All Topics / Value Adding / Who can determine if renovation is possible

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  • Profile photo of nathan89nathan89
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    @nathan89
    Join Date: 2011
    Post Count: 13

    Hi all,

    I've been looking at a house in Brisbane that I think has good renovation potential. I have a few ideas for what I think would be good for the house but since this will be my first renovation I am unsure of some aspects. Ie; if I can remove walls or if they are load bearing, if I can add another toilet and if I can turn a laundry into a bathroom. Just wondering if someone out there could tell me who would be the best person to speak to regarding this. I was thinking maybe an architect? Also would they come and look at the property even though I am not the owner yet?

    Thanks for your help

    Nathan

    Profile photo of Scott No MatesScott No Mates
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    @scott-no-mates
    Join Date: 2005
    Post Count: 3,856

    you could probably talk to someone from Archicentre, they have a range of architect who can prepare a roughy for a small cost

    Profile photo of moxi10moxi10
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    @moxi10
    Join Date: 2010
    Post Count: 194

    Any residential builder or half decent carpenter could answer those questions. Getting one there without the likely prospect of compensation for their time would be the tricky part. You might have to consider providing incentive.

    Profile photo of emz03emz03
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    @emz03
    Join Date: 2011
    Post Count: 44

    moxi10 is right, i would go to a builder over an architect, since they would be the one actually doing the work. They will have a good idea of what is possible and costs associated. Definitley will need to provide an incentive for them to look at it – I'd pull out the yellow pages and call around, see what you can come up with.

    Having said that I'd be very reluctant in recommending any structural renovations if this is your first time. I'd stick to cosmetics until you get the hang of it.

    Profile photo of nathan89nathan89
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    @nathan89
    Join Date: 2011
    Post Count: 13

    Thanks for the replies everyone. I found a builder who was happy to come through for $100. Unfortunately what I would have liked to have done wasn't feasible. Think I may need to start off with something a bit simpler to get some experience under my belt. So good having forums like this available though!

    Cheers,

    Nathan

    Profile photo of Kailyn LawKailyn Law
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    @kailyn-law
    Join Date: 2012
    Post Count: 1

    It sounds like this project is a little big for a first timer.  Start with something simple to get your feet wet.  You may make a little less profit but it will be very good experience.

    Profile photo of StreakerStreaker
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    @streaker
    Join Date: 2011
    Post Count: 24

    I agree with Kailyn. If you're new to it all, it'll be a much less stressful venture if you start with something that only involves cosmetic changes – especially if you intend to do some of the work yourself to cut your costs. You'll learn a heck of a lot that will put you in good stead for when you do get hold of something that needs structural work.

    Profile photo of wisepearlwisepearl
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    @wisepearl
    Join Date: 2009
    Post Count: 264

    just an idea but in the future if you’re looking at buying a house and getting a structural report done, go there with the inspector and walk around with them, ask if things could be possible.

    well done on your adventure. $100 was a small outlay, but hopefully you learned from the builder and have more knowledge for next time.

    Good luck!
    Emma

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