Are You Eligible For The $25k Renovation Grant?

by bemedia | Sep 16, 2020 | news

Everything you need to know about the Government home renovation grant

Eligible Australians can apply for a $25,000 home renovation grant under a new Federal Government scheme to re-start the construction sector in the wake of coronavirus. The grant scheme will help around 27,000 people build or substantially renovate their home.

• $680m+ allocated to HomeBuilder
• Open to eligible owner-occupiers and first home buyers
• You can access $25k for home renovations
• Minimum renovation value and other eligibility criteria apply
• Open for contracts signed before Thursday, 31 December 2020
• Grants assessed and implemented by State authorities

In this guide, we’re going to explain HomeBuilder in detail and let you know how to apply for the $25,000 home renovation grant.

HomeBuilder at a glance

HomeBuilder is a time-limited grant for eligible owner-occupiers and new home buyers. By making building and renovating more accessible for thousands of Australians.

You don’t need to build a new home to access HomeBuilder. This is great news for anyone considering substantial home renovations in 2020, with capital and income in line with HomeBuilder’s eligibility criteria.

Why the Government is encouraging construction

Australia’s construction sector:

• Generates over $360bn revenue
• Is our 3^rd largest sector
• Accounts for 9% of national GDP
• Employs more than 1.2m people, mostly small businesses (1-20 employees)

HomeBuilder Eligibility criteria explained

HomeBuilder is open to the thousands of Australian adults who own their own home or are planning to build. To qualify for a home renovation grant, you must meet these personal criteria:

• You are 18 or older
• You are an Australian citizen
• You come under these income caps for the 2018/19 tax year (or later)
  • $125k per year for individuals
  • $200k per year for couples

Do I need to build a new home to access HomeBuilder?

No, the good news is HomeBuilder is also a home renovation grant. However, you are not automatically eligible for any renovation project. Your renovation contract (with a licenced building contractor) must meet these eligibility criteria:

• You sign a home renovation or building contract between 4 June and 31 December 2020
• Home renovation contract is between $150k and $750k
• Property value (before renovation) does not exceed $1.5m
• You are the registered owner on the title and live at the property

Here’s what the Government fact sheet says about substantial renovations:

“To be substantial, the renovation need not involve removal or replacement of foundations, external walls, interior supporting walls, floors, roof or staircases. However, it should improve the accessibility or safety or liveability of the property. How accessibility and liveability requirements are assessed for renovations is a matter for States and Territories.

Examples of works that would not qualify include standalone granny flats, swimming pools, tennis courts, and structures that are not connected to the property (i.e. outdoor spas and saunas, sheds or standalone garages).”

HomeBuilder for home builders

The grant is also open to people building brand new homes, provided they are owner-occupiers and make the property their principal place of residence when it’s finished.

• Investment properties and owner-builders are not eligible
• Same personal and income criteria apply to home builders
• Property value cannot exceed $750,000 (including land)

One of the biggest groups to benefit – alongside home renovators – is first home builders. The HomeBuilder grant does not cancel out concessions like First Home Owners Grant, First Home Loan Deposit Scheme or stamp duty relief for new builds. Instead, it provides an additional $25,000 incentive to build their first home this year.

Why is there a minimum home renovation value?

To receive a home renovation grant, the contract value must be between $150,000 and $750,000. This is only for the renovation work: the property value (up to $1,500,000) is assessed separately. You can only apply for HomeBuilder once per property, and if more than one person is listed on the title you must apply as a couple.

While the Government has not said as much, the understanding is the value cap will prevent investors and landlords from accessing home renovation funds to boost the value of their investment and line their pockets.

HomeBuilder is a construction stimulus package, but it is also designed to help first home builders and owner-occupiers needing renovations to improve their quality of life. While the income limits and minimum home renovation value may preclude some homeowners from undertaking minor renovations, the grant was always intended to supplement significant investment from homeowners who might have been considering delaying their home renovations until 2021.

