facebook logo Heat coming out of building costs - Loan Base | Your Finance Specialists | Loan Base
BuildingCosts 1024x682

Heat coming out of building costs



The rising cost of building materials is slowing, which is great news for owners planning to renovate and buyers looking to find fixer-uppers at a bargain price.

The pace of inflation and scarcity of building materials has seen many renovators and property bargain hunters back off for fear they could get caught up in a spiral of ever-increasing costs.

Construction costs moved only 1.9% in the December quarter, according to the latest data from CoreLogic’s Cordell Construction Cost Index. In the previous September quarter, prices had surged almost 5%.

Most experts believe that the retreat of owners and buyers has caused a dampening effect on the prices quoted by builders which is now feeding through to material suppliers.

Their theory is supported by data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics, which found dwelling commencements fell 5.2% to 45,489 dwellings in September 2022.

If you’re considering renovating before sale, it’s probably a good idea to start making your move. It always takes several months to get plans through council, and you don’t want to get caught in the crush of owners with similar ambitions.

For those seeking a fixer-upper, we believe you’ll be able to act with greater confidence as you tally the cost of purchase and renovation against market value.

Below, we’ve listed seven fundamental tips to ensure you enjoy an effective renovation. 

Fit for purpose

While on the topic of building materials, don’t forget that conditions can be especially harsh, so only buy timbers and metals suitable for our climate.

Good bones

Ensure your property or target purchase is not about to fall down. An independent building inspection is essential before starting a project. You want good electrics and plumbing, and avoid water damage and rising damp.

Run the numbers

This is not a perfect science, but you need to be confident the property’s value will exceed the purchase and renovation cost. If not, it could take you several years to break even.

Write is right

A thousand decisions must be made once a renovation begins, and losing track of your goals is easy. So, write down your aims and maintain a strict budget. That way, you’ll be able to stick to the vision and avoid compromises or mistakes.

Forget me not

Integrate landscaping into your plan. Don’t make it an afterthought because you want a natural flow between indoors and outside.

Where to start

Begin with the big-ticket items, such as the kitchen and bathrooms. These are the most complex areas and will likely suck up most of the budget.

Contingency fund

Leave yourself an extra 15% in your budget to handle unforeseen problems. If you don’t have to spend the money, happy days! But at least you know you’ve covered yourself for emergencies.

Contact us today to discuss your finance needs.

Speak to one of our experts

Speak to one of our experts now

1300 512 377

Request a free assessment

Want one of our experts to call you?

Disclaimer: The content of this article is general in nature and is presented for informative purposes. It is not intended to constitute financial advice, whether general or personal nor is it intended to imply any recommendation or opinion about a financial product. It does not take into consideration your personal situation and may not be relevant to circumstances. Before taking any action, consider your own particular circumstances and seek professional advice.


Why Choose Loan Base

  • We negotiate better rates
  • Access to over 40 lenders
  • Skilled with complex scenarios
  • Our service is free to you
Contact Us Today