I want to take a moment to deep dive into one key area that can be the cause of loads of challenges in your renovation or new build. 

I’m not overstating it, when I tell you that this one thing can be at the heart of most building disputes, errors and costly mistakes. In fact, a lot of serious litigation cases can be credited to this one thing failing or missing. 

So what is it? This one crucial tool? 

It’s  … COMMUNICATION. 

When it’s done well, it helps projects run smoothly, achieve great outcomes and create homes that are a joy to live in. 

And when it’s not. Well, it’s how projects unravel, money and time is wasted, loads of stress is caused as well, and the whole experience of renovating or building made awful. 

When you build or renovate your home, there are so many moving parts to pull together. Different team members, different ideas, decisions, processes … boxes to tick, rules to satisfy, budgets to meet … 

And in the middle of all of that will be you, and anyone else in your family who gets a say, figuring out what you want from your finished home – and how to bring it to life. 

That’s the sometimes-hilarious-sometimes-frustrating thing isn’t it? Not only do you have to get it right in communicating your vision to those helping you design and build it. You also have to get on the same page as your partner, or your family members, in actually creating that vision in the first place! 

No wonder it can get hairy sometimes. 

So, in this episode and the next, I’ll take you through some of the most important elements of communication for your project, and how to use them successfully to get great results, and save yourself headaches along the way.  

And then in the third episode of this interlude, I’ll share some of the key mistakes I see people make, so you can avoid those too.  

What are the first 3 Communication tools? They are: 
Your team 
Your brief 
Your language 

Listen to the podcast now to learn more about these first 3 Communication tools so you can get it right. 

Links mentioned in this podcast: 

Terminology used in building >>> www.yourbuilding.org 

A glossary of building terminology >>> www.ownerbuildercourses.com/building-terminology 

What drawings do you need for your project? >>> http://undercoverarchitect.com/what-drawings-do-i-need-to-build-or-renovate-my-home/ 

Your Secret Ally, 

Amelia Lee, UA x 

 

I want to take a moment to deep dive into one key area that can be the cause of loads of challenges in your renovation&nbsp;or new build.&nbsp;
I&rsquo;m not overstating it, when I tell you that this one thing can be at the heart of most building disputes, errors and costly mistakes. In fact, a lot of serious litigation cases can be credited to this one thing failing or missing.&nbsp;
So what is it?&nbsp;This one crucial tool?&nbsp;
It&rsquo;s&nbsp; &hellip; COMMUNICATION.&nbsp;
When it&rsquo;s done well, it helps projects run smoothly, achieve great outcomes and create homes that are a joy to live in.&nbsp;
And when it&rsquo;s not. Well, it&rsquo;s how projects unravel, money and time is wasted, loads of stress is caused as well, and the whole experience of renovating or building made awful.&nbsp;
When you build or renovate your home, there are so many moving parts to pull together. Different team members, different ideas, decisions, processes &hellip; boxes to tick, rules to satisfy, budgets to meet &hellip;&nbsp;
And in the middle of all of that will be you, and anyone else in your family who gets a say, figuring out what you want from your finished home &ndash; and how to bring it to life.&nbsp;
That&rsquo;s the sometimes-hilarious-sometimes-frustrating thing isn&rsquo;t it? Not only&nbsp;do you have&nbsp;to get it right in communicating your vision to those helping you design and build it.&nbsp;You also have&nbsp;to get on the same page as your partner, or your family members, in actually creating that vision in the first place!&nbsp;
No wonder it can get hairy sometimes.&nbsp;
So, in this episode and the next, I&rsquo;ll&nbsp;take you through some of the most important elements of communication for your project, and how to use them successfully to get great results, and save yourself headaches along the way.&nbsp;&nbsp;
And then in the third episode of this interlude, I&rsquo;ll share some of the key mistakes I see people make, so you can avoid those too.&nbsp;&nbsp;
What are the first 3 Communication tools? They are:&nbsp;
<ol>
<li>Your team&nbsp;</li>
<li>Your brief&nbsp;</li>
<li>Your language&nbsp;</li>
</ol>
Listen to the podcast&nbsp;now&nbsp;to learn more&nbsp;about these first 3 Communication tools so you can get it right.&nbsp;
Links mentioned in this podcast:&nbsp;
Terminology used in building &gt;&gt;&gt;&nbsp;<a href="http://www.yourbuilding.org">www.yourbuilding.org</a>&nbsp;
A glossary of building terminology &gt;&gt;&gt;&nbsp;<a href="http://www.ownerbuildercourses.com/building-terminology&nbsp;">www.ownerbuildercourses.com/building-terminology&nbsp;</a>
What drawings do you need for your project? &gt;&gt;&gt;&nbsp;<a href="http://undercoverarchitect.com/what-drawings-do-i-need-to-build-or-renovate-my-home/">http://undercoverarchitect.com/what-drawings-do-i-need-to-build-or-renovate-my-home/</a>&nbsp;
Your Secret Ally,&nbsp;
Amelia Lee, UA x&nbsp;
&nbsp;

In this episode, Amelia Lee shares the first 3 communication tools you can use to make sure your building or renovation project runs smoothly.

Communication: Before you build - Episode 1 (Interlude)

As you begin to design and plan your new home or renovation, chances are you’ll be: 
looking at the spaces you want to create 
how you want to wrap them up (their size, shape, etc ) 
and what you want to put in them (finishes, fixtures, furnishings, etc) 

When you start to allocate your budget to these dreamed and imagined spaces, finishes and fixtures, it can be a surprise to see how quickly it gets consumed.  

And often, in my experience, the reaction can often be “But where is all the money going?” 

There are many things required to create a working, finished new or renovated home, and they can chew up a significant chunk of your budget – and yet be almost invisible in the finished product.  

So in this episode, we go through the main areas where money can disappear in any project, so you can manage them in yours. I share the main hazards to be aware of, and how you can protect your budget in each of these areas.  

Of course, the ones I’m listing here are not exhaustive – the best way to manage your budget is to manage all of it!   

However, I’ve seen these areas regularly surprise homeowners, and end up costing them far more than they intended.  

I take you through 4 main areas that can swallow your budget for a seemingly invisible result. I also share key tips to help you protect your budget in these areas – and overall. 

Money gobbler 1:Services (especially electrical and plumbing) 

Money gobbler 2:Excavation and retaining 

Money gobbler 3:Your home’s skeleton (the structure) 

Money gobbler 4:Extra living expenses during your project  

And one last word on this …  

I see some homeowners behave like it’s a foregone conclusion that their project will blow budget and timelines. Renovating and building doesn’t have to be that way. 

The renovating and building journey is not a one-step process. It’s a step-by-step journey of discovery and selection. Sometimes you only have 2 options. Sometimes you have 200. Sometimes you may feel like you’re crawling, and at other times it feels like big jumps towards the finish line. 

The most straight-forward way to avoid nasty surprises on your reno or new home journey is to start with good information and a reliable team. Then you can also work to make informed choices as you go. Checking and adjusting along the way. What did we say in an earlier episode? ADAPT AND INNOVATE!! 

Revisiting your design, your budget and your timeline at each of these stages will help you do this, and make the best choices for you … your budget, your site and your life. That’s the way you create the perfect home for you.  

Listen to the podcast now to learn more about these 4 main areas, and how to protect your budget, and manage your risk overall. 

This season, Undercover Architect has a podcast partner: Kiiko LED. 

Kiiko LED is customisable, DIY, LED strip lighting, that you can order online to your specifications, for your needs and project.  

Kiiko LED is founded by Craig Thomas, who I’ve personally had the pleasure of working with for over 12 years now, in my own projects, and in client projects.   

And so I’ve been able to organise with Kiiko a fantastic UA Community only offer. If you head to their website at www.kiiko.com.au/undercoverarchitect you’ll be able to access a $25 discount to use on your first order.   

Check it out, and start building your Kiiko LED strip lighting now!  

