How to SAVE on a reno

Follow this savvy advice to avoid a budget blow-out

THE RIGHT PEOPLE FOR THE JOB

Just as you spend time researching and selecting the right materials and designs, according to Effie Zahos in her new book, Ditch the Debt and Get

Rich (Are Media, $29.99), it’s essential to choose the right tradespeople. “Don’t just go for the lowest bid and make sure you check references,” writes Effie.

CONSIDER COSMETIC UPDATES Kitchen cupboards looking a bit dated? No need to rip them out if they’re in good shape – simply replace (or paint) the doors and get new handles. Your tiles look a little last century? Don’t replace them, paint them! It’s considerably cheaper. Check out Dulux Renovation paints for tiles, benchtops and cabinets.

DON’T MOVE THE PLUMBING

A survey by Aussie business Brighte shows 42% of families are planning home upgrades this year, with 15% eyeing off the kitchen and 14% the bathroom. If that’s you, try to keep the same footprint in your rooms, as moving plumbed-in fixtures is costly. Same goes in the laundry. In short, stick to your current layout to save!