Are you planning to renovate your Mosman home this year?

Renovating the family home is not only a way to live more comfortably, the money you spend can be instantly recouped thanks to the value it adds to your home.

A major renovation can be a daunting task thanks to all the different steps and people involved. Here’s a detailed breakdown of what you need to do.

Renovate Mosman: Getting Started

As with any major undertaking, you need to plan first. This is the time to make a preliminary budget and decide what you intend to do yourself and what you want to outsource. You should also be scouring the web for a ‘look book’ of ideas. Print things out and keep a scrapbook or use a site like Houzz or Pinterest.

A property consultant, and/or project manager may be a great benefit if you don’t have the time or inclination to do the heavy work yourself. Mosman has a number of local consultants and project managers who specialise in maximising the value of your property and can make strategic recommendations ahead of a renovation project. They can also take over and handle the project on your behalf.

Before you go too far down the design road, speak with your accountant or lending specialist. Make a plan for your budget, figure out where the money is coming from and make sure you will have it to hand as you need it.

Another element is where you will be during the renovations. Does it make sense to move out, so it’s not happening around you? If so, research your options or chat to a local property management company about a short-term rental.

Make contact

Depending on the extent of your renovation, at this stage, you may want to find an architect, draftsperson or home designer to draw up some plans. These experts will talk to you about what you want and can come up with concepts to match.

If you are only doing a kitchen or bathroom reno, a consultant from a local provider can come to you to work on some plans and share ideas.

You also need to book your builders and tradies Many of the best local construction businesses have work scheduled months in advance so get some quotes and confirm their availability. Figure out with your project manager what needs doing and in which order so you have people ready to go on time.

Your real estate agent is an excellent resource in this situation. Talk to them about who they recommend.

Council approval

Once you and your consultant or project manager are happy with the plans, you may need to go to the council. This is the case if you are drastically changing your property, for example adding an extra storey or putting in a pool.

Failing to gain council approval if you need it can lead to lengthy and expensive court processes that are not worth the time or money. Your architect or home designer will ideally have experience in this area and can help with approval applications. Otherwise, you may wish to liaise via a town planning agent who also specialises in working with local councils.

More research

Now you need to look into the nitty gritty of your renovation. This includes where to buy materials and fixtures to renovate.

Mosman has several great places to buy furniture, for example, Carmurge for stunning antiques or Fanuli for a more contemporary feel. Doing your research will ensure you get the best products for what you need.

Again, a consultant can be a godsend. If you have chosen a theme and decided on your budget, they can present you with a shortlist. This way you’re saved from spending weeks trying to find the perfect door handles, only to realise the ones you have chosen can’t be shipped from Italy until 2023.

Beginning works

This is the time for your project manager to shine. If you have chosen to project manage yourself, you will need to know the order of process.

The general rule of thumb is to work from the top down. You don’t want expensive new carpets ruined by paint from the ceiling for example. Generally, too, structural work comes first, followed by things like electrics, tiling and plumbing.

Finishing touches

Once all the major structural work is done and electrics and plumbing are in, it’s time for fixtures. Now is when your team will add taps and light fixtures, final coats of paint and finally carpets or other flooring.

Before you sign off, it is a good idea to have an independent building inspector review the work that has been done. This person will review the workmanship and let you know if they think any jobs are incomplete or faulty. This extra step can save headaches and legal dramas down the track.

Polish and enjoy

The final touches are all yours. Furnish and decorate on your own or recruit an interior stylist to help.

Once everything is done, your newly renovated Mosman home is ready to move in and enjoy. Don’t forget to ask your real estate agent for an updated home valuation.

Jonathon De Brennan & team

Jonathon De Brennan & team

As Principal of De Brennan Property, I'm proud to offer a bespoke real estate service for clients with properties located in and around Mosman. Having repeatedly delivered record results across Sydney’s Lower North Shore, our proven home sale strategies achieve enviable prices for local, expat and international clientele. Your property campaign will be unique and tailored specifically to your property and it's ideal buyer. You'll receive daily contact from me alongside a personalised level of service from my dynamic team.

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