, we support homeowners through every stage so your renovation runs on time and on budget.

Which renovation decisions should be made before starting?

It’s amazing how much smoother a renovation runs when the big decisions are nailed down early. Even small choices can cause delays if they’re left too late, so it pays to tick off the essentials early. Make decisions about things like:

• Paint colours

• Tiles and benchtops

• Tapware and fittings

• Lighting and cabinetry

Once these selections are locked in, everything else becomes easier. Materials can be ordered on time, your builder can keep momentum on site and the finished result will look cohesive and well considered. It’s one of the simplest ways to keep your renovation moving without unnecessary holdups and stress.

Do I need to move out during a home renovation?

Most people stay in their home throughout the renovation to avoid extra costs. That said, living on a building site can be tiring, especially during bigger projects. Even taking a short break away can make a big difference. If you’re staying on site:

• Set up a clean, comfortable retreat area

• Keep essential areas accessible or create a temporary kitchen

• Plan meals, laundry and routines around the work schedule

• Consider your pets; construction noise and strangers can be stressful

A bit of organisation will help you stay sane while the transformation takes place.

How do I minimise stress during a renovation?

Renovations come with plenty of moving parts, but there are ways to keep things manageable.

• Choose a reputable, licensed builder you trust

• Communicate regularly with your builder

• Stick to your plan and make decisions quickly

• Have a contingency fund for unexpected costs

At Qualitas Builders, every project is backed by the Halo 10-Year Residential Guarantee, giving peace of mind for both homeowners and future buyers.

Ready to start your renovation?

If you want a result that feels effortless and adds real value, we’re here to help. Get in touch with Qualitas Builders and let’s bring your renovation ideas to life.