What you need to know about home renovations
When, how and who to call? We're breaking down what you need to know about renovating your home in South Africa.
Home is where the heart is, so it’s only natural to want it to be as comfortable and beautiful as possible.
That’s where home renovations come in.
Whether you’re updating an old space or giving your home a fresh new look, renovations can make a big difference.
Before you start your home makeover, here are a few key things to consider.
When to renovate a property?
The best time to renovate your property depends on your reason for doing so. Why do you want to renovate?
For some, it’s about giving their home a modern refresh, while others need more space or a better layout for improved functionality. In these cases, there’s no urgency – you can take your time and save up, even if it takes a few years.
If you're looking to flip your home 'Property Brothers'-style to boost its market value, renovating could be a smart move, potentially increasing its sale or rental potential.
However, not all renovations add value – some might even decrease it. For example, replacing a bath with a shower might turn away buyers who prefer a bath, especially families with young kids.
READ MORE: Did you know that some renovations actually lower your house's value?!
You might also want to renovate when interest rates drop, as this could be a good time to secure a loan at a lower cost, which will give you more value for your money.
However, taking on debt is a big commitment. If your debt-to-income
ratio is already high or your income is unstable, a loan could put
additional strain on your finances.
It’s important to be realistic about what you can afford – there’s no need to keep up with the Kardashians if it’s not within your means.
No matter when you choose to renovate, timing matters.
If major construction is involved, it’s best to schedule the work during dry months to avoid weather-related delays that could increase costs.
How much do home renovations cost?
The cost of your home renovation will depend on what you want to do and how big (or small) your house is.
According to Building Pros,
the average price for a three bedroom, two bathroom complete house
renovation is between R250,000 and R600,000; this is for all the rooms
including both bathrooms and the kitchen.
Some of their estimated costs per a 2024 report include:
Kitchen: From R45,000 to over R150,000
Bathroom: Between R30,000 and R160,000 for high-end finishes
These two rooms are likely to make up the bulk of your renovation costs. Building Pros says you should also factor the cost per square metre for the following:
Flooring
Walls
Ceilings
Don't forget doors and windows, which can also be costly, depending on what you want.
What planning is needed?
There are many things to consider when carrying out a home renovation. Here's a list of things you need to do thorough research on.
Budget properly
Set a budget for your home renovation and include room for unexpected costs or delays. Then, get multiple quotes to ensure you pay the best price.
It's also a good idea to ask friends and family who have had recent renovations for referrals on reliable service providers.Regulations and permits
While some laws will be the same, municipalities can have different by-laws. Make sure you get the right municipal approvals for your renovations, especially if you are doing extensions and additions.
There may be limits on how long construction can continue before your neighbours (cough, Karen) start complaining.What's your timeline?
This is particularly important if you are renovating your kitchen or bathroom. You don't want to go months without having proper access to these areas.
ALSO READ: Six ways to give your home office a makeover
When to get an architect involved?
The scale of your renovation plays a big role, especially if you're planning a full home makeover or adding extensions.
If you need layout ideas or want to maximise your space, consulting an architect is a smart move. They can bring your vision to life while ensuring clarity and functionality.
An architect will also keep you compliant with local building laws and regulations, preventing legal headaches down the line.
While hiring an architect isn't cheap, it's often worth the investment. They can help you budget wisely and avoid costly mistakes, saving you money in the long run.
Renovating your home can be both exciting and overwhelming. Remember, you can reduce unnecessary stress by doing thorough research before starting your project.
Disclaimer: The Information provided in this article
is not a substitute for professional advice. It is always best to
consult a qualified professional for personalised advice.
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