5 MISTAKES PEOPLE MAKE WHEN UNDERTAKING ALTERATIONS TO THEIR HOUSE
1) Let budget restrict their vision - now I am not saying you should let
your imagination run wild, but in the first instance, it is better to think of
all the things you want or don't like about your house before establishing
a budget. At least that way I know how you are feeling, and your ultimate
dream. You never know, it may not be as unaffordable as you think!
2) Choose the wrong designer - It is crucial that you pick the designer
that you feel is the best match for you. This could be different for
everybody. What’s right for one person is not necessarily the best
choice for another. Engaging the wrong designer can lead to frustration,
miscommunication and wasted time and money in the end.
3) Choose design fees over value/service - As with most professions,
there can be a wide range of fees when it come to architectural design.
More important than the cost of the fees, is the value and service the
designer is going to provide. Given that the design fees are a small
proportion compared to the construction cost, it pays to spend a bit more
now to get the best service, drawings and documentation you can to
save you money in the long run.
4) Go for the cheapest solution to the problem - We've all seen it - the
house that has the obvious tack on. Perhaps an unsightly lean-to roof,
or an ugly change of wall cladding. This can actually devalue the house
rather than adding value. True, it may provide the extra space or fulfil
an immediate need, but in the long run it’s not a good idea. If possible
always go for design and materials to match the existing house. If well
done it can greatly increase the value of the house, beyond its initial
cost.
5) Do nothing! There is so much talk and opinion in the media about
the economy and the unsettled state of the building industry in New
Zealand. What a great time to undertake those alterations! Tradesman
are plentiful and crying out for work with very competitive rates to boot.
I can put you in contact with some of those people and having worked
with them before, I can vouch for good service and a good job. Don’t let
too much thinking and procrastination put you off starting the journey to
improving your lifestyle. It’s like anything – if you think about something
too much you will never end up doing it. You never know – your dream
Intelligent Design was started 4 years ago to cater for those people
who want quality drawings at an affordable price. We have undertaken
everything from work valued at $20,000 right through to $1.2 million!
Alterations and new houses are our specialty.
For a free no obligation chat and quote please contact me