by Renovations | Nov 8, 2023 | blog, Renovations
Your home is not merely a place; it embodies your personality, style, and aspirations. As time goes by, your preferences and needs can evolve, leaving you yearning for a space that authentically mirrors your dream home. This is where renovation contractors come into the picture, as the experts who can turn your existing house into the dream home you’ve always envisioned. Bringing Your Vision to Life Renovation contractors excel at taking your dreams and making them a concrete reality. They possess the expertise and experience to transform your ideas into a well-crafted plan, from the initial concept and design to execution. Collaborating closely with you, they ensure that your vision materializes by assisting you in selecting the ideal materials, layout, and finishes, whether it’s for home extensions, exterior improvements, or kitchen and bathroom renovations. Tailoring Every Detail The most significant advantage of working with renovation contractors is the unmatched level of customization they offer. Unlike the prospect of purchasing a new home, renovating your existing one allows you to personalize every aspect according to your preferences. Whether it’s enhancing your kitchen, revamping your bathroom, optimizing your living spaces, or incorporating stunning exterior and landscaping features, a renovation contractor can adapt the design to align perfectly with your distinctive style and requirements. Maximizing Your Space If you feel that your home lacks space or isn’t being utilised to its full potential, renovation contractors provide an ideal solution. They specialize in optimizing available space. Whether it’s reconfiguring layouts, adding home extensions, or converting underutilized areas, they ensure your living space becomes more functional and comfortable. This holds...
by Renovations | Oct 23, 2023 | About Renovations, Home Renovations, Kitchen Renovations, Renovations
I get asked almost daily by clients, friends and business colleagues if NOW is a good time to renovate their property. It’s a fair question, and one that doesn’t have a straightforward answer where one size fits all. The reason they are asking me is because our company MTP has renovated hundreds of properties in the Bay of Plenty and down the central North Island area along with many other areas of New Zealand in the last 15 years, and they want access to my inside knowledge and experience. So I’m going to share with you some of that knowledge gleaned from those many kitchens, bathrooms, house extensions, and other renovations we have completed. Before: After: There is always an upside to renovating at a certain time, and I want to focus on those positives before we cover some of the not so positive points later in this article so you can make an informed decision for yourself. Let’s start with the cost of materials. During Covid we saw materials increase at unsustainable cost levels and at an intense pace which made it extremely difficult for builders to fix price projects for clients. This has changed and now prices are steady. Increases are still happening but at a much slower rate and less often, meaning your price should not increase much after you sign your contract. Materials shortages are also a thing of the past and projects can be planned and delivered to a measurable and achievable timeframe for clients, further reducing the risk of increased costs if you are for instance living in alternative accommodation whilst your...
by Renovations | Oct 9, 2023 | In The News
Have you ever wondered if the effort and money invested in renovating a property would truly pay off? Mark Trafford, a property trader in Auckland, and one of the Managing Directors of MTP Renovations, decided to take the plunge when he came across a three-bedroom home on Aeroview Drive, Beach Haven. This property had been struggling to find a buyer for eight long months, primarily due to structural and maintenance issues. However, Mark saw potential where others saw problems, and what happened next is a testament to the belief that renovating is worth every cent. A Property in Despair When he first laid eyes on the house on Aeroview Drive, it had already faced numerous setbacks in the real estate market. Multiple contracts had fallen through, and potential buyers were deterred by the property’s structural concerns, including cladding and a retaining wall issue. Additionally, stringent bank finance requirements made it difficult for first-time homebuyers to secure financing for the property. The house had experienced several price drops, but Mark believed he could turn it around. He purchased the property for $600,000 in cash and embarked on a renovation journey that would ultimately change its destiny. A Transformation Worthy of Investment Mark’s company, MTP Renovations and Maintenance, took on the challenge of transforming the neglected property. With an additional investment of $120,000, they addressed the property maintenance issues, kitchen renovation, and bathroom renovation, laid new flooring, and revitalized both the interiors and exteriors. The house was given a fresh lease on life, and its value began to soar. One of the key advantages of the Aeroview Drive project was...
