After years of working in construction, there’s one thing we’ve learned at Preston Building – early planning is everything. Whether it’s a small renovation or a large-scale home project, getting a head start on the planning process can save time, money, and a lot of headaches down the road.
So, let’s break down the basics of residential renovation planning. Firstly, to ensure you have a clear idea of the project at hand, ask yourself these important questions:
Why are you renovating? This is the question that can shape your entire renovation journey. Are you doing it to improve your own living space, or to boost the value before selling? Knowing your "why" will help guide your decisions and keep your goals clear throughout the process.
How much can you (realistically) afford to spend? This is probably the most critical question, as it will define the scope of your renovation. Make sure you’ve accounted for a buffer – unexpected costs always come up when renovating and having some breathing room can save a lot of stress.
What’s your style? It’s good to know what design style speaks to you. Whether it’s modern, or classical, being clear about your style from the start will help you stay true to your vision throughout the renovation. This clarity will also keep your choices aligned and prevent you from straying off brief as you get inspired by new ideas.
How important is sustainability to you? Think about how much value you place on sustainable practices in your renovation. Whether it’s using eco-friendly materials, energy-efficient appliances, or implementing water-saving fixtures, prioritising sustainability can not only benefit the environment but also enhance the long-term value of your home.
The Renovation Planning Process
Once you’ve answered these key questions, you can dive deeper into the residential renovation planning process. Your next steps should include:
- Set a timeline
Firstly, it’s time to set out a realistic timeline for the project. Keep in mind that renovations often take longer than expected, so it's important to stay flexible. - Finalise your ideas and designs
Lock in your design and collaborate with your designer or architect if needed. Having everything set in stone early will help avoid delays and keep things moving smoothly. - Coordinating your building professionals:
You have two main options for coordinating the trades you need for your renovation: hiring each professional individually or letting Preston Building manage the entire process for you.- You get the flexibility to choose who fits your budget and vision. Just keep in mind, this requires careful coordination and communication to make sure everyone stays on the same page.
- As Gold Coast Builders, working from Ballina to Yatala, we manage the whole process for you. From coordinating with trusted tradespeople to managing the schedule, communication, and quality control, we’ve got it covered. You get to focus on the exciting parts of your project without the headache of managing multiple contractors
- Plan for the unexpected (impossible we know):
Even with the best planning, things don’t always go exactly as expected. Be prepared for surprises by having a contingency plan and some budget flexibility.
Why plan your renovation early
By planning early, you’ll have plenty of time to fine-tune every detail of your Gold Coast renovation and make the best decisions without feeling rushed. You can gather inspiration, chat with the right professionals, and be fully prepared to kick things off when the time comes. At Preston Building, we believe that good planning is the key to a successful renovation, and we’re here to help guide you through every step of the process.