Your Secret Ally, 

Amelia Lee, UA x 

 

As you begin to design and plan your new home or renovation, chances are you&rsquo;ll be:&nbsp;
<ul>
<li data-listid="21" aria-setsize="-1" data-aria-posinset="1" data-aria-level="1">looking&nbsp;at&nbsp;the spaces you want to create&nbsp;</li>
<li data-listid="21" aria-setsize="-1" data-aria-posinset="2" data-aria-level="1">how&nbsp;you want to wrap them&nbsp;up (their size, shape,&nbsp;etc&nbsp;)&nbsp;</li>
<li data-listid="21" aria-setsize="-1" data-aria-posinset="3" data-aria-level="1">and&nbsp;what you want to put in them (finishes, fixtures, furnishings,&nbsp;etc)&nbsp;</li>
</ul>
When you start to allocate your budget to these dreamed and imagined spaces, finishes and fixtures, it can be a surprise to see how quickly it gets consumed.&nbsp;&nbsp;
And often, in my experience, the reaction can often be &ldquo;But where is all the money going?&rdquo;&nbsp;
There are many things required to create a working, finished new or renovated home, and they can chew up a significant chunk of your budget &ndash; and yet be almost invisible in the finished product.&nbsp;&nbsp;
So in this episode, we&nbsp;go through the main areas where money can disappear in any project, so you can manage them in yours. I&nbsp;share the main hazards to be aware of, and how you can protect your budget in each of these areas.&nbsp;&nbsp;
Of course, the ones I&rsquo;m listing here are not exhaustive &ndash; the best way to manage your budget is to manage all of it!&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
However,&nbsp;I&rsquo;ve seen these areas regularly surprise homeowners, and end up costing them far more than they intended.&nbsp;&nbsp;
I take you through 4 main areas that can swallow your budget for a seemingly invisible result. I also share key tips to help you protect your budget in these areas &ndash; and overall.&nbsp;
Money gobbler 1:Services (especially electrical and plumbing)&nbsp;
Money gobbler 2:Excavation and retaining&nbsp;
Money gobbler 3:Your home&rsquo;s skeleton (the structure)&nbsp;
Money gobbler 4:Extra living expenses during your project&nbsp;&nbsp;
And one last word on this &hellip;&nbsp;&nbsp;
I see&nbsp;some&nbsp;homeowners behave like it&rsquo;s a foregone conclusion that their project will blow budget and timelines. Renovating and building doesn&rsquo;t have to be that way.&nbsp;
The renovating and building journey is not a one-step process. It&rsquo;s a step-by-step journey of discovery and selection. Sometimes you only have 2 options. Sometimes you have 200. Sometimes you may feel like you&rsquo;re crawling, and at other times it feels like big jumps towards the finish line.&nbsp;
The most&nbsp;straight-forward&nbsp;way to avoid nasty surprises on your&nbsp;reno&nbsp;or new home journey is to start with good information and a reliable team. Then you can also work to make informed choices as you go.&nbsp;Checking and adjusting along&nbsp;the way.&nbsp;What did we say in an earlier episode? ADAPT AND INNOVATE!!&nbsp;
Revisiting your design, your budget and your timeline at each of these stages will help you do this, and make the best choices for you &hellip; your budget, your site and your life. That&rsquo;s the way you create the perfect home for you.&nbsp;&nbsp;
Listen to the podcast&nbsp;now&nbsp;to learn more about these&nbsp;4 main areas, and how to protect your budget, and manage your risk overall.&nbsp;
This season,&nbsp;Undercover Architect has a podcast partner:&nbsp;Kiiko&nbsp;LED.&nbsp;
Kiiko&nbsp;LED is&nbsp;customisable, DIY, LED strip&nbsp;lighting, that&nbsp;you can order online to your specifications, for your needs and project.&nbsp;&nbsp;
Kiiko&nbsp;LED is founded by Craig Thomas, who I&rsquo;ve personally had the pleasure of working with for over 12 years now, in my own projects, and in client projects.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
And so I&rsquo;ve been able to&nbsp;organise&nbsp;with&nbsp;Kiiko&nbsp;a fantastic UA Community only offer. If you head to their website at www.kiiko.com.au/undercoverarchitect you&rsquo;ll be able to access a $25 discount to use on your first order.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
Check it out, and start building your&nbsp;Kiiko&nbsp;LED strip lighting now!&nbsp;&nbsp;
Your Secret Ally,&nbsp;
Amelia Lee, UA x&nbsp;
&nbsp;

Amelia takes you through 4 main areas that can swallow your budget for a seemingly invisible result. She also shares key tips to help you protect your budget in these areas – and overall.

Where Money Disappears in a Project - Episode 9 (Season 3)

One of the things I often see occurs is that homeowners will be so diligent during their early phases of their projects. Total ninjas when juggling competing demands, sorting their priorities, hunting down bargains, making strong decisions so they meet their budget. 

And then construction will start.   

They’ll head to site and start seeing progress. And then they’ll start changing things. Or they’ll see a material or fixture somewhere, fall in love with it, and have to have it – even though it’s more than what they’d originally budgeted for, or already selected. 

This might be because construction feels like the last point at which you can be sure you’ve got it right. Your last opportunity to ensure you’ve made the best choices, because once it’s in, it’s permanent and you’ll be living with it. 

And perhaps too, it’s because it can be hard to visualise things when they’re all on paper. You’re looking at lines on a page that represents rooms and spaces and joinery. Often homeowners will walk on site and say “Oh, is THAT what it looks like” like it’s the first time they’ve actually realised.  

When you make changes on site: be it because you’ve not understood how something actually was designed … or you see an alternative product or material you would rather use … or you change your mind about anything you’ve previously selected or included in your design … these changes rarely save you money.   

More often than not, they cost MORE in time and money. 

And it’s in these changes that homeowners can blow their budget. They’re spending a little extra here and there. All those ‘little extras’ add up over time, get a builder’s margin added onto them, and can end up being a big budget blowout.  

In this episode, I share the ways you can spend your budget wisely, and stay on track for your project, as well as the tools you can use. I go into detail on these three specific strategies: 

Strategy 1: Start how you intend to finish … and finish how you started 

Strategy 2: Monitor your progress – in time and money 

Strategy 3: Be realistic about your own abilities 

Following these strategies will help you to manage the spending of your budget with the same discipline you set it with. And ultimately that will help you stay on track in your renovation or new build, and deliver the finished result without huge financial headaches.  

Listen to the podcast now to learn more about these strategies and stay on track with your spending!  

Links mentioned in the podcast 

Microsoft now has a template you can use to set up your budget in excel 

https://www.microsoft.com/australia/madewithoffice/article/how-to-keep-track-of-your-diy-renovation-in-excel.aspx 

Pocketbook is one of my favourite apps for streaming your bank account and tracking / categorising transactions 

https://itunes.apple.com/au/app/pocketbook-personal-finance-expense-tracker/id653330894?mt=8 

Renovation Budget Tracker ($4.50) 

https://itunes.apple.com/au/app/renovation-budget-tracker/id381991960?mt=8 

 AMP Budget Tracker 

https://www.tracker.qandamp.com.au/ 

Tom’s Planner 

https://www.tomsplanner.com/ 

LED Lighting and how to get it right 

http://undercoverarchitect.com/what-is-led-lighting/  

This season, Undercover Architect has a podcast partner: Kiiko LED. 

Kiiko LED is customisable, DIY, LED strip lighting, that you can order online to your specifications, for your needs and project. 

Kiiko LED is founded by Craig Thomas, who I’ve personally had the pleasure of working with for over 12 years now, in my own projects, and in client projects.  

And so I’ve been able to organise with Kiiko a fantastic UA Community only offer. If you head to their website at www.kiiko.com.au/undercoverarchitect you’ll be able to access a $25 discount to use on your first order.  

Check it out, and start building your Kiiko LED strip lighting now! 

