Setting a clear budget is the first and most important step in any renovation. Without one, it's easy to overspend, delay completion, or compromise on the finish. A well- planned budget helps you:

- Stay in control of costs

- Prioritise where your money goes

- Avoid surprises and hidden expenses

📌 STEP 1: DEFINE YOUR RENOVATION GOALS

Ask yourself:

- What areas of the home do I want to renovate? (kitchen, bathroom, deck, full home,

etc.)

- What problems am I trying to solve? (space, outdated features, energy efficiency)

- Is this renovation for lifestyle, resale value, or both?

Your goals will shape the scale—and therefore the cost—of your project.

💸 STEP 2: UNDERSTAND TYPICAL RENOVATION COSTS

Every project is different, but here are general cost ranges in NZ (as of 2025):

- Kitchen Renovation: $30,000–$70,000

- Bathroom Renovation: $25,000–$50,000

- Deck or Outdoor Area: $10,000–$40,000

- House Extension: $3,500–$5,000/m²

- Full Home Renovation: $150,000+

Note: Prices vary based on materials, size, and location.

📊 STEP 3: BREAK IT DOWN

Create a line-item estimate to break the budget into parts:

- Design + drawings: $1,000–$10,000

- Building consent fees: $2,000–$5,000

- Demolition & prep

- Building materials

- Trades (plumber, electrician, builder)

- Fixtures & fittings

- Painting & finishing

- Contingency (see next step)

🚨 STEP 4: ADD A CONTINGENCY BUFFER

Always add 10–20% extra to cover unexpected costs (e.g. hidden water damage, structural changes, price fluctuations).

Example:

If your estimated budget is $80,000, set aside an extra $8,000–$16,000 just in case. This helps keep your project stress-free.

🤝 STEP 5: TALK TO A PROFESSIONAL EARLY

A reputable renovation builder (like us!) will help:

- Price your project based on real-world experience

- Suggest cost-saving ideas

- Prioritise based on your goals and budget

Tip: Avoid going too far into design without knowing your budget range first.

✅ STEP 6: MAKE DECISIONS EARLY

Late changes are costly. Lock in:

- Layout and design- Fixtures and finishes

- Appliances and fittings

The more decisions made upfront, the better you can stick to budget.

📈 STEP 7: TRACK YOUR SPENDING

Keep a simple spreadsheet (or use budgeting apps) to track invoices, deposits, and

variations.

💡 BONUS TIPS

- Focus on high-impact areas (kitchen, bathroom, living)

- Get multiple quotes, but remember: cheapest isn’t always best

- Don’t forget GST and council fees

📞 NEED HELP PLANNING YOUR BUDGET?

At McKay Brothers Renovations, we help clients turn their renovation ideas into real-world budgets that make sense.

✅ Transparent pricing

✅ Realistic quotes

✅ Stress-free building process