How can I access the $25k HomeBuilder grant for home renovations?

HomeBuilder is being assessed and distributed by the relevant State or Territory treasury departments. In Western Australia, RevenueWA is accepting HomeBuilder applications for new homes and home renovation grants. You can find more information about the application process and apply for a home renovation grant on the WA State Government website.

Note: RevenueWA is also offering a $20,000 “Building Bonus” grant for new homes on vacant land and off-the-plan builds. This is additional to HomeBuilder and not to be confused with the $25,000 Commonwealth grant.

When are applications assessed?

Applications are currently open with RevenueWA. The office has not specified how long the process takes; however, eligible applications are being backdated to 4 June 2020. That means you should still be able to apply retroactively for an eligible construction or home renovation project already underway.

When should I apply and when will I receive the money?

Applications must be submitted by 31 December 2020 to be considered.

Turnaround time should be quick to stimulate the economy. How long assessment and payment take will depend on the volume of applications received.

What if my eligibility changes?

If circumstances change and you are no longer eligible for HomeBuilder, you need to notify RevenueWA immediately. Providing false or misleading information is a criminal offence, and anyone caught trying to cheat the system may face prosecution.

Accessing HomeBuilder for home renovations

Addstyle Master Builders is Western Australia’s most awarded home renovation builder for a reason. As well as delivering exceptionally high renovation quality standards, we are committed to making the renovation process simple for our clients.

Our team has researched extensively into the HomeBuilder grant, so we can guide you through the application process. If you are considering a home renovation project in 2020 then get in touch for a no-obligation consultation. As well as industry-leading construction advice, we can help you determine if you may be eligible for a home renovation grant.

The 10 Most Common Renovation Mistakes (And How To Avoid Them)

by bemedia | Sep 14, 2020 | news

A renovation guide for stress-free home improvement projects

Home renovations have the potential to dramatically improve liveability and home value in one fell swoop. Thanks to a Federal Government grant you can apply for $25,000 towards a major renovation project, but even a minor overhaul is enough to make a happier home.

The secret to relaxing renos lies in this renovation guide. As Western Australia’s most awarded home renovation builder, with more than 30 years of experience and thousands of home improvements under our toolbelt, we spend every day helping clients to avoid costly – and stressful – renovation mistakes.

1.    Underestimating the cost

Whether you renovate for long-term value or short-term lifestyle benefits, it’s easy to misjudge the cost of a home renovation. Especially because when you search “home renovation costs” online, you quickly find square-metre rates which can be misleading and inaccurate.

How to avoid a renovation cost blowout

• Request a detailed project specification from your builder
• Go through the contract in detail
• Allocate extra funds for non-contracted costs (moving or storage, new furniture and finishings etc)
• Understand your rights and responsibilities for delays and errors
• Stick to Plan A (more on this later)
• Work with a reputable, respected builder

2.    Choosing the wrong builder

Home renovating is a partnership between you and and your builder. You will be in regular communication from the moment you choose to proceed, throughout the project and beyond. If you choose to live in the home throughout the construction, you will likely get to know your builder very well indeed. Take your time choosing a home renovation builder because you need someone you can trust and someone you can communicate with freely.

What to look for when choosing a builder

• Reputation and track record
• Client testimonials
• High-quality completed projects
• Honest communication
• Transparent project inclusions
• High service standards
• Genuine interest in your project
• Organisation and attention to detail

3.    Thinking inside the box

If you’re planning a renovation project, you have probably found a load of templates and renovation guides. Just remember that your home, and your lifestyle, is unique. Use these renovation guides as inspiration but make decisions based on what works for you.

Work with your builder on the unique considerations, strategies, processes and tools that will deliver a high-quality renovation in your home.

4.    Ignoring the home’s character

The biggest tragedy in home renovation is a cookie-cutter approach to remodelling a house with a heart. As a specialist character home renovator, Addstyle Master Builders has a keen eye for the things that make a property truly unique and is expert in complimenting or carefully contrasting original character.