Your Secret Ally, 

Amelia Lee, UA x 

One of the things I often see&nbsp;occurs&nbsp;is that homeowners will be so diligent during their early phases of their projects. Total ninjas when juggling competing demands, sorting their priorities, hunting down bargains, making strong decisions so they meet their budget.&nbsp;
And then construction will start.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
They&rsquo;ll head to site and start seeing progress. And then they&rsquo;ll start changing things. Or they&rsquo;ll see a material or fixture somewhere, fall in love with it, and have to have it &ndash; even though it&rsquo;s more than what they&rsquo;d originally budgeted for, or already selected.&nbsp;
This might be because construction feels like the last point at which you can be sure you&rsquo;ve got it right. Your last opportunity to ensure you&rsquo;ve made the best choices,&nbsp;because once it&rsquo;s in, it&rsquo;s permanent and you&rsquo;ll be living with it.&nbsp;
And perhaps too,&nbsp;it&rsquo;s because it can be hard to&nbsp;visualise&nbsp;things when they&rsquo;re all on paper. You&rsquo;re looking at lines on a page that represents rooms and spaces and joinery. Often homeowners will walk on site and&nbsp;say&nbsp;&ldquo;Oh, is THAT what it looks like&rdquo; like it&rsquo;s the first time they&rsquo;ve actually&nbsp;realised.&nbsp;&nbsp;
When you make changes on site:&nbsp;be it because you&rsquo;ve not understood how something actually was designed &hellip; or you see an alternative product or material you would rather use &hellip; or you change your mind about anything you&rsquo;ve previously selected or included in your design &hellip; these changes rarely save you money.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
More&nbsp;often than not, they cost MORE&nbsp;in time and money.&nbsp;
And it&rsquo;s in these changes that homeowners can blow their budget.&nbsp;They&rsquo;re&nbsp;spending a little extra here and there. All those &lsquo;little extras&rsquo; add up over time, get a builder&rsquo;s margin added onto them, and can end up being a big budget blowout.&nbsp;&nbsp;
In this episode, I share the ways you can spend your budget wisely, and stay on track for your project, as well as&nbsp;the&nbsp;tools you can use. I go into detail on these three&nbsp;specific&nbsp;strategies:&nbsp;
Strategy 1:&nbsp;Start how you intend to finish &hellip; and finish how you started&nbsp;
Strategy 2:&nbsp;Monitor your progress &ndash; in time and money&nbsp;
Strategy 3:&nbsp;Be realistic about your own abilities&nbsp;
Following these strategies will help you to manage the spending of your budget with the same discipline you set it with.&nbsp;And ultimately that will help you stay on track in your renovation or new build, and deliver the finished result without huge financial headaches.&nbsp;&nbsp;
Listen to the podcast&nbsp;now&nbsp;to learn more about these&nbsp;strategies&nbsp;and stay on track with your spending!&nbsp;&nbsp;
Links mentioned in the podcast&nbsp;
Microsoft now has&nbsp;a template you can use to set up your budget in excel&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.microsoft.com/australia/madewithoffice/article/how-to-keep-track-of-your-diy-renovation-in-excel.aspx">https://www.microsoft.com/australia/madewithoffice/article/how-to-keep-track-of-your-diy-renovation-in-excel.aspx</a>&nbsp;
Pocketbook is one of my&nbsp;favourite&nbsp;apps&nbsp;for streaming your bank account and tracking /&nbsp;categorising&nbsp;transactions&nbsp;
<a href="https://itunes.apple.com/au/app/pocketbook-personal-finance-expense-tracker/id653330894?mt=8">https://itunes.apple.com/au/app/pocketbook-personal-finance-expense-tracker/id653330894?mt=8</a>&nbsp;
Renovation Budget Tracker ($4.50)&nbsp;
<a href="https://itunes.apple.com/au/app/renovation-budget-tracker/id381991960?mt=8">https://itunes.apple.com/au/app/renovation-budget-tracker/id381991960?mt=8</a>&nbsp;
&nbsp;AMP Budget Tracker&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.tracker.qandamp.com.au/&nbsp;">https://www.tracker.qandamp.com.au/&nbsp;</a>
Tom&rsquo;s Planner&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.tomsplanner.com/&nbsp;">https://www.tomsplanner.com/&nbsp;</a>
LED Lighting and how to get it right&nbsp;
<a href="http://undercoverarchitect.com/what-is-led-lighting/&nbsp;">http://undercoverarchitect.com/what-is-led-lighting/&nbsp;</a>&nbsp;
This season,&nbsp;Undercover Architect has a podcast partner:&nbsp;Kiiko&nbsp;LED.&nbsp;
Kiiko&nbsp;LED is&nbsp;customisable, DIY, LED strip&nbsp;lighting, that&nbsp;you can order online to your specifications, for your needs and project.&nbsp;
Kiiko&nbsp;LED is founded by Craig Thomas, who I&rsquo;ve personally had the pleasure of working with for over 12 years now, in my own projects, and in client projects.&nbsp;&nbsp;
And so I&rsquo;ve been able to&nbsp;organise&nbsp;with&nbsp;Kiiko&nbsp;a fantastic UA Community only offer. If you head to their website at www.kiiko.com.au/undercoverarchitect you&rsquo;ll be able to access a $25 discount to use on your first order.&nbsp;&nbsp;
Check it out, and start building your&nbsp;Kiiko&nbsp;LED strip lighting now!&nbsp;
Your Secret Ally,&nbsp;
Amelia Lee, UA x&nbsp;

In this episode, Amelia Lee shares the ways you can spend your budget wisely, and stay on track for your project, as well as the tools you can use.

Spending and Staying on Track - Episode 8 (Season 3)

When homeowners find out – often with total shock – that their expectations for their renovation or new home project don’t match the reality of its cost, a readjustment has to occur for them to keep going on their journey. 

The challenge is that many homeowners often wait far too long to get to this point of readjustment.  

They hop on a train towards their destination (that is, their new or renovated home), without checking that they’re on the right train. It’s only several stops along their trip that they check, and discover they’re on an express train to somewhere they didn’t mean to go.  

So, how do you avoid this? How do you avoid the hurt of derailing a train (ie your project) and it ending in disaster? 

Simple. Get your expectations meeting reality as early as possible. If you can readjust early, then you can hop on the best train for you. 

Part of this is working out the cost of your renovation or new home. Homeowners often feel this is a one-step process, however it’s definitely not. 

This is how Amelia recommends you source costing information on your new home or renovation project … and when. And then manage your budget and spending along the way. 

There’s several steps, and in this podcast, we move through them one by one …  

Step #1: At the very start 

Step #2: To help you choose the best design concept to move forward with 

Step #3: Before you lodge for your Council Approval (DA, Development Application, Development Approval) 

Step #4: Before you get Building Approval  

Step #5: Before you sign a contract with a builder 

Step #6: During the construction project 

Step #7: Before making the final payment 

If there’s anything you take away from this season of the podcast, Amelia would love it to be this … 

Determining what your project will cost is an incremental process.  

You set your budget at the beginning, and you keep testing and adjusting as you go. Providing more information, resolving more detail, and finding out cost estimates along the way. 

Amelia has said it before, but it’s literally like moving through a funnel … one that gets narrower as you go … and moves you towards where you want to get to as you sift and filter all the info you need along the way. 

Listen to the podcast to learn more about these steps, how to get costing information, and who to talk to.   

Links mentioned in the podcast 

Definition of Provision Sums and PC Items: http://www.build.com.au/prime-cost-and-provisional-sum-traps 

This season, Undercover Architect has a podcast partner: Kiiko LED. 

Kiiko LED is customisable, DIY, LED strip lighting, that you can order online to your specifications, for your needs and project. 

Kiiko LED is founded by Craig Thomas, who Amelia has personally had the pleasure of working with for over 12 years now, in her own projects, and in client projects.  

And so Amelia has been able to organise with Kiiko a fantastic UA Community only offer. If you head to their website at www.kiiko.com.au/undercoverarchitect you’ll be able to access a $25 discount to use on your first order.   

Check it out, and start building your Kiiko LED strip lighting now! 

