And still create a home you love! Renovating on a budget does not mean choosing the cheapest option for every part of your home. It means knowing where to spend, where to save and how to make each choice work for your family. We chatted to the specialists at DuoQS, who shared their practical tips…
Updated for 2026: This guide has been refreshed to reflect how homeowners are hiring trades today — including clearer checks, digital footprint tips and the small but important things we’re seeing renovators overlook. The fundamentals haven’t changed (there have always been cowboys!), but the way we verify, brief and manage trades has evolved. Starting a…
How to choose the right certifier for your build… If you’re planning to renovate, extend, or build a home in Sydney, one of the first hurdles you’ll encounter is choosing between a private certifier or your local council certifier for approvals. It’s a decision that can influence the cost, timeline, and even your stress levels…
You’ve spent months refining the perfect design for your new home or renovation – working with Architects, selecting materials, and ensuring every detail reflects your vision. But before construction begins, one crucial step will determine your project’s success: understanding the true potential cost of your build. Many homeowners assume that getting multiple quotes is enough…
Sustainable homes have come a long way, becoming more than just a trend. They’re a smart, forward-thinking choice for people who want to live comfortably while making a positive impact on the environment. Sustainable homes combine energy-efficient technologies, eco-friendly materials, and smart design to use natural resources, like light and ventilation, to their fullest. This approach…
Imagine sitting down with your architect, planning to “sink” your home into a sloped lot so your living room opens up to a perfectly landscaped backyard. It looks great on paper. But nobody told you this would increase construction costs by more than 100 grand. A few weeks later, you get a quote from your builder…
Why You Should Not Rely On Free Quotes Embarking on a home renovation or new home build project is an exciting venture that requires careful planning and consideration. If you’re after a Fixed Price building contract, it’s crucial to obtain accurate building quotes to assess costs and select the right contractor. While free building quotes…
What’s the best approval pathway for my home renovation? When you are looking to build a new home or undertake a major renovation in Sydney, you are generally presented with two options for getting your plans approved: Development Application (DA) or Complying Development Certificate (CDC). While each option presents its own pros and cons, the…
So you’re thinking about renovating your home. I get it. It’s such an exciting experience. Not only does it allow you to personalise your living space, but it also increases the value of your property. Now that’s just living the dream! But that home renovation dream can quickly turn into a nightmare. In fact, there…
Been busy dreaming of your renovation during lockdown? Maybe you’ve been dreaming of that perfect new kitchen or bathroom, or perhaps an extension to your home that you’ve been planning for years? The Covid-19 pandemic has most certainly made renovations difficult for homeowners and investors alike. But as they are beginning to lift, now is…