• Decorative cornices and ceilings
• Ceiling heights and floor levels
• Original fireplaces, chimneys or heritage features
• Masonary styles
• Archtraves
• Staircases
• Windows, doors and entryways

Your home doesn’t need to be heritage-listed to take this approach, either. Before you renovate, spend time thinking closely about all the little quirks that make your place feel like home.

5.    Changing the plan part-way

The more you change your mind, the more a home renovation costs. We understand some adjustments are par for the course; but if you remain focussed on the finished product and communicate closely with your builder, you can avoid making costly direction changes.

How to keep confidence during a renovation

• Speak to your builder about any concerns or questions
• Work with a full-service renovator
  • Design
  • Construction and trades
  • Interior design expertise
  • Maintenance and upkeep
• Prioritise your wants and needs
• Don’t rush into a home renovation contract

6.    Skimping on the small stuff

In the face of home renovation costs running into the tens of thousands, it’s tempting to pinch pennies on smaller items:

• Door handles
• Window frames
• Taps and fixtures
• Tiles and floor coverings on sale
• Light fittings and fixtures

Before you save a few dollars on sale tiles or bargain fixtures, think about how they’ll look years from now. In our experience quality is always the best value.

7.    DIY disasters

Another common way to save on home renovation costs is attempting to DIY your way out of a contractor’s bill. With so many DIY renovation guides online, how could you possibly go wrong? Let us count the ways:

• Botched plumbing
• Waterproofing issues
• Leaking taps
• Crooked tiling
• Energy-hungry (or downright dangerous) appliances and lighting
• Damage to walls and floors
• Messy paint edges

There are many more, all adding up to extra cost when you call a licenced tradesperson to fix your DIY mistakes.

8.    Forgetting about the little lifestyle details

Another reason online renovation guides are fraught is they forget to account for individuality. Your lifestyle might require more or less laundry storage than someone else’s, or you might prefer an enclosed alfresco area to an open-air patio.

Addstyle’s experienced home renovation designers take the time to understand you and your family, to create a renovation project with everything you need to live comfortably – and nothing you don’t.

9.    Poor communication

This one should probably be higher in the list because honest two-way communication with your home renovation builder is crucial to reducing stress.

• Raise concerns early
• Trust isn’t implicit; your builder should earn it with good work
• Rectify issues immediately
• Stick to the budget and plan

It all adds up to sleeping easier knowing your builder has your best interests at heart. Communication is the foundation to any mutually beneficial relationship, and a home renovation is no different.

10.  Not trusting your gut

Finally, trust yourself as much as you trust your builder. This can’t be overstated: you are renovating your home, either to live in or grow an investment. That means the final decisions should always be yours, and you should be confident your builder not only hears your desires and concerns but acts on them.

What going with your gut looks like

• Design decisions based on your preferences
• Home renovations to accommodate your lifestyle
• Collaborating with a builder to bring your vision alive
• Big decisions like layout and structure down to the small fixtures and finishes
• Choosing a builder you trust

Perth’s home renovation experts

Addstyle Master Builders is the team you can trust to ditch the template renovation guide and create a personalised, detailed plan that elevates your living standards. Since 1988 we have been helping WA families achieve amazing things by collaborating closely on home renovation projects both large and small.

With a full-service team and a large network of vetted contractors, we are committed to delivering stress-free home renovations on-time, on-budget, and on-brand.

Contact us for a free home renovation consultation and find out how we can guide you through the process with experience and empathy.

Adding a Second Storey To Your Home

by bemedia | Jun 4, 2020 | news

Tips And Guidance For The Ultimate Second Storey Additions

Adding a second storey to your home is a great way to create more space when life grows a little bigger than you expected. You don’t need to move or rebuild from scratch if your home is no longer fit for purpose.

