1. Find Renovators that can Work within your Budget
This is the most important step and one which most homeowners are unaware of.
Some Renovators have minimum budget requirements while others prefer to work with a smaller budget. As such, those who perceive your budget to be too low often try their luck by jacking up their quotations.
This is usually not stated upfront as Renovators may not want to lose the opportunity to meet or persuade you. Renovators also tend to be indirect when it comes to rejecting homeowners.
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How do I meet Specific Renovators who can work within my budget? Use HomeMatch, itâs free! đ This may come across as a shameless namedrop but⊠weâre super confident about our product.
Presently, we are the only platform who works with and know the requirements of individual Renovators from CaseTrust-accredited firms. This makes us ultra capable of finding specific Renovators who can meet your specific needs.
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2. Know which aspects are the Costliest and Prioritise accordingly
Based on our analysis, the most expensive components of most renovations are carpentry (kitchen cabinets, wardrobe etc.), masonry works (tiling, reconfiguration), and finishing touches (Painting, Windows, Doors, Bathroom fittings, False Ceilings, Lighting etc.).
Knowing this, you can prioritise on whatâs necessary. Focus on pressing features like kitchen cabinets, bathroom works, and flooring.
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3. Consider Cheaper Alternatives
Most carpentry features are likely optional and can be substituted with off-the-shelf items which are ~20% more affordable in general e.g. built-in tv-consoles, shoe rack, wardrobes.
You can also seek your IDsâ advice on areas you can save costs on without over compromising on quality e.g. vinyl flooring is cheaper and yet often more durable.
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4. Look for Renovation Packages
Some Interior Firms offer affordable renovation packages that helps homeowners move in at a relatively low cost. However, thereâs little room for customisation and you shouldnât expect top-notch materials.
â Warning: Bad actors might initially lure you into signing a low-cost package; then⊠jack up prices by surfacing excluded items during the renovation e.g. omission of costs such as dismantling, manpower, and, additional materials etc.
If youâre considering renovation packages, read about the pros and cons here.
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5. Opt for Main Contractor Services
If you only require straightforward works that doesnât involve design expertise e.g. simple kitchen and toilet works, you might be able to save on the design fees by opting for main contractor services only (only some interior firms might agree to this).
However, do not underestimate the value that an Interior Designer (ID)can bring. Beyond aesthetics, an ID can value-add in areas such as space planning, material selection, pros and cons of different renovation features, cost-saving tips etc.
Find out the differences between an Interior Designer and Main Contractors (+ pros and cons)
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6. Hire your own Sub-Contractors
You can choose to coordinate the entire renovation yourself by hiring Sub-Contractors. But... if youâre uncareful, you might end up spending more or delaying your renovation timeline.
If youâre performing a major renovation, we highly recommend working with IDs or Main Contractors unless: 1) You have the time and expertise to coordinate the renovation yourself and 2) You're super confident with the technicality and sequencing of the renovation process.
If youâre considering outsourcing minor aspects to a Sub-Contractor, we strongly recommend reading up to make an informed decision.
