Browse Forums General Discussion 1 Feb 11, 2012 12:02 am Hi all, I'm new to renovation, so would really appreciate some help to a few random questions: 1) I've bought a house but is currently rented out. I'm hoping to take it back at some stage to renovate and stay in it. I'm just wondering how much scoping of the renovation can be done, while the house is still rented out (assume I can't get access to it)? I've only got photos and current plans. Would this be enough for an architect to start work on? If a lot of the renovation can be scoped out, once I have the house back, I can start the renovation work asap to save time & cost. 2) The house was renovated a few years ago by the previous owner but I'm hoping to make some major changes, such as converting it to an open plan living. This will involve moving the kitchen, living room and at least one of the rooms. Is it possible to re-use some of the items, such as the kitchen cabinets, built-in-wardrobes, etc? 3) How can I make sure I do not overcapitalise on the renovation? Would the architect be the best person to tell me that? Hope my questions make sense. Thank you. Re: Newbie to renovation - random questions 2Feb 11, 2012 1:34 am Architects will be able to draw plans from what you have, sorting out their over-sights once work began -- naturally at your cost. With major works as you have described, it would be a brave building contractor who would quote on photos and plans alone, or alternatively they could load their quote sufficiently for any unforseens. It will depend on what these people prefer. Open plan design will require removal of interior walls that may be load bearing which will require strutting beams etc to be installed in the roof, or atop the walls. Open plan fans always amuse me when complaining later about heating/cooling the large areas. Re-using cupboards etc will depend on how carefully they are removed, as a lot of them are nailed back there may be some damage when removing I guess you are in a hurry to do complete this work as you will be living among the construction which will be a PITA for contractors having to clean up and restore services etc each day to make it safe. Hopefully you wont have kids wandering around while this work is going on? Arfur Re: Newbie to renovation - random questions 3Feb 11, 2012 9:19 am Thanks for the reply, Uncle Arfur. If I'm not living in the house while renovation is being done, would that generally speed up the process? No kids running around. Has anyone have any experience in recycling original items (such as cupboards) in their renovation? Would like to hear how and what was done? Does anyone have a ballpark figure on how much it cost and how long it might take for: a) open plan conversion b) adding a new 2nd storey. Just as a background, the house that I've is a 1920s California bungalow. It's a lovely lawn but cannot be viewed from the kitchen or living room, which is a shame. Hence, the thot of open plan conversion. Re: Newbie to renovation - random questions 4Feb 11, 2012 10:09 am Quote: If I'm not living in the house while renovation is being done, would that generally speed up the process? No kids running around. Yes, I remember from experience what a PITA it was cleaning up and spreading drop sheets everywhere etc and dodging a heap of kids who wanted to play where we were Anyone giving a ballpark figures I suspect would be guessing without seeing what you require. Best wait until you get quotes. Just so the quotes dont send you to an early grave with shock, try and have alternate less grandiose ideas or work done in stages that you can afford. Good luck Arfur Re: Newbie to renovation - random questions 5Feb 11, 2012 4:31 pm You could ask for entry to take photos (for insurance?) or a video would be good. You could then get ideas for what's feasible. Not exact of course but it's a start. I've moved built in wardrobes. No problem. I've also moved a kitchen. Most are modular so just move the cabinets and get a new benchtop. If it's old with ugly doors sometimes it's easier to get a new one. They are not that expensive. Work out your reno costs and new value cost. That will tell you whether it's worth it. If you put this in the Home renovation section you might get more answers. I rarely read this section. Re: Newbie to renovation - random questions 6Feb 11, 2012 8:46 pm Thanks again, Uncle Arfur. You've been a great help. BTW, what's PITA stands for? Thanks, travelbug... great to hear that kitchen & cabinets can be moved. I'll start a new thread in the Home renovation. a building inspector should be able to tell you about any major problems but we need a floor plan with dimensions to clarify options for extra bedrooms ... sometime an… 1 8715 Hello Josh, This is Irving from PRIMA, we are a manufacturer of the staircase, railings, kitchen cabinets, windows, doors from China. If you have requirement to purchase… 0 5419 Coming back to your old stomping grounds, huh? Renovations on a budget can be quite the journey. It's like giving your house a new lease on life. The twist of not knowing… 1 3457 |