KDM Homes

Keeping a renovation financially on track starts long before construction begins.

From detailed planning and early selections to clear communication around variations, we focus on helping our clients feel informed and supported throughout the entire process.

A good build is not just about the final outcome, it’s about feeling confident, calm and excited throughout the experience that matters too.

Here are four ways that we protect your budget at KDM Homes:

1. Detailed planning upfront
We spend a lot of time during pre-construction refining scopes, reviewing plans and discussing selections before construction starts. The more clarity there is early on, the less room there is for unexpected costs later.

2. Encouraging selections early
Many budget issues happen when selections are left until mid-construction. Choosing items earlier helps avoid delays, rushed decisions and costly changes once works are already underway.

3. Exploring alternatives when needed
If something comes back over budget, we don’t just push ahead and hope for the best. We work with clients to find practical alternatives that still achieve the overall look and function they want.

4. Communicating variations before they happen
Clear communication matters. If something changes during the build, we discuss it with clients before moving forward so there are no surprises later.

At the end of the day, renovations are a collaborative process and our goal is always to help clients make informed decisions while keeping the project as financially manageable as possible.

If you’re ready to renovate or build, but are worried about keeping your budget in line, reach out to us today and let’s have a chat! Head to the link in our bio and complete our enquiry form today!

The designs are finalised, the selections are chosen and you’re ready to move to contract! So what’s the hold up? Well, before we can lock in a start date for construction, there are a few important things we need finalised first.

These steps are about protecting you, your home and your project before work begins.

1. Land Title
We need a copy of the property land title to confirm ownership and ensure we have the authority to carry out works at the site address.

2. Lending Authority
If your project is being financed, we need to know who the lender is so we can coordinate any required paperwork and progress payment processes throughout the build.

3. Home Insurance
This one might come as a surprise, but some home insurance policies do not cover homes during renovations over a certain value. That can include things like fire, storm damage or theft unrelated to the building works themselves.

KDM Homes carries contract works insurance and public liability insurance covering any damages caused by us during construction.

But we still recommend every client checks with their insurer to make sure their existing home is covered throughout the renovation period.

If it is not, we can help organise additional cover through our construction insurer before works begin.

We know the admin side of building can feel overwhelming sometimes, especially if you have never renovated before.

That is why we guide clients through every step so there are no surprises later on.

Thinking about renovating or building? Get in touch via the link in our bio to chat about your project.

Sneak peak at our work in progress… 🛁

A few snippets from one of our current bathroom renovations and it’s safe to say this space is already coming together beautifully.

There’s a lot happening behind the scenes to make sure everything is done properly the first time. We can't wait to show you the finished result on this one.

Thinking about renovating your bathroom? Get in touch via the link in our bio to chat about your project ideas.

When looking at long-term ways to cut costs, one of best things you can look into is insulation.

If you are renovating and the walls, ceilings or floors are already open, that is the best time to install proper insulation.

Everything is already accessible and if you try to do it later, you are paying again to open everything up, which adds a lot more cost.

For a standard 4 bedroom home, full insulation can sit around 10k to 14k when done during a renovation. That includes ceiling, walls and underfloor.

If you try to do the same thing after the renovation is finished, you are now paying for:

- Cutting into plaster walls
- Removing sections of ceilings or flooring
- Reinstating plaster, paint, finishes
- Labour to work around a completed home

In most cases, that can push the cost well beyond 20k, and sometimes higher depending on access and how much needs to be redone.

When insulation is done properly, it is not just about comfort, it can also significantly reduce your energy bills.

In Melbourne, where winters are colder, insulation can reduce heating and cooling costs by around 30 to 45%. Even on the lower end, that can still mean saving roughly $600 to $1,100 dollars per year depending on your home.

Over time, it pays for itself and then continues saving you money long after. It is one of those decisions that is easy to skip in the moment, but makes a big difference long term.

If you are planning a renovation and want help making smart decisions with your budget, follow along for more budgeting and building tips.

Sharing a few kind words from our clients…

It’s been a pleasure to work with you, and thank you for the feedback and for trusting us with your homes! 🏠🔨