You’d be surprised – the best time to start planning a renovation is actually a year before collecting your house keys.
Why so early? Like all major decisions in life, it pays to think carefully and ahead. And creating a dream home that you’ll have to live in for years? We think that’s a big decision that’ll need all the time it can get. So, if you’re still unsure of when and what to look out for in a renovation process, check out our step-by-step timeline guide below to help you get started!
It might feel like a long way to go, but don’t just sit around awaiting your keys! Now’s the perfect time to picture your dream home, and research on the various styles or features you’d like in your new abode.
12 MONTHS BEFORE COLLECTING KEYS
Create A Mood Board
Start looking around for interior design looks that strike your interest, and create a mood board to save them. There are some interior portals, such as Qanvast, HomeTrust, The Interior Portal etc., allow you easily create boards, allowing you to browse and save thousands of the local home projects.
You can even share your boards with others, which will be really convenient if you’d like to discuss ideas with friends or family!
Research On Your Budget
Figuring out a budget that you’ll be comfortable with in advance will give you enough time to start saving up, or consider your financing options. You can easily get information about costing on the listed projects, which include renovation costs and breakdowns of works done to the space.
3-4 MONTHS BEFORE COLLECTING KEYS
At this point, you should have more or less decided on:
- the decor theme
- some basic features you’d like to work on (e.g. structural works, tiling, etc.)
- your ideal budget, with a comfortable range to work with.
It’s time to find the suitable professional for the job. Here begins the hunt for the perfect interior designer!
Finding An ID
Not sure where to start? We can help – based on your style and budget, we can match you up with our professional Interior Designers, totally free. Simply sit back and arrange non obligatory appointment with our Interior Designers with just 1 click away!
Meeting An ID
You are strongly advised to visit our showroom and discuss details with the IDs or it is also possible to arrange a meet up at your convenience. Don’t forget to prepare these essentials, so the IDs will have something to work with:
- Your floor plan
- Your mood board (physical or online)
- Your expected renovation time frame (e.g. when to start renovation, when to move in, etc.), so the IDs can work according to your schedule.
Example of Floor Plan
1 MONTH BEFORE COLLECTING KEYS
The big day is looming ahead! After gathering information about quotations and ideas from the various IDs, you’ll need to engage one that you are most comfortable with, in terms of pricing, design and chemistry (that’s really important!).
First Steps To Working With An ID
After shaking hands, what’s next? Now’s the right time to discuss what your must haves and no-nos in this renovation. Whether it’s a feature wall, open-concept communal area or a walk-in wardrobe, let your ID know so he/she can fit it to the space plan.
KEYS COLLECTION DAY
Woohoo! It’s the day of your key collection and you’re obviously excited. But don’t look at your new home with rose tinted lenses just yet – make sure everything is in the right place!
Check For Defects
Bring along the defects list provided by HDB/developer, and a lock to secure your home. You will need a seasoned, meticulous eye for this, so it would be better to invite your ID along to help spot anything amiss and take measurements!
Tools to bring
Here are some useful tools to have while combing through your new house for any defects:
- Tape and markers: Use masking tape to indicate defects, and markers to write down a description of the problem. You could also come up with a colour scheme: red marker for serious defects and yellow for minor ones which will let the HDB contractors know which problems to focus on.
- Coins or marbles: Detect hollow spots on floor tiles by tapping on it using a coin or marble.
- LED Plug-in light: To make sure that all electrical sockets are functional.
- Spirit level: To make sure that doors and windows are properly aligned and upright.
- Camera: To have your own visual documentation of any reported defects.
You could also seek further assistance and advice from Building Service Centres.
Set Up Your Basic Utilities
It’s really important to get the basics working before embarking on a renovation. In order to renovate, workers will need electricity for their tools and water for washing grime or dirt – so don’t leave them hanging!
Apply for a utilities account with SP Services to activate the water, electricity, gas and waste collection services, soon after collecting your keys.
Go Shopping!
Now that you’ve gotten a physical feel of your space, its also a good time to shop around with your ID for some key elements, such as your flooring, feature wall finishings, kitchen appliances and bathroom fittings.
DURING RENOVATION
After months of planning and discussion, it sure is a big relief and joy to see your dream home coming together. That doesn’t mean you can take the back seat and let the magic miraculously happen yet! Here are some things to take note when managing a renovation.
Confirm The Renovation Schedule
While renovations for BTOs usually take about 8 – 10 weeks, and resale 12 – 14 weeks, its best to clarify the schedule with your ID to ensure a smooth moving process. Do note that slight delays are common, so be prepared to extend any living arrangements whilst renovating!
Keep Your Home Safe
There’ll be many people coming in and out of your house – contractors, builders, electricians and the like. Remember not to leave any valuable items lying around, and install a lock that only those overseeing the renovation – such as your ID – can access.
Keep Tabs On Progress
Trust your ID to provide you with timely updates on your renovation, but do make an effort to drop by at least once a week! Make sure works are done to plan, and inform your ID if you find anything unsatisfactory or defective.
AFTER RENOVATION
The big reveal is finally here! All you’ve got to do is put the finishing touches – arrange for furniture and other decor accents to be delivered to your home. One last thing, though:
Do A Final Check
Do a run over with details like power points, or the swing of hinges, and be sure to highlight any problem areas that need rectification.
Housewarming Party!
Have everything down pat? Kick back and pop some champagne – plan for your housewarming party to show off your gorgeous home to everyone!
Life’s definitely easier when you have a handy timeline to guide you in your renovation. In the midst of waiting for your house keys, and looking for an ID to create your dream home? Schedule a FREE non-obligation appointment with us today via the link here: https://9creation.com.sg/contact-us/