by Renovations | Oct 2, 2023 | Home Renovations
When it comes to selling your home, first impressions are everything. Often, the key to getting top dollar for your property lies in making strategic renovations that boost its market value. However, not all renovations are created equal, and to maximize your return on investment (ROI), you need the right contractor by your side. Renovation Contractor The Importance of Renovating for Resale Embarking on home renovations before listing your property offers numerous advantages: Increased Market Value: Skillfully executed renovations can substantially boost your home’s market worth, enabling you to command a more substantial selling price. Expedited Sale: Upgraded homes typically sell more swiftly than those requiring extensive repairs or updates, thus reducing the time your property languishes on the market. Attracting a Wider Audience: A renovated home holds broader appeal for a diverse pool of potential buyers, enhancing your likelihood of swiftly finding the right buyer. Competitive Edge: Renovations can give your property a competitive edge in a crowded real estate market, making it stand out among other listings. The Crucial Role of the Right Contractor When engaging in the process of renovating for resale, the choice of the contractor assumes paramount importance for several reasons: Expertise: Seasoned contractors possess a profound understanding of the local real estate landscape, enabling them to recommend renovations that yield the highest ROI in your particular locale. Craftsmanship: A reputable contractor ensures that renovations are executed to exacting standards, thereby mitigating the risk of issues that could dissuade buyers or impede negotiations during the sale process. Cost-efficiency: The right contractor can help you make cost-effective financial decisions, ensuring that your budget...
by Renovations | Aug 30, 2023 | Auckland City East, Bathroom Renovations, Home Renovations, Kitchen Renovations
Until the severe weather events that hit Auckland earlier in 2023, this beautiful 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom brick-and-tile standalone townhouse in Epsom had stood the test of time. However, like thousands of Auckland homes, the property suffered serious flooding on one occasion as the council drains, without maintenance, couldn’t cope with the torrents of water. The result was devastating for the owners, who couldn’t deal with a very stressful situation. Our clients purchased the property in an as-is where it is in condition and set about turning this house into the once beautiful home it was again. Before After Engaging the services of Dean and his MTP North Shore sub-contract team to ensure the process ran smoothly and within their agreed budget and timeframe, preparing the property for resale. Having had significant experience dealing with the council and the sticker system used to define damage and repairs required to each individual property, Dean soon had the sticker removed by the council and had his tradies in full swing. There is a strict process for reinstating flood-damaged houses, including using qualified LBP builders and registered trades where required. Each step needs to keep records and photos as evidence that all has been completed correctly and according to the current building code. Before After Fast forward 8 weeks, and the property is completely renovated to a very high standard and ready for the market. With a 3-week auction campaign and over 60 groups through the open homes, this property looks well set to sell and make its owners a good profit. Onwards and upwards to the next project for the owners who continue...
by Renovations | Aug 24, 2023 | North Shore
51A Aeroview Road Beachaven Project Before After Our clients purchased this property that had been on the market for several months and had failed a building inspection report on numerous issues, including exterior leaks through the decks into the house. The property was cold and damp and very uninviting. With the help of Dean and the MTP North Shore team, they set about tackling the multitude of issues on the building report ensuring all work was carried out by an LBP builder to a high standard. The property also benefited from a total interior renovation, including a new bathroom, toilet, kitchen, laundry, paint, and flooring, including carpet and vinyl planking in the service areas. Having a skilled set of sub-trades that work together daily on numerous projects meant that any minor problems encountered were easily overcome, and the project could stay on track regarding budget and the timeframe to completion. The value of the total project management of the entire project through Dean and MTP meant the owners only needed to have input on design and colours, and the rest was taken care of in a professional and timely manner. Eight weeks later, the property was completed, and what a transformation; what was a tired and unattractive house was now a warm, lovely home that oozed charm and character with all the mod cons you expect from a complete renovation. The property was listed for sale with an anticipated 3-week auction campaign; however, within 24 hours, the owners had a cash unconditional offer that far exceeded their expectations, and the property was sold. The...
by Renovations | Aug 21, 2023 | Renovations
Maximising Your Kitchen’s Efficiency Through Renovation The kitchen is the heart of the home, where meals are prepared, conversations about everyone’s day are shared, and memories are made. However, if your kitchen could be more organised, it can turn even the most uncomplicated cooking of meals frustrating. A well-planned kitchen renovation can transform your space into a highly functional and organised one. Check Your Current Layout Take a careful look at your current kitchen layout. Identify the pain points, such as tricky corners, lack of counter space, or insufficient storage. Think about how you use the kitchen on a daily basis and where improvements can be made. This assessment will serve as the starting point of your renovation plan. Prioritising Workflow A logical workflow is where the efficiency in the kitchen relies, often referred to as the “kitchen work triangle”. This connects the most commonly used areas of the stove, refrigerator, and sink. During your renovation process, it’s best to ensure these appliances are positioned around each other. Optimising Storage Solution Clutter can quickly hinder efficiency. Include intelligent storage solutions in your renovation to keep you organised and accessible. Choosing Functional Materials and Appliances Choose materials and appliances that are both charming and functional. Countertops should be durable and easy to clean. Consider investing in energy-efficient appliances that save you costs and contribute to being more eco-friendly Lighting Matters Proper lighting is a must for an efficient kitchen. During the renovation, check your lighting setup and make needed improvements. Include a mix of ambient, task, and accent lighting to make sure every corner is well-brightened. Including Multipurpose Areas...