Instead, why not build up? There are loads of good reasons to consider a second storey home addition:

• No need to leave your home or neighbourhood behind
• Add value to your home
• Effectively double your living space without losing any backyard
• Create flexible, separated areas to sleep, work and play
• Capitalise on views

That said, we know second storey renovations are a big decision. Here at Addstyle Master Builders we have been helping Perth families elevate their lifestyle with stylish, affordable home additions for more than 30 years. In that time we have learned a lot about renovating well, and we want to help you make informed decisions to get the most out of your home renovation.

Home Additions: Should You Build Up Or Out?

The main things to consider are:

• Block size and shape
• Council zoning regulations
• Backyard space
• Your budget
• How the existing floor plan will be impacted
• Potential views

Usually your block size and budget will be the most significant factors in deciding whether to add a second storey or extend out. However there are other reasons to build up, like taking advantage of a great view or giving growing kids a separate space. Whatever your goals for a home addition, we’ll work with you to make the process stress-free and simple.

Second Storey Additions: What’s The Process?

Believe it or not, there is a fair bit of work to be done before we can start building your home addition. For starters, we’ll need to know exactly what we’re working with. Plus we need a clear vision for how you want to use the new space.

It’s important not to rush into home renovations – but you don’t want your builder to waste time either. So before you go ahead with a second storey addition, here are some of the things you’ll need to know:

Council regulations

Regulations can be frustrating, but they exist for a reason. Your council may impose height and streetscape regulations particular to your area, on top of general building regulations. If you’re not sure where to turn for information on zoning and restrictions, then give us a call our renovation consultants are across all of these regulations and can advise you accordingly. As part of our service we liaise with councils on your behalf, lobby and write justifications where necessary, and coordinate all approvals.

Design inspiration

On to the fun part! Adding a second storey is far more involved than simply plonking some extra rooms on top of your home. It’s an opportunity to rethink the way you live; your daily flow, future living arrangements, privacy, work and play spaces, places to retreat and recharge…

There are many ways a second storey addition can reinvent your existing home. We’ll go into more detail below, but our biggest tip is to think ahead. You are renovating for the long-term. What could your life look like 5 or 10 years from now?

Finding the right builder

Choosing a builder is a little like choosing a new car. You want to know you are getting the best quality product at a fair price. Plus, safety and aftermarket features factor in:

• Is your builder registered and fully insured?
• Do you clearly understand the budget and cost schedule?
• What materials will the builder be using, including the important floor base?
• Is the builder experienced in second storey additions?
• How long has the building company been operating?

The right home renovation builder is not always the cheapest. Rather, they are the company who clearly understands and supports your vision, can achieve it within your budget, and has the expertise in building and project management to ensure the project runs smoothly.

Designing Your Second Storey Addition

Once you’ve chosen your builder it’s time to get creative. Addstyle Master Builders have a highly experienced team of renovation designers including an in-house architect ready to help you plan your project.

What’s the purpose?

The first step in any home addition project is to be clear on your reasons for renovating. Some of the most common reasons for building a second storey are:

• Making space for a growing family (or aging loved ones)
• Adding value for future resale
• Needing a home office, gym, games room or other new area
• Taking advantage of ocean or landscape views
• Because you can!

Get inspired

Once you know why you are renovating, you can get inspired with how. And we’re not just talking about interior design style. We can work with you to reorient the existing floor plan for maximum space and usability. For example, you might want to keep the master bedroom downstairs and move the kids’ rooms upstairs. Or you might prefer all bedrooms upstairs, giving you more space to get creative downstairs.

Whatever your style, we can offer expert advice and practical solutions to make it a reality. Browse our project gallery to get inspired with the versatility offered by Addstyle’s creative, contemporary designers.

Getting started on your home addition

Launching into your second storey addition is potentially life-changing. When you choose to work with Addstyle Master Builders, you get the benefit of our expertise and insight guiding you every step of the way. We always respect your vision and pull out all the stops to make it a reality. At the same time, our qualified building supervisors keep you updated at every stage of the project.

Ready to get started, or just want to learn more about second storey additions? Contact Addstyle Master Builders for a free complimentary consultation and find out how we can work together to take your lifestyle up a level.