 

When homeowners find out &ndash; often with total shock &ndash; that their expectations&nbsp;for their renovation or new home project don&rsquo;t match the reality of its cost, a readjustment has to occur&nbsp;for them to keep going on their journey.&nbsp;
The&nbsp;challenge&nbsp;is that&nbsp;many&nbsp;homeowners often wait far too long to get to this point of readjustment.&nbsp;&nbsp;
They hop&nbsp;on a&nbsp;train towards their destination (that is, their new&nbsp;or renovated&nbsp;home),&nbsp;without checking that they&rsquo;re on the right train. It&rsquo;s only several stops along their trip that they check, and discover they&rsquo;re on an express train to somewhere they didn&rsquo;t mean to go.&nbsp;&nbsp;
So, how do you avoid this? How do you avoid the hurt of derailing a train (ie&nbsp;your project) and it ending in disaster?&nbsp;
Simple. Get your expectations meeting reality as early as&nbsp;possible.&nbsp;If you can readjust early, then you can hop on the best train for you.&nbsp;
Part of this is working out the cost of your renovation or new home. Homeowners often feel this is a one-step process, however it&rsquo;s definitely not.&nbsp;
This is how Amelia recommends you source costing information on your new home or renovation project&nbsp;&hellip; and when. And then manage your budget and spending along the way.&nbsp;
There&rsquo;s&nbsp;several steps, and in this podcast, we&nbsp;move through them one by one &hellip;&nbsp;&nbsp;
Step&nbsp;#1:&nbsp;At the very start&nbsp;
Step&nbsp;#2: To help you choose the best design concept to move forward with&nbsp;
Step&nbsp;#3: Before you lodge for your Council Approval (DA, Development Application, Development Approval)&nbsp;
Step&nbsp;#4: Before you get Building Approval&nbsp;&nbsp;
Step&nbsp;#5:&nbsp;Before you sign a contract with a builder&nbsp;
Step&nbsp;#6:&nbsp;During the construction project&nbsp;
Step #7: Before making the final payment&nbsp;
If&nbsp;there&rsquo;s&nbsp;anything you take away from this season of the podcast, Amelia would love it to be this &hellip;&nbsp;
Determining what your project will cost is an incremental process.&nbsp;&nbsp;
You set your budget at the beginning, and you keep testing and adjusting as you go. Providing more information, resolving more detail, and finding out cost estimates along the way.&nbsp;
Amelia has said it before, but it&rsquo;s literally like moving through a funnel &hellip; one that gets narrower as you go &hellip; and moves you towards where you want to get to as you sift and filter all the info you need along the way.&nbsp;
Listen to the podcast to learn more about these steps, how to get costing information, and who to talk to.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
Links mentioned in the podcast&nbsp;
Definition of Provision Sums and PC Items:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.build.com.au/prime-cost-and-provisional-sum-traps&nbsp;">http://www.build.com.au/prime-cost-and-provisional-sum-traps&nbsp;</a>
This season,&nbsp;Undercover Architect has a podcast partner:&nbsp;Kiiko&nbsp;LED.&nbsp;
Kiiko&nbsp;LED is&nbsp;customisable, DIY, LED strip&nbsp;lighting, that&nbsp;you can order online to your specifications, for your needs and project.&nbsp;
Kiiko&nbsp;LED is founded by Craig Thomas, who Amelia has personally had the pleasure of working with for over 12 years now, in her own projects, and in client projects.&nbsp;&nbsp;
And so Amelia has been able to&nbsp;organise&nbsp;with&nbsp;Kiiko&nbsp;a fantastic UA Community only offer. If you head to their website at <a href="http://www.kiiko.com.au/undercoverarchitect">www.kiiko.com.au/undercoverarchitect</a> you&rsquo;ll be able to access a $25 discount to use on your first order.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
Check it out, and start building your&nbsp;Kiiko&nbsp;LED strip lighting now!&nbsp;
&nbsp;

In this episode, Amelia shares with us her tips for checking in and making sure your budget and expectations are on track at every step of your renovation.

Getting costing info along the way - Episode 7 (Season 3)

There’s a saying that goes something like this … 

“A new home or renovation will always cost twice as much, and take twice as long, as you expect it to” 

It’s usually given as a warning to those embarking on their project. And often it’s handed out at school gates or BBQs or in the workplace … where well-meaning friends and colleagues who’ve been through a project of their own, share learnings from their own experience. 

However, in Amelia's opinion, there’s a big issue with this piece of advice. What she actually finds is this: 

Homeowners in fact start  their project expecting that it will take half as long, and cost half as much as it actually will. 

Amelia dooesn't know how expectations and reality got so far apart. Perhaps it’s a diet of reality TV programs and big shed hardware stores. 

So, let’s look at what can happen when you realise your budget is unrealistic, and how to get yourself back on track so you can keep going on your project.  

There are four main areas where Amelia see homeowners run into trouble and discover their budgets are unrealistic for what they’re seeking to build or renovate.  

These 4 main areas are really categorised by red flags, or warning signs, so Amelia's going to talk about them in that way so you can keep them on your radar for your project.  

These 4 main warnings or red flags are: 
Looking for magic pills 
Not understanding the impact of your decisions (and this extends to those you’re working with not advising you either) 
Not listening to warning from your professional team 
Not tracking your budget 

So, is your budget unrealistic for your project vision? Listen to the podcast now to get help on what to do if it is – and keep you moving forward towards your finished home.  

Links mentioned in the podcast 

http://undercoverarchitect.com/your-renovating-and-building-budget/ 

http://undercoverarchitect.com/how-to-be-inspired-by-design-on-any-budget/ 

http://undercoverarchitect.com/the-builders-wife-pain-free-building-and-renovating/  

 

This season, Undercover Architect has a podcast partner: Kiiko LED. 

Kiiko LED is customisable, DIY, LED strip lighting, that you can order online to your specifications, for your needs and project. 

Kiiko LED is founded by Craig Thomas, who Ameilia personally has had the pleasure of working with for over 12 years now, in her own projects, and in client projects.  

And so Amelia has been able to organise with Kiiko a fantastic UA Community only offer. If you head to their website at www.kiiko.com.au/undercoverarchitect you’ll be able to access a $25 discount to use on your first order.  

Check it out, and start building your Kiiko LED strip lighting now! 

There&rsquo;s a saying that goes something like this &hellip;&nbsp;
&ldquo;A new home or renovation will always cost twice as much, and take twice as long, as you expect it to&rdquo;&nbsp;
It&rsquo;s usually given as a warning to those embarking on their project. And often it&rsquo;s handed out at school gates or BBQs or in the workplace &hellip; where well-meaning friends and colleagues who&rsquo;ve been through a project of their own, share&nbsp;learnings&nbsp;from their own experience.&nbsp;
However, in Amelia's opinion, there&rsquo;s a big issue with this piece of advice. What she actually finds is this:&nbsp;
Homeowners in fact start  their project expecting that it will take half as long, and cost half as much as it actually will.&nbsp;
Amelia dooesn't know how expectations and reality got so far apart. Perhaps it&rsquo;s a diet of reality TV programs and big shed hardware stores.&nbsp;
So, let&rsquo;s&nbsp;look&nbsp;at what can happen when you&nbsp;realise&nbsp;your budget is unrealistic, and how to get yourself back on track so you can&nbsp;keep going on&nbsp;your project.&nbsp;&nbsp;
There are four main areas where Amelia see homeowners run into trouble and discover their budgets are unrealistic for what they&rsquo;re seeking to build or renovate.&nbsp;&nbsp;
These 4&nbsp;main areas are really&nbsp;categorised&nbsp;by red flags, or warning signs, so Amelia's going to talk about them in that way so you can keep them on your radar for&nbsp;your project.&nbsp;&nbsp;
These 4 main warnings or red flags are:&nbsp;
<ol>
<li>Looking&nbsp;for magic pills&nbsp;</li>
<li>Not understanding the impact of your decisions (and this extends to those you&rsquo;re working with not advising you either)&nbsp;</li>
<li>Not listening to warning from your professional team&nbsp;</li>
<li>Not tracking your budget&nbsp;</li>
</ol>
So, is your budget unrealistic for your project vision?&nbsp;Listen to the podcast now to get help on what to do if it is &ndash; and keep you moving forward towards your finished home.&nbsp;&nbsp;
Links mentioned in the podcast&nbsp;
<a href="http://undercoverarchitect.com/your-renovating-and-building-budget/">http://undercoverarchitect.com/your-renovating-and-building-budget/</a>&nbsp;
<a href="http://undercoverarchitect.com/how-to-be-inspired-by-design-on-any-budget/">http://undercoverarchitect.com/how-to-be-inspired-by-design-on-any-budget/</a>&nbsp;
<a href="http://undercoverarchitect.com/the-builders-wife-pain-free-building-and-renovating/">http://undercoverarchitect.com/the-builders-wife-pain-free-building-and-renovating/</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;
&nbsp;
This season,&nbsp;Undercover Architect has a podcast partner:&nbsp;Kiiko&nbsp;LED.&nbsp;
Kiiko&nbsp;LED is&nbsp;customisable, DIY, LED strip&nbsp;lighting, that&nbsp;you can order online to your specifications, for your needs and project.&nbsp;
Kiiko&nbsp;LED is founded by Craig Thomas, who Ameilia personally has had the pleasure of working with for over 12 years now, in her own projects, and in client projects.&nbsp;&nbsp;
And so Amelia has been able to&nbsp;organise&nbsp;with&nbsp;Kiiko&nbsp;a fantastic UA Community only offer. If you head to their website at <a href="http://www.kiiko.com.au/undercoverarchitect">www.kiiko.com.au/undercoverarchitect</a> you&rsquo;ll be able to access a $25 discount to use on your first order.&nbsp;&nbsp;
Check it out, and start building your&nbsp;Kiiko&nbsp;LED strip lighting now!&nbsp;

Amelia looks at what can happen when you realise your budget is unrealistic, and how to get yourself back on track so you can keep going on your project.

What to do if you realise your budget is unrealistic - Episode 6 (Season 3)

When you’re first starting out on your project, you’re generally looking for a designer or a builder (or both). And ultimately you’re trying to find someone you can trust, and who is a good fit for your project. 

It can be tricky to know how much to say, and whether to admit you don’t know what you’re doing. This episode is all about how to have that first conversation with your potential designer or builder.  

Amelia shares what goes wrong when you don’t choose well, and what can go right. And she also gives key tips for how to speak with them when first on the hunt for yours. 

Amelia thinks that when you understand what can go wrong, and what it looks like when you get it right, it helps you be more alert and aware in your search for your team at the outset. 

When you find the right designer and builder for you, these two professionals can be the ones to facilitate a great outcome for your project, and help you create a home you love to live in. 

Finding the right designer for you: 

What can go wrong: 
Not be able to communicate effectively 
You’ll take a long time to reach a design resolution 
The designer will overspend your budget and timelines 

What happens when you get it right: 
Process overall will be simplified 
It will also be more efficient 
You’ll have more certainty around cost and time  

Tips for how to have the first conversation with your potential designer: 
Speak about your budget in ranges 
Let them know what the budget needs to include 
Look to designers with demonstrated experience in projects similar to yours  

And finding the right builder for you:  

What can go wrong: 
You expect your builder to be a designer as well 
Communication breakdowns occur 
Poor management and quality in your project  

What happens when you get it right: 
The builder is efficient, polite and organised 
Site is a great place to be 
Honest and open communication skills 

Tips for how to have the first conversation with your potential builder: 
Review the language you use 
Check previous experience 
Check credentials and licenses 

When it goes well with your design and builder – and it can – your reno or new home project can be enjoyable. Even when unexpected challenges come up, having the right team around you can make those experiences so much simpler to tackle.  

And relying on your team to carry you, support you and share your journey, can help you feel confident that all the effort, time and money will deliver the home – and lifestyle – you’re hoping for. 

Links mentioned in the podcast 

http://undercoverarchitect.com/how-do-i-choose-my-designer/ 

http://undercoverarchitect.com/first-meeting-with-architect-or-designer/ 

http://undercoverarchitect.com/start-first-conversation-potential-designer/ 

http://undercoverarchitect.com/how-to-choose-a-builder/ 

http://undercoverarchitect.com/architect-vs-draftsperson-vs-building-designer-whats-the-difference/  

 

This season, Undercover Architect has a podcast partner: Kiiko LED. 

Kiiko LED is customisable, DIY, LED strip lighting, that you can order online to your specifications, for your needs and project. 

Kiiko LED is founded by Craig Thomas, who Amelia has personally had the pleasure of working with for over 12 years now, in her own projects, and in client projects.  

And so Amelia has been able to organise with Kiiko a fantastic UA Community only offer. If you head to their website at www.kiiko.com.au/undercoverarchitect you’ll be able to access a $25 discount to use on your first order.  

Check it out, and start building your Kiiko LED strip lighting now! 

Your Secret Ally, 

Amelia Lee, UA x 

 

When you&rsquo;re first starting out on your project, you&rsquo;re generally looking for a designer or a builder (or both). And ultimately you&rsquo;re trying to find someone you can trust, and who is a good fit for your project.&nbsp;
It can be tricky to know how much to say, and whether to admit you don&rsquo;t know what you&rsquo;re doing. This episode is all about how to have that first conversation with your potential designer or builder.&nbsp;&nbsp;
Amelia shares what goes wrong when you don&rsquo;t choose well, and what can go right. And she also gives key tips for how to speak with them when first on the hunt for yours.&nbsp;
Amelia thinks that when you understand what can go wrong, and what it looks like when you get it right, it helps you be more alert and aware in your search for your team at the outset.&nbsp;
When you find the right designer and builder for you, these two professionals can be the ones to facilitate a great outcome for your project, and help you create a home you love to live in.&nbsp;
Finding the right designer for you:&nbsp;
What can go wrong:&nbsp;
<ol>
<li data-listid="12" data-aria-posinset="1" data-aria-level="1">Not be able to communicate effectively&nbsp;</li>
<li data-listid="12" data-aria-posinset="1" data-aria-level="1">You&rsquo;ll take a long time to reach a design resolution&nbsp;</li>
<li data-listid="12" data-aria-posinset="1" data-aria-level="1">The designer will overspend your budget and timelines&nbsp;</li>
</ol>
What happens when you get it right:&nbsp;
<ol>
<li data-listid="13" data-aria-posinset="1" data-aria-level="1">Process overall will be simplified&nbsp;</li>
<li data-listid="13" data-aria-posinset="1" data-aria-level="1">It will also be more efficient&nbsp;</li>
<li data-listid="13" data-aria-posinset="1" data-aria-level="1">You&rsquo;ll have more certainty around cost and time &nbsp;</li>
</ol>
Tips for how to have the first conversation with your potential designer:&nbsp;
<ol>
<li data-listid="14" data-aria-posinset="1" data-aria-level="1">Speak about your budget in ranges&nbsp;</li>
<li data-listid="14" data-aria-posinset="1" data-aria-level="1">Let them know what the budget needs to include&nbsp;</li>
<li data-listid="14" data-aria-posinset="1" data-aria-level="1">Look to designers with demonstrated experience in projects similar to yours &nbsp;</li>
</ol>
And finding the right builder for you:&nbsp;&nbsp;
What can go wrong:&nbsp;
<ol>
<li data-listid="16" data-aria-posinset="1" data-aria-level="1">You expect your builder to be a designer as well&nbsp;</li>
<li data-listid="16" data-aria-posinset="1" data-aria-level="1">Communication breakdowns occur&nbsp;</li>
<li data-listid="16" data-aria-posinset="1" data-aria-level="1">Poor management and quality in your project &nbsp;</li>
</ol>
What happens when you get it right:&nbsp;
<ol>
<li data-listid="17" data-aria-posinset="1" data-aria-level="1">The builder is efficient, polite and organised&nbsp;</li>
<li data-listid="17" data-aria-posinset="1" data-aria-level="1">Site is a great place to be&nbsp;</li>
<li data-listid="17" data-aria-posinset="1" data-aria-level="1">Honest and open communication skills&nbsp;</li>
</ol>
Tips for how to have the first conversation with your potential builder:&nbsp;
<ol>
<li data-listid="19" data-aria-posinset="1" data-aria-level="1">Review the language you use&nbsp;</li>
<li data-listid="19" data-aria-posinset="1" data-aria-level="1">Check previous experience&nbsp;</li>
<li data-listid="19" data-aria-posinset="1" data-aria-level="1">Check credentials and licenses&nbsp;</li>
</ol>
When it goes well with your design and builder &ndash; and it can &ndash; your reno or new home project can be enjoyable. Even when unexpected challenges come up, having the right team around you can make those experiences so much simpler to tackle.&nbsp;&nbsp;
And relying on your team to carry you, support you and share your journey, can help you feel confident that all the effort, time and money will deliver the home &ndash; and lifestyle &ndash; you&rsquo;re hoping for.&nbsp;
Links mentioned in the podcast&nbsp;
<a href="http://undercoverarchitect.com/how-do-i-choose-my-designer/">http://undercoverarchitect.com/how-do-i-choose-my-designer/</a>&nbsp;
<a href="http://undercoverarchitect.com/first-meeting-with-architect-or-designer/">http://undercoverarchitect.com/first-meeting-with-architect-or-designer/</a>&nbsp;
<a href="http://undercoverarchitect.com/start-first-conversation-potential-designer/">http://undercoverarchitect.com/start-first-conversation-potential-designer/</a>&nbsp;
<a href="http://undercoverarchitect.com/how-to-choose-a-builder/">http://undercoverarchitect.com/how-to-choose-a-builder/</a>&nbsp;
<a href="http://undercoverarchitect.com/architect-vs-draftsperson-vs-building-designer-whats-the-difference/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">http://undercoverarchitect.com/architect-vs-draftsperson-vs-building-designer-whats-the-difference/</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;
&nbsp;
This season, Undercover Architect has a podcast partner: Kiiko LED.&nbsp;
Kiiko LED is customisable, DIY, LED strip lighting, that you can order online to your specifications, for your needs and project.&nbsp;
Kiiko LED is founded by Craig Thomas, who Amelia has personally had the pleasure of working with for over 12 years now, in her own projects, and in client projects.&nbsp;&nbsp;
And so Amelia has been able to organise with Kiiko a fantastic UA Community only offer. If you head to their website at <a href="http://www.kiiko.com.au/undercoverarchitect" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.kiiko.com.au/undercoverarchitect</a> you&rsquo;ll be able to access a $25 discount to use on your first order.&nbsp;&nbsp;
Check it out, and start building your Kiiko LED strip lighting now!&nbsp;
Your Secret Ally,&nbsp;
Amelia Lee, UA x&nbsp;
&nbsp;

This episode is all about how to have that first conversation with your potential designer or builder.

The first conversation (with your potential designer or builder) - Episode 5 (Season 3)

Amelia wants to take you through some of the early mistakes she sees homeowners make. Ones that can cause budget blowouts down the track – before you’ve even begun your renovation or new build.

These are the components that homeowners can overlook completely. And in doing so, they miss the opportunity it gives them to be strategic in their project. And, they potentially set themselves up for extra costs or cancelled projects.

Amelia recommends that you wrap your head, and your budget, around these things as early in your project as you can. Because doing it early can impact the choices you make about how you renovate or build your home. And about how you create your home design.

So what are these early components that get missed by many?

Well, if you’re renovating, it how you deal with what needs to occur to your home as part of its maintenance and upkeep anyway.

And if you’re building, it's how you deal with what needs to happen to prepare your land for a new home.

In this episode, Amelia explains how to use early information in your renovation project to impact what and how you renovate. And to bring clarity to your overall budget, and strategic thinking to your decisions and choices.

And Amelia also explains how to investigate the land you’ll be building on, to see what it can tell you about how to build, what to build and how to save money doing it.

Listen to the episode, as Amelia shares what can go wrong, and what you should do instead. This information can help you make those first steps in your project far more confidently. And they can prevent big budget blowouts that derail and kill projects altogether.

Links mentioned in the episode and for further reading:
This one will help if you’re juggling whether to choose the house or the land first >>> http://undercoverarchitect.com/which-comes-first-the-house-or-the-land/

Here’s 3 mistakes that you can avoid when getting your soil test done >>> http://undercoverarchitect.com/soil-tests-avoid-mistakes/

This season, Undercover Architect has a podcast partner: Kiiko LED.

Kiiko LED is customisable, DIY, LED strip lighting, that you can order online to your specifications, for your needs and project.

Kiiko LED is founded by Craig Thomas, who Amelia has personally had the pleasure of working with for over 12 years now, in her own projects, and in client projects.

And so she's been able to organise with Kiiko a fantastic UA Community only offer. If you head to their website at www.kiiko.com.au/undercoverarchitect you’ll be able to access a $25 discount to use on your first order.

Check it out, and start building your Kiiko LED strip lighting now!

Your Secret Ally,
Amelia Lee, UA x

Amelia wants to take you through some of the early mistakes she sees homeowners make. Ones that can cause budget blowouts down the track &ndash; before you&rsquo;ve even begun your renovation or new build.
These are the components that homeowners can overlook completely. And in doing so, they miss the opportunity it gives them to be strategic in their project. And, they potentially set themselves up for extra costs or cancelled projects.
Amelia recommends that you wrap your head, and your budget, around these things as early in your project as you can. Because doing it early can impact the choices you make about how you renovate or build your home. And about how you create your home design.
So what are these early components that get missed by many?
Well, if you&rsquo;re renovating, it how you deal with what needs to occur to your home as part of its maintenance and upkeep anyway.
And if you&rsquo;re building, it's how you deal with what needs to happen to prepare your land for a new home.
In this episode, Amelia explains how to use early information in your renovation project to impact what and how you renovate. And to bring clarity to your overall budget, and strategic thinking to your decisions and choices.
And Amelia also explains how to investigate the land you&rsquo;ll be building on, to see what it can tell you about how to build, what to build and how to save money doing it.
Listen to the episode, as Amelia shares what can go wrong, and what you should do instead. This information can help you make those first steps in your project far more confidently. And they can prevent big budget blowouts that derail and kill projects altogether.
Links mentioned in the episode and for further reading: This one will help if you&rsquo;re juggling whether to choose the house or the land first &gt;&gt;&gt; <a href="http://undercoverarchitect.com/which-comes-first-the-house-or-the-land/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">http://undercoverarchitect.com/which-comes-first-the-house-or-the-land/</a>
Here&rsquo;s 3 mistakes that you can avoid when getting your soil test done &gt;&gt;&gt; <a href="http://undercoverarchitect.com/soil-tests-avoid-mistakes/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">http://undercoverarchitect.com/soil-tests-avoid-mistakes/</a>
This season, Undercover Architect has a podcast partner: Kiiko LED.
Kiiko LED is customisable, DIY, LED strip lighting, that you can order online to your specifications, for your needs and project.
Kiiko LED is founded by Craig Thomas, who Amelia has personally had the pleasure of working with for over 12 years now, in her own projects, and in client projects.
And so she's been able to organise with Kiiko a fantastic UA Community only offer. If you head to their website at <a href="http://www.kiiko.com.au/undercoverarchitect" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">www.kiiko.com.au/undercoverarchitect</a> you&rsquo;ll be able to access a $25 discount to use on your first order.
Check it out, and start building your Kiiko LED strip lighting now!
Your Secret Ally, Amelia Lee, UA x

In this episode, the Undercover Architect shares her tips for avoiding blowing out your budget.

Stop Budget Blowouts Before You’ve Begun - Episode 4 (Season 3)

There are 5 top money saving ideas Amelia hears homeowners use to explain how they’ll save big money in their reno or new build. In this episode, Amelia share why these can be in fact MYTHS. Huge mistakes that can actually cost you far more in the long run.

So what are these money saving ideas? They are …

Money Saving Idea #1:
“I can get cheap tiles … or paint … or timber … via a friend / family member etc, so I’m going to save loads of money”

Money Saving Idea #2:
“My friend / family member is a builder / electrician / plumber and will be doing the job for us at cost, or for free”.

Money Saving Idea #3:
“I’ll save money because I’m going to buy all my fixtures and finishes separate to the builder's contract. I’ll be able to find bargains, and avoid the builder’s margin on these items.”

Money Saving Idea #4:
“I’m going to project manage my renovation or new build.”

Money Saving Idea #5:
“I’m going to do my project as an Owner-Builder.”

For each of these 5 Money Saving Ideas, Amelia shares what can and does go terribly wrong. She also shares her main tips for each one, to help you avoid the pitfalls. And, she also shares with you what one big key is to saving money on your project.

If you’ve been thinking of any of these 5 Money Saving Ideas as the reason you’ll save money on your renovation or new home … or it being the reason you can actually afford your project, then listen to this episode now. Learn why these 5 Money Saving Ideas can actually be myths and cost you far more in time, money and stress.

Links mentioned in the podcast
This one will help you understand the role of a Project Manager
This one explains more about why you need a representative on site

This season, Undercover Architect has a podcast partner: Kiiko LED.

Kiiko LED is customisable, DIY, LED strip lighting, that you can order online to your specifications, for your needs and project.

Kiiko LED is founded by Craig Thomas, who Amelia has personally had the pleasure of working with for over 12 years now, in her own projects, and in client projects.

And so Amelia has been able to organise with Kiiko a fantastic UA Community only offer. If you head to their website at www.kiiko.com.au/undercoverarchitect you’ll be able to access a $25 discount to use on your first order.

Check it out, and start building your Kiiko LED strip lighting now!

There are 5 top money saving ideas Amelia hears homeowners use to explain how they&rsquo;ll save big money in their reno or new build. In this episode, Amelia share why these can be in fact MYTHS. Huge mistakes that can actually cost you far more in the long run.
So what are these money saving ideas? They are &hellip;
Money Saving Idea #1: &ldquo;I can get cheap tiles &hellip; or paint &hellip; or timber &hellip; via a friend / family member etc, so I&rsquo;m going to save loads of money&rdquo;
Money Saving Idea #2: &ldquo;My friend / family member is a builder / electrician / plumber and will be doing the job for us at cost, or for free&rdquo;.
Money Saving Idea #3: &ldquo;I&rsquo;ll save money because I&rsquo;m going to buy all my fixtures and finishes separate to the builder's contract. I&rsquo;ll be able to find bargains, and avoid the builder&rsquo;s margin on these items.&rdquo;
Money Saving Idea #4: &ldquo;I&rsquo;m going to project manage my renovation or new build.&rdquo;
Money Saving Idea #5: &ldquo;I&rsquo;m going to do my project as an Owner-Builder.&rdquo;
For each of these 5 Money Saving Ideas, Amelia shares what can and does go terribly wrong. She also shares her main tips for each one, to help you avoid the pitfalls. And, she also shares with you what one big key is to saving money on your project.
If you&rsquo;ve been thinking of any of these 5 Money Saving Ideas as the reason you&rsquo;ll save money on your renovation or new home &hellip; or it being the reason you can actually afford your project, then listen to this episode now. Learn why these 5 Money Saving Ideas can actually be myths and cost you far more in time, money and stress.
Links mentioned in the podcast
<ul>
<li>This one will help you <a href="http://undercoverarchitect.com/what-does-a-project-manager-do/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">understand the role of a Project Manager</a></li>
<li>This one explains <a href="http://undercoverarchitect.com/get-an-agent-or-get-ready-to-fight/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">more about why you need a representative on site</a></li>
</ul>
This season, Undercover Architect has a podcast partner: Kiiko LED.
Kiiko LED is customisable, DIY, LED strip lighting, that you can order online to your specifications, for your needs and project.
Kiiko LED is founded by Craig Thomas, who Amelia has personally had the pleasure of working with for over 12 years now, in her own projects, and in client projects.
And so Amelia has been able to organise with Kiiko a fantastic UA Community only offer. If you head to their website at <a href="http://www.kiiko.com.au/undercoverarchitect" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">www.kiiko.com.au/undercoverarchitect</a> you&rsquo;ll be able to access a $25 discount to use on your first order.
Check it out, and start building your Kiiko LED strip lighting now!

In this episode, Amelia share why these 5 money saving tips are in fact MYTHS. Huge mistakes that can actually cost you far more in the long run.

5 Money Saving Myths Busted - Episode 3 (Season 3)

Often when you’re starting to think about your project, and trying to determine the budget you need to set aside for it, you don’t to have to many public conversations about it.

This is for a few reasons.

One might be that you just feel clueless. You don’t know who to start speaking to, or the questions to ask.

And in feeling like that, you may be worried that you’ll look foolish. Say something you’re not supposed to, or give professionals and builders information that gives away too much.

It may be too that you don’t want to give too much away too soon. Show your hand and then be at the mercy of trusting everyone to not be taking advantage of you.

Amelia knows that one thing that many homeowners she speaks to fear, is all the unknowns. And whenever you’re in that kind of territory, feeling out of your comfort zone, it’s can be a hard place to be. And to admit that you don’t really know what you’re doing whilst you’re there.

Amelia would like to say this to you, though, if this is how you are feeling.

You aren’t supposed to know what you’re doing – especially if this is the first time you’ve renovated or built your home.

However, you’re sitting at home, and you’re thinking this whole renovation and building thing through. You’ve watched The Block, and House Rules, and Fixer Upper. And you’re thinking, I just want to get a handle on budgets, and how much things cost, before I start bothering anyone, or feeling like I’m wasting anyone’s time.

So, how can you do it? Let Amelia give you some places to start.

Firstly, there’s online.

Here’s the links Amelia mentions in this episode:
Home Design Directory >>> https://www.homedesigndirectory.com.au/calculators/building-cost-estimates.php

All Australian Architecture Budget Calculator >>> https://www.aaarchitect.com.au/home-building-costing-calculator.html

Valuers’ cost estimate calculator >>> http://www.lmigroup.com/RiskCoach/Calculators/BuildingCalculator.aspx?access=adroit

Finder.com.au renovation calculators and cost guides >>> https://www.finder.com.au/renovation

Other resources are offline
Talking to those in the industry about current costs of building and renovating is of course, another resource available to you when beginning your project.

You may see that they refer to building and renovating costs as square metre rates.

Now, square metre rates can be a good place to start. And at least they’re somewhere to start, especially when you’re desperately trying to start somewhere! However, they also have their traps.

Listen to the episode now, as Amelia shares more about these resources, and what to be aware of when understanding costing and budgets in square metre rates.

This season, Undercover Architect has a podcast partner: Kiiko LED.

Kiiko LED is customisable, DIY, LED strip lighting, that you can order online to your specifications, for your needs and project.

Kiiko LED is founded by Craig Thomas, who Amelia personally had the pleasure of working with for over 12 years now, in her own projects, and in client projects.

And so she's been able to organise with Kiiko a fantastic UA Community only offer. If you head to their website at www.kiiko.com.au/undercoverarchitect you’ll be able to access a $25 discount to use on your first order.

Check it out, and start building your Kiiko LED strip lighting now!

Often when you&rsquo;re starting to think about your project, and trying to determine the budget you need to set aside for it, you don&rsquo;t to have to many public conversations about it.
This is for a few reasons.
One might be that you just feel clueless. You don&rsquo;t know who to start speaking to, or the questions to ask.
And in feeling like that, you may be worried that you&rsquo;ll look foolish. Say something you&rsquo;re not supposed to, or give professionals and builders information that gives away too much.
It may be too that you don&rsquo;t want to give too much away too soon. Show your hand and then be at the mercy of trusting everyone to not be taking advantage of you.
Amelia knows that one thing that many homeowners she speaks to fear, is all the unknowns. And whenever you&rsquo;re in that kind of territory, feeling out of your comfort zone, it&rsquo;s can be a hard place to be. And to admit that you don&rsquo;t really know what you&rsquo;re doing whilst you&rsquo;re there.
Amelia would like to say this to you, though, if this is how you are feeling.
You aren&rsquo;t supposed to know what you&rsquo;re doing &ndash; especially if this is the first time you&rsquo;ve renovated or built your home.
However, you&rsquo;re sitting at home, and you&rsquo;re thinking this whole renovation and building thing through. You&rsquo;ve watched The Block, and House Rules, and Fixer Upper. And you&rsquo;re thinking, I just want to get a handle on budgets, and how much things cost, before I start bothering anyone, or feeling like I&rsquo;m wasting anyone&rsquo;s time.
So, how can you do it? Let Amelia give you some places to start.
Firstly, there&rsquo;s online.
Here&rsquo;s the links Amelia mentions in this episode: Home Design Directory &gt;&gt;&gt; <a href="https://www.homedesigndirectory.com.au/calculators/building-cost-estimates.php" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.homedesigndirectory.com.au/calculators/building-cost-estimates.php</a>
All Australian Architecture Budget Calculator &gt;&gt;&gt; <a href="https://www.aaarchitect.com.au/home-building-costing-calculator.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.aaarchitect.com.au/home-building-costing-calculator.html</a>
Valuers&rsquo; cost estimate calculator &gt;&gt;&gt; <a href="http://www.lmigroup.com/RiskCoach/Calculators/BuildingCalculator.aspx?access=adroit" target="_blank" rel="noopener">http://www.lmigroup.com/RiskCoach/Calculators/BuildingCalculator.aspx?access=adroit</a>
Finder.com.au renovation calculators and cost guides &gt;&gt;&gt; <a href="https://www.finder.com.au/renovation" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.finder.com.au/renovation</a>
Other resources are offline Talking to those in the industry about current costs of building and renovating is of course, another resource available to you when beginning your project.
You may see that they refer to building and renovating costs as square metre rates.
Now, square metre rates can be a good place to start. And at least they&rsquo;re somewhere to start, especially when you&rsquo;re desperately trying to start somewhere! However, they also have their traps.
Listen to the episode now, as Amelia shares more about these resources, and what to be aware of when understanding costing and budgets in square metre rates.
This season, Undercover Architect has a podcast partner: Kiiko LED.
Kiiko LED is customisable, DIY, LED strip lighting, that you can order online to your specifications, for your needs and project.
Kiiko LED is founded by Craig Thomas, who Amelia personally had the pleasure of working with for over 12 years now, in her own projects, and in client projects.
And so she's been able to organise with Kiiko a fantastic UA Community only offer. If you head to their website at <a href="http://www.kiiko.com.au/undercoverarchitect" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.kiiko.com.au/undercoverarchitect</a> you&rsquo;ll be able to access a $25 discount to use on your first order.
Check it out, and start building your Kiiko LED strip lighting now!

When you first start thinking about a budget for your renovation, you'll need some resources. Amelia the Undercover Architect directs you to where you can find great information, both online and offline.

Resources you can use - Episode 2 (Season 3)

Finding out what your renovation or new home will cost you is not a one-step exercise. In fact, in Amelia's experience, the best results come from approaching this question from various angles.  

When you work out what your project will cost you in a more holistic way, using several inputs and types of information, you ultimately come up with a much more reliable answer. And can be more confident your project will stay on budget, PLUS create a great outcome for you as a finished home. 

So, what does Amelia mean by this?  

Over the course of this season, Amelia will be taking you through various strategies you can use to determine what your renovation or new home will cost. And what to do when it’s looking like it will cost more than you want to spend. What information to trust, and what not to. And how to stay informed and involved throughout. Because staying on top of your budget is one key factor to staying in control of your project overall.   

So let’s start at the beginning. Where do you start when determining your budget? What are the first steps you can take when trying to work out what it WILL cost you to renovate or build your home. Or more to the point – what it COULD cost you and what it SHOULD cost you.  

Amelia thinks that’s the key … we’re really looking at three costs here when it comes to setting your budget.
What it COULD cost you. 
What it SHOULD cost you. 
And what it WILL cost you. 

And each of those three figures might be entirely different from each other, and also impacted by many other factors.  

In this episode, Amelia gives you tips to get started on determining each of these ‘costs’. And she also talks about cost vs value, and how you can use it to gain great clarity for your project. 

Listen to the episode now, and learn where to start when determining your budget for your renovation or new build. It’s an important first step in any project starting well.  

This season, Undercover Architect has a podcast partner: Kiiko LED. 

Kiiko LED is customisable, DIY, LED strip lighting, that you can order online to your specifications, for your needs and project. 

Kiiko LED is founded by Craig Thomas, who Amelia personally had the pleasure of working with for over 12 years now, in her own projects, and in client projects.  

And so Amelia has been able to organise with Kiiko a fantastic UA Community only offer. If you head to their website at www.kiiko.com.au/undercoverarchitect you’ll be able to access a $25 discount to use on your first order.  

Check it out, and start building your Kiiko LED strip lighting now! 

 

Finding out what your renovation or new home will cost you is not a one-step exercise. In fact, in Amelia's experience, the best results come from approaching this question from various angles.&nbsp;&nbsp;
When you work out what your project will cost you in a more holistic way, using several inputs and types of information, you ultimately come up with a much more reliable answer. And can be more confident your project will stay on budget, PLUS create a great outcome for you as a finished home.&nbsp;
So, what does Amelia mean by this?&nbsp;&nbsp;
Over the course of this season, Amelia will be taking you through various strategies you can use to determine what your renovation or new home will cost. And what to do when it&rsquo;s looking like it will cost more than you want to spend. What information to trust, and what not to. And how to stay informed and involved throughout. Because staying on top of your budget is one key factor to staying in control of your project overall.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
So let&rsquo;s start at the beginning. Where do you start when determining your budget? What are the first steps you can take when trying to work out what it WILL cost you to renovate or build your home. Or more to the point &ndash; what it COULD cost you and what it SHOULD cost you.&nbsp;&nbsp;
Amelia thinks that&rsquo;s the key &hellip; we&rsquo;re really looking at three costs here when it comes to setting your budget.
<ol>
<li>What it COULD cost you.&nbsp;</li>
<li>What it SHOULD cost you.&nbsp;</li>
<li>And what it WILL cost you.&nbsp;</li>
</ol>
And each of those three figures might be entirely different from each other, and also impacted by many other factors.&nbsp;&nbsp;
In this episode, Amelia gives you tips to get started on determining each of these &lsquo;costs&rsquo;. And she also talks about cost vs value, and how you can use it to gain great clarity for your project.&nbsp;
Listen to the episode now, and learn where to start when determining your budget for your renovation or new build. It&rsquo;s an important first step in any project starting well.&nbsp;&nbsp;
This season, Undercover Architect has a podcast partner: Kiiko LED.&nbsp;
Kiiko LED is customisable, DIY, LED strip lighting, that you can order online to your specifications, for your needs and project.&nbsp;
Kiiko LED is founded by Craig Thomas, who Amelia personally had the pleasure of working with for over 12 years now, in her own projects, and in client projects.&nbsp;&nbsp;
And so Amelia has been able to organise with Kiiko a fantastic UA Community only offer. If you head to their website at <a href="http://www.kiiko.com.au/undercoverarchitect">www.kiiko.com.au/undercoverarchitect</a> you&rsquo;ll be able to access a $25 discount to use on your first order.&nbsp;&nbsp;
Check it out, and start building your Kiiko LED strip lighting now!&nbsp;
&nbsp;

In this episode, Amelia gives you tips to get started on determining your budget. And she also talks about cost vs value, and how you can use it to gain great clarity for your project.

Where to start - Episode 1 (Season 3)

New home or renovation on the cards?  Chances are you’re worried about what it will cost, if you can afford it, and how you’ll avoid a budget blowout.  You’re also probably nervous about how much time it will take and how it’s going to fit into your already busy life. And obviously you don’t want to stuff it all up, and end up with a home you wish you did differently.

Enter your architectural fairy godmother, Amelia Lee. Amelia is an architect with over 20 years industry experience. She’s also a wife, a mum to 3 young kids, and a serial renovator, and she’s here to share the nitty gritty details of how to create a home that feels great, and that you feel great in. From understanding the cost of renovating and building, to insider know-how and step-by-step advice … Undercover Architect is your secret ally.

Learn how to create a home that makes your life better. Whoever you’re working with, and whatever your dreams, your location or your budget. Head to www.undercoverarchitect.com for lots more.

The podcast all about designing, building and renovating your home. Hosted by Amelia Lee, the Undercover Architect.

Get It Right with Undercover Architect

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