5 Renovation Traps You Won't Want to Fall Into

Renovation Trap #1: Buying a Lemon

The classic way for Kiwis to climb the property ladder is to start with a doer-upperer and add value by restoring it to its former glory or modernise it to appeal to buyers. But unlike building a new home, renovation projects do not start with a blank sheet of paper and almost always pose challenges which haven’t been anticipated by inexperienced home improvers. Expensive rot and structural problems, for example. 

SOLUTION: Make sure you get a comprehensive house inspection before you buy, and involve your local Pzazz Building owner from the beginning. He or she will give you advice and guidance that will add value and could save you thousands.

Renovation Trap #2: Biting off more than you can chew

We blame unrealistic 'reality' shows like The Block, but we find that homeowners perpetually under-estimate the cost of renovations – and are shocked when presented with the true cost of materials and labour. The problem with that is that the homeowners can run out of money before the renovation is finished – leaving them with a house they don’t really want to live in and can’t sell.

SOLUTION: It would pay to invite your local Pzazz Builder to view any house you're seriously considering buying before you buy it. That way, you will be able to discuss your improvement ideas and obtain ballpark prices before you make your decision.

Renovation Trap #3: Not really knowing what you're getting

One of the difficulties in renovating a home is that most of us don't have the ability to envision what the project is going to look like when it's completed. Or alternatively, you may have a clear picture in your head of what your new room is going to look like, but no idea how to achieve it. 

SOLUTION: As well as letting you know what's possible, Pzazz Building offers the unique 3D Design Service, enabling you to design and visualise your project before construction even starts!

Renovation Trap #4: Overcapitilising

You may think that in New Zealand's buoyant property market that it's impossible to overcapitalise – that is, to spend more on your renovation than is really justified and, in many cases, that you will get back in the increased value of your home. 

SOLUTION: Some types of renovation are worth more than others in terms of the value they add, but that of course depends on the house, the neighbourhood and the market. We recommend you talk to your local Pzazz Builder about the renovations which have been adding most value in your area.

Renovation Trap #5: Blowing the budget

Unfortunately, it's easy to blow your budget when you're renovating because you never know until you start your project what you're going to find hidden behind walls and under floors. Even more common is homeowners changing their minds about what they want halfway through a project.

SOLUTION: Pzazz Building protect you from cost over-runs in three ways. 1. Our 3D Design Service means you'll know what you're getting upfront, so there will be no surprises halfway through construction. 2. We will take care of everything for you, including managing all the tradespeople required to complete your renovation. 3. We will provide you with clear pricing for the whole project so there will be no surprises at the end!

Keen to get in touch to bring Pzazz aboard your renovation journey?

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