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Home Improvement

Top tips for renovating a derelict property

Buying a property in tip-top condition may not be a possibility for everyone. Instead, opting for a house that needs completely gutting and renovating may be a great alternative. Demolition London companies can be found by doing some basic research and checking references carefully. If you intend on renovating a dilapidated or derelict property this year, then we have some simple tips and inspiration for you.

Decide how much you can take on

One of the first things to consider is how much of a project you can realistically undertake. Biting off more than you can chew, could land you in hot water when it comes to your finances and the amount of time that you can dedicate to such a huge commitment. If you work full-time, you will need to be sure that your hours will work around the renovations. If you can’t take on the work yourself, then perhaps hiring a project manager may be another suggestion. You would certainly need to factor in costs vs time management benefits when planning this.

Where to find the perfect property?

The next step is finding the perfect property. Building a good working relationship with your local estate agents is a fantastic way to ensure that you are always first to see the new additions to their listings. You could also set up alerts and searches on the top property search engines. You may find yourself having to bid for certain properties and buildings in a live auction if there are considered highly desirable. Be sure to stick to your budget and don’t be tempted to place a high bid at the spur of the moment. If you have your eye on a specific property, it may also be worth enquiring directly as to whether the current owners would sell up.

Hire the relevant professionals

Remember that you won’t be able to do all the work alone. You will undoubtedly need to hire professional tradespeople to assist with any work that you don’t have the necessary training in. Electricians, plumbers, carpenters, and demolition companies are all likely to be needed at some point during any major renovation project. Always ask to see the companies previous work and ensure that they can provide you with references and quotes ahead of time. Avoid using smaller businesses from Facebook Marketplace and opt for companies with a proven track record of high-quality work and reliability. Getting this right, from day one, will mean less hassle down the line.

Restoring and preserving original features

Lastly, it is important to preserve some of the original features of a property where possible. This might include things such as garden structures, interior decor, fireplaces, and tiling. Checking to see what is salvageable before you start the demolition work may also save you money. Be sure to search for unique period features as these can be sold if they aren’t to your taste.