Make Your Alfresco A Cosy Winter Area

by bemedia | May 28, 2020 | news

It’s fair to say Perth is a pretty great place to live all year round. Sure, the balmy summer evenings seem to stretch on forever, but there’s loads to love about winter as well. There’s no feeling more peaceful than watching rain streak down the outside of your patio blinds while you’re comfortable and warm in a cosy alfresco designed for all seasons.

Winter weather is only a couple of months away. While you’re spending more time at home, now is the perfect opportunity to plan an alfresco renovation ready for the cooler months.

If you design it right – and work with the best alfresco builder – you can enjoy the outdoors in comfort all year round, making the most of our famously fantastic climate.

Why Now Is The Time To Plan An Alfresco Renovation

Most of us are getting to know our houses very well as we stay home and respect social distancing guidelines. It might seem like an odd time to consider a renovation project, but the truth is now is a great time to plan an alfresco area addition project.

Addstyle Master Builders are experts in minimally obtrusive renovations. We work around your life, to keep your family and our team safe and healthy. You can go on with your day with minimal disruption as we renovate your alfresco in the background.

How To Design An Alfresco Area

Have you been holding off because you’re not sure where to start? We can help. Over more than 30 years, Addstyle Master Builders have designed and delivered hundreds of alfresco areas that blend seamlessly with the home’s style, offering a modern and functional all-weather living space.

Make a plan

Before you launch into an alfresco renovation, it pays to make a plan. You might be upgrading an existing outdoor area or reclaiming some unused backyard space to create a space to entertain, relax and live.

Wherever your starting point may be, here are some things to consider in the initial stages:

• How big would you like your alfresco to be?
• What would you like included in the space?
• How many people will use it?
• What kind of lighting will you need?
• Will it have permanent walls, or café blinds?
• What’s your budget for the project?
• Do you need council approval to renovate?

Once you have an idea of the overall plan, get in touch with us to find out what’s possible. We would be happy to come to your home for a complimentary on-site design consultation, or arrange a virtual tour of your outdoor space with safety and social distancing in mind.

Get inspired by contemporary alfresco designs

Once you have the basics nailed down, it’s time to build a picture of your perfect alfresco. This is where you can start to make a list of the major features you want to build in.

• Outdoor kitchen
• Built-in BBQ
• Sliding or bi-fold doors?
• Paving,decking, tiling or aggregate?
• Outdoor dining table
• Chairs and outdoor furniture for relaxing
• Outdoor fireplace
• Heat strips or gas heaters
• Lighting and sound system

Our project gallery is a great place to start looking for fresh alfresco ideas. Look around online as well (we’re fans of Pinterest) to get a feel for what’s possible in an alfresco area. We’re building the space for you, your family, and your friends to enjoy – so why not make it feel personal?

And remember, if your budget doesn’t stretch to allow for all the features you want, we can design with future upgrades in mind. What’s important is delivering a high-quality alfresco renovation that extends your living space seamlessly into the outdoors, and can be used in every season.

Keep it cosy

Being that you’ll want to show off your new alfresco area in all weather, and spend time enjoying some quiet solitude on rainy days, we can help you design for all weather. That includes winter and summer – and those two weeks either side Perth calls autumn and spring! How do we do it?

• Carefully chosen high-quality materials for walls and pillars
• Installing patio blinds to block out rain and wind
• Finding creative, cost-effective ways to heat the space
• Using a fan to circulate air in summer
• Versatile outdoor furniture that won’t fade in the sun
• Natural textures and materials for comfort

Another advantage of a well-designed alfresco is privacy from the neighbours. By creating a space that shields the view of stickybeaks, and softens sound when you’re entertaining, you can be comfortable every time you step out into your alfresco.

The trimmings

Here’s where your personal style really has an opportunity to shine through. Every alfresco renovation is different, because just like your home the finishing touches are a reflection of your family’s individual personalities.

Talk to Addstyle Master Builders about the latest and best alfresco design trends. We’ve made it our business to create high-quality, comfortable, personalised living spaces that add value to your home. Our design team can help you finish off the space with features and fittings that tie it all together – most of which are surprisingly affordable.

• Outdoor furniture
• Fireplace or fire pit
• Outdoor kitchen appliances
• Door and window designs to suit your lifestyle
• Lighting design
• Shade and privacy
• Dining table and chairs
• Plants and trees to attract wildlife

Ready To Get Started On Your Alfresco Renovation?

Why not start thinking about an alfresco design to welcome winter when it arrives? If you start planning your project today you can have it finished and ready to entertain within no time.

And by working with Addstyle Master Builders, you can be sure you will be able to enjoy the space all year round with the quality and contemporary styling of Perth’s trusted experts in alfresco design. We create versatile, comfortable outdoor areas designed for living.

Contact Addstyle Master Builders to learn more or book a free consultation.

Building Up – Taking Your Home to the Next Level

by bemedia | Apr 22, 2020 | news

As families grow they often start t find their homes bursting at the seams. When Perth families run out of room at home there are 3 choices: move, rebuild, or extend.

Assuming you have already settled the ‘moving’ debate and decided to renovate instead of build, it’s time to consider the pros and cons of home additions. In this article we are focusing on second storey additions.

Why build up?

Adding a second storey can seem daunting. Will it blend well with the ground floor? Where will the stairs go? Will it increase the property value? To make the right choice for you and your family, it’s important to understand the benefits of second storey additions.

Maximise backyard space

Australian blocks are getting smaller as our population rises and density becomes more accepted. Adding a second storey expands your living space – sometimes even doubles it – without encroaching on backyard space.

Add value to your home

If executed well, second storey additions increase the resale value of your home. While you can make the same argument for a high quality home extension, a two-storey home has a greater street presence and retains the full sized backyard.

Capitalise on views

Perth is known for world-class sunsets and stunning nature. Adding a second storey is a great way to exploit potential views, whether they be of water, the city, or even the treetops. Imagine your family sitting on the balcony on a summer afternoon, watching the sun slowly sink – do you need any more convincing?

Is a second storey addition suitable?

Before committing to adding an upper floor there are a few rules and regulations to consider. Firstly, you will need council approval, and then there are technical questions about your current home. A few of the important details to consider include:

• Council zoning regulations which can impact building height and street scape;
• Existing structure – will it need additional engineering to hold the second storey?
• Character and heritage homes – Are often imperfect and require the experience and expertise of a period home specialist;
• Balance – Careful consideration of the shape and height of the addition. You don’t want the ‘box-on-a-roof’ finish, rather you want something seamless;
• How the existing floor plan will be impacted;
• Whether you can stay in the house during the renovation

The good news is the team at Addstyle Master Builders can help you navigate the design and approval requirements to take the stress out of adding a second storey. In most cases you can stay in the house while our team works around your lifestyle with minimal disruption.

From the archives: Here are 5 more things you should consider when adding a second storey.

Cost of adding a second storey

Cost is obviously a significant factor in second storey additions. It’s important to build within your budget while creating an addition that makes room for your family to grow, live, work, relax and play.

Addstyle Master Builders create modern double-framed or brick-veneer second storey additions with bedrooms, bathrooms and living space from around $220,000.

Of course, the final price will depend on the project specifics such as the level of finish (aluminium or timber window frames, tiling heights, floor-base material), any extra features and considerations of the ground floor house. The best way to get an firm cost indication for your own home is to contact our design team for a complimentary consultation.

Addstyle Master Builders: Perth’s second storey experts

We have been raising the standards of second storey additions in Perth for more than 30 years. At Addstyle, we believe that building up is the ideal solution to get more living space, especially where a narrow block or non-negotiable backyard means you can’t extend out.

Browse our project gallery to see some of our recent second-storey additions. When you’re ready to elevate your lifestyle, contact our team or book a consultation using the form on our website.