In the process of buying a place where the entire place needs to be redone including bathroom, kitchen, flooring, central heating and general deco. Any clever ways to save money on doing the place up. I would like to rent it out if I get a job elsewhere....
2006-10-22 11:49:23 · 5 answers · asked by prabo 1 in Home & Garden ➔ Other - Home & Garden
The most obvious way to keep costs down is to do as much of the work as you can yourself. Keep an eye out in the 'for sale' sections of the local papers and shops, you can often pick up good kitchen units and bathroom suites at bargain prices, same goes for cookers etc, in fact just about everything including the kitchen sink.
If you have a spare room, how about renting it out to someone thats a bit of a nifty decorator or handyman/woman and give them a few months rent free in return for hard labour. If you did this using the 'rent a room' scheme, you dont pay tax up to a limit on the income and there are no regulations to abide by.
Often baths can be reclaimed by using a scourer designed for non-stick pans and a regular bathroom cleaner and giving them a good scrub, then if needs be change only the taps to update it. Grubby grouting on tiles can be revived by spraying with a bleach solution. Do you have wooden floors that can be sanded and polished instead of being covered? Also, if you have kitchen units that are just a bit 'done' looking, you can usually just change the doors - much cheaper and easier than a full new kitchen.
Look out for 'end of line' bargains in wallpaper, special offers on paint and remnants of carpets - and keep an open mind on colours best idea is play safe and go for neutral ones especially if your going to be renting, you want walls than can quickly be repainted and freshened up when new tenants move in. But do make sure you get enough to complete the job, cos you can't go back for more. Again from a renting point of view, laminate floors are harder for tenants to damage than carpet, and to brighten it up for yourself, chuck down a couple of rugs. I could go on forever but its time for bed - good luck with all your answers, hope you save a packet.
Oh just remembered - check around to see if there are any grants available, often y0u get assistance with insulating and putting in central heating if there is none. You dont necessarily have to be on a low income or over 65 to qualify.
2006-10-22 12:28:05 · answer #1 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
most people I know who have done this, certainly in the UK, seem to have the most problems with the contractors so I would suggest you use anyone you know or people that come highly recommended for the skilled work ie plumbers, carpenters, electricians etc. I would also try & pin them down on exactly how much stuff will cost, how long it will take etc - there are many great guys out there but also some lousy ones, cheapest isn't always best, ask your neighbours/anyone who lives in the area.
As for flooring/painting off you go to B&Q & 'do it yourself' this depends on your DIY knowledge, spare time & enthusiasm - I painted my 1 bed flat once & it nearly killed me, it wasn't hard technically & looked OK but it took me forever & I vowed, never again - there is a good reason why people make a living from painting etc, it's bloomin' hard work !!!
2006-10-22 12:10:16 · answer #2 · answered by Mari C 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Anyway to save money would really be to do most of the work yourself. However this isn't always the best way! Hire professionals and get the job done well. For new kitchens and bathrooms check online for special discounts and promotions.
2006-10-22 11:59:00 · answer #3 · answered by Purple 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Don't spend a lot of money on bathroom or kitchen or furniture if you are going to rent it out. People do not respect things when they rent...take a look in your local newspaper for second-hand furniture. (You can get modern basic kitchens/bathrooms at B&Q. for a reasonable price.) If possible do as much of the work yourself, and get friends to help.
2006-10-22 12:25:12 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
can be a money pit.
get professional estimates and inspection and see where you can save.
home depot and Lowe's have classes and other do it yourself info.
HUD section8 always has more people than homes if its reasonable and in good condition long term renters are always there and HUD pays 70% or more if its accessible.
and there may be low interest or other funds to make some parts accessible..
be nice to homeless cripples and win win
www.hud.gov
office of disability policy in wdc. may have some info
2006-10-22 12:02:06 · answer #5 · answered by homelessinorangecounty 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