Anything worth doing takes effort, and while renovating your home is a big undertaking, it’s also hugely rewarding to see your vision come to life.
Be it a bathroom update or a pool and outdoor entertaining area, you want it done right the first time. And regardless of whether you’re a seasoned renovator or a first timer, you can’t just go it alone. That’s where Witzer comes in to help you project manage like a pro. It’s an app that’s been purpose designed and built to guide you through the entire project management process, from inspiration and planning to payment— all from the palm of your hand.
With the right tools and a solid plan in place, you can set yourself up for success. Here are five practical steps to turn your renovation vision into reality, and a few helpful tech tips to help you stress less in the process.
1. Identify the purpose of your renovation
Identifying the purpose of your renovation is the first step. What are you hoping to achieve? Do you need more space for a growing family? Is your property tired and in need of an update? Or are you hoping to add value for a future sale?
While all of the above may be true, clarifying your goals will help you prioritise and decide on what’s non-negotiable (such as a family-friendly bathroom and a modern kitchen) compared to the nice-to-haves (like that home cinema setup you’ve been eyeing off).
2. Do your homework and sort your finances
Once you have your priorities in order it’s time to plan your project and get your finances organised. This is arguably the most important step because it can be the difference between a reno that’s completed on time, and one that blows out both your budget and your timeline.
Do your homework on your proposed costs: Get quotes for materials, permits, and also for your team of tradies to refine your budget. Then you can decide on a realistic budget that takes both your materials and labour into consideration. As a rule of thumb, it’s a good idea to allocate a buffer of 10-15 percent for any contingencies.
You can request a quote from a tradie via the Witzer app. Simply invite a tradie or professional to review your draft project and create a quote and when your draft project is ready, send it to your tradie. Once you’re ready, you can accept the quote and get your project underway.
Also work out how and when you want to pay your tradies. That way you can be upfront and transparent in your initial conversations, so everyone knows when, and how, they’ll be paid. Witzer also has a feature that lets you deposit and securely hold funds in your Witzer wallet so you can pay your tradies in instalments, or when the job’s completed to everyone’s satisfaction.
3. Design your vision to share with your team
Depending on the scope and style of your renovation, you’ll need a detailed set of plans for everyone to work to. You can work with a designer or architect, but while you’re in the early stages you can use Witzer to map out the layout, measurements, and materials for quoting purposes. Simply add a room, measure out the area and upload your images. This will help you get the most accurate quotes and lock in your team.
Always ensure your final plans are done professionally, and ensure you check your local regulations to ensure compliance and obtain necessary permits.
4. Project manage like a pro
Purchase your materials ahead of time to avoid delays and stay in regular contact with your team to address any delivery or site issues promptly. When you’re ready to get the ball rolling, set a realistic schedule with your team and set milestones so you can check in and track your progress.
You can manage on the go from wherever you are with Witzer, as it lets you keep an eye on your timelines, upload and view documents and images for your project, streamlining your admin and keeping the lines of communication open for everyone.
5. Do your final checks and enjoy the finished product
Always do a final walk through with your tradies to ensure everything is finished to your expectations. This gives you and your team the chance to address any final details or fixes can be addressed, such as painting and window clean-ups, bathroom and electrical fittings.
Once those last jobs are done, all that’s left to do is add your own finishing touches such as decorative items and furnishings to bring your vision to life. Pop the bubbles, enjoy your transformed space and pat yourself on the back for a renovation well done.
Witzer is here to simplify project management for home renovators and tradies. By ensuring clear and transparent communication among all parties and securing all payments, Witzer lets you project manage like a pro – because everyone wants a great result.