by Renovations | Jul 27, 2023 | About Renovations
Whether planning a complete kitchen renovation or just looking for simple upgrades, our expert team is here to guide you through every step of the process. The Planning Stage Before starting any renovation project, proper planning is crucial. Here are the essential steps to create a comprehensive kitchen renovation plan, from setting a budget and knowing your needs to choosing the suitable layout and appliances. Kitchen Trendy Designs Stay ahead with our insights into the latest kitchen design trends. Find the popular colour themes, materials, and finishes that can elevate your kitchen’s aesthetic appeal while ensuring it remains timeless. Maximising Storage and Organisation An organised kitchen is a joyful place to work in. Learn more about intelligent storage solutions and innovative organisation ideas that can help you make the most of the space in your kitchen. These tips will keep your kitchen clutter-free and structured, from pull-out pantry cabinets to clever drawer dividers. Countertop Selection Choosing the correct countertops and backsplash can significantly change the kitchen’s overall look. We’ll explore materials like quartz, marble, granite, and more. Alongside these are the pros and cons of each. In addition, discover how to mix and match different elements to create an impressive visual effect. Flooring options From classic hardwood to modern tiles, the flooring you choose can impact your kitchen’s designs and use. Our tips will help you explore different flooring options, their fitness for kitchen spaces, and property maintenance tips to keep them looking natural. Lighting Strategies Proper lighting is a must for any kitchen. It’s great to have ambient lighting to create a warm and inviting atmosphere in the...
by | May 2, 2023 | Bathroom Renovations
Are you planning a bathroom renovation? It’s an exciting project that can breathe new life into your home, but it also requires a lot of planning and coordination. One of the biggest challenges of a bathroom renovation is managing all the different contractors that are involved. From plumbers to electricians, each trade has its own set of skills that are essential for a successful renovation. In this blog, we’ll explore how many contractors you need and how to manage them effectively. The number of contractors you need will depend on the scope of your renovation project. For a basic renovation, you may only need a few tradespeople, such as a plumber and a tiler. However, for a larger project that involves major structural changes or additions, you may need to hire more contractors. Here is a list of tradespeople that may be required for a bathroom renovation: Plumber: This is perhaps the most important tradesperson you will need for your bathroom renovation. They will install and connect all the necessary pipes and fixtures, including the toilet, sink, shower, and bathtub. Electrician: An electrician will be responsible for installing and connecting all the necessary electrical components in your bathroom, such as lighting, power points, and exhaust fans. Tiler: A tiler will install your bathroom tiles, ensuring that they are laid out in a way that looks great and is functional. Carpenter: A carpenter will help with the installation of any cabinetry, such as vanities or storage units. Painter: A painter will put the finishing touches on your bathroom by painting the walls and any other surfaces that require a fresh...
by Renovations | Mar 25, 2023 | About Renovations
Whether you are looking at buying or selling a property, timing is everything! New Zealand’s economy is fast paced and very responsive to international markets and events. We just experienced a recent market boom which saw pro’s and cons depending on which end of the spectrum you were. If you sold a property you had prior to the boom, you would have done well but if you purchased an investment property during the boom, then you would know now is not the right time sell if you are looking to make a profit. If you are budgeting for a renovation, then similarly, Timing is everything! How do I know it’s the right time to renovate? This is a very important question to ask depending on the reason you are renovating. This blog focuses on life style improvement renovations. In other words, non-urgent renovations that can be done when it suits you. This gives you enough time to plan, budget and execute at your own pace. We from MTP / Based in Auckland Renovations NZ recommend that you: Observe markets carefully as far as > Material costs > demand and supply How busy are builders indicating that if too busy the price per square meter will be higher than usual. Many companies over price because they cant do the work Make sure you get references. Busy builders tend to cut corners or try to juggle multiple sites at the sam time at the consumers cost. Ensure the scope and cost and clearly outlined. Don’t commit to open ended contracts. We from MTP renovations can offer the following services during